How Long Does it Take to Install an EV Charger?
So you just bought a shiny new electric car and are enjoying the benefits. Say goodbye to trips to the petrol station and hello to charging from home. Only your charger isn't up and running yet, and you're waiting for a professional to come and install it. You might be wondering, then, how does it all work?
More specifically, how long does it take to install an EV charger? That's the purpose of this guide, which looks at the average installation time for EV chargers and what else you need to know about home installation.
Is it easy to install an EV charger at home?
The answer depends on your setup, but most EV chargers are relatively straightforward to install. The entire process likely involves a professional attending to your home and setting up the charger, which will most likely be installed in your garage or on the driveway.
You'll need to have a Wi-Fi connection, and it's important that you're either the property owner or have permission from your landlord to install the EV charger. Lastly, you'll require off-street parking in the form of a driveway or garage. Or, you'll need a private parking space if you live in a block of flats.
Who will install my EV charger?
Installation should always be carried out by a qualified electrician, preferably one with experience installing EV chargers. EV charger installation is still a relatively new concept and may throw up the odd issue or two that needs to be dealt with by people who have experience with EV chargers. The charger manufacturer typically appoints the EV charger electrician, or they'll be independent, qualified professionals.
What will they install?
The charging unit is the only item installed; it'll either be tethered or untethered. Untethered chargers may also require an additional cable (if it's not supplied), and you'll need to choose the size depending on the car's distance from the charging point.
It's all actually relatively straightforward in terms of the kit needed. You'll have the charging point, a cable (which will be included if it's tethered) and your car. That's it. Once installed, the electrician will test all required electrical connections and protections before providing a certificate to show your installation meets the UK legal standards.
Is there anything I need to prepare?
You won't need to prepare anything other than ensuring the installer has the space to carry out the work. Still, for a quick and easy installation, make sure there's easy access to the area where the charging point will be installed.
If, for example, the power supply needs to go through certain rooms, it's best to move any obstacles. Having your phone ready is also good, as the installer will add the device to your Wi-Fi network when setting up the EV charger. So have things like the Wi-Fi password readily available to speed up the installation process.
How long does it take to install an EV charger?
Several variables dictate how long it takes to install an EV charger. If everything goes to plan and the installer doesn't need to perform unexpected tasks, the installation of your EV charger will normally take around two hours. However, it's best to allow for the work to take anywhere between two to six hours, just in case other factors come into play.
For instance, it may take the electrician longer to install the EV charger if it's a more complicated job than anticipated. This may involve issues around the position of the charger, the fuse board or other factors they hadn't previously accounted for. Hopefully, your EV charger installation will go off without a hitch. Still, it's best to prepare for all scenarios, such as any additional work needed to complete the installation.
Some other problems that can arise:
- Unable to install a charge point where the cable runs beyond the property boundaries or causes a tripping hazard
- Units must be fixed at a height where they won't be hit by vehicles but can't be installed higher than 1.8m
- Cables can't be suspended between building structures
- Installers can't work in crawl spaces, lofts, or on roofs if they're deemed unsafe
- Issues around electrical safety may delay the installation
- You may need to pay extra costs if additional cabling or protective items are required.
What is the installation process?
- The installer will likely confirm the agreed time to do the required job.
- Once they've arrived, the installer will work with you to determine the best location for the EV charger
- They'll begin the work of installing the EV charger, drilling necessary holes for cable and fixing the bracket to the wall
- Turn off electrics while they fix the EV charger to the desired position
- Turn the electrics back on and test the unit to ensure it's ready to charge your electric car
- Connect the charger to the Wi-Fi so you can manage it via the app
- The installer will spend some time with you detailing how everything works
- Talk you through how the app works, connect the charger to the vehicle and ensure you understand what all the different lights on the charging point mean.
- Provide details for customer support just in case you have any queries later down the line
- Give you a certificate stating installation meets the UK legal standards.
Summary: speedy installation
If all goes well, you can expect the installer to finish the job within just a couple of hours. At that point, your EV charger will be connected and ready to go so you can charge your car when it suits you, ensuring that there's a fully-charged battery ready whenever you need it.
Still trying to decide on your EV home charger? Read our guide to the best home EV Charger here:
The Referr Team
