An electric vehicle needs a special charging point that connects to the home’s current electricity supply for the best possible charge. Using the latest electric vehicle technology and direct current connections, this system provides fast and efficient charging without environmental impact.
As with any electrical work, don’t attempt any DIY at home. A qualified electrician is trained to install a point for correctly charging your vehicle, so you should always leave this to the experts. However, some manufacturers, and other businesses, are now taking extra training to help them install charging equipment.
Here are your options when installing an electric car charger:
1. Manufacturer Installation of Home Chargers
For many people, the most convenient way to install a home charging point is through the device’s manufacturer. Virtually every electric vehicle charging station manufacturer also provides a service to install that product. This is not included in the cost of the home charging station, but there are numerous advantages to adopting this approach. They include:
- An installation by a qualified electrician, plus one that has undergone additional training with the manufacturer to understand the specifics of the manufacturer’s charging station.
- Convenience in that the engineer brings the device to your site, ensuring that all cables and tools required for fast setup and testing are available.
- An experienced installer has worked on charging stations before, so they are familiar with any common issues involved with more complicated installations.
2. EV Charging Installation by an Independent Electrician
Independent electricians and manufacturers alike benefit from a new wave of education specifically for electric car charging. The growth of hybrid and electric cars has increased the number of people who want to install infrastructure for charging their vehicles, whether by charging stations, cables in their garages, or other options.
People considering installing a charging system using an independent electrician rather than a manufacturer-sponsored installer should look toward companies that have received this new training. When installing charging points, you will need training in earthing and bonding. Additionally, an electrician wishing to install a charging point must follow the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation. Regulations include these requirements.
3. Support and Advice From an Electricity Professional
When you work with a professional, you can skip attaching the home charger to the wall, turning it on, and testing it. The demand for electricians specialising in EV charging installation makes them experts in connecting wall plugs and electrical cables, along with software and programming that let your car charge at its maximum rate.
4. Claiming an OZEV Grant and Choosing an Installer
As touched on previously, there are several government schemes out there for individuals and businesses from the Office for Zero-Emission Vehicles (OZEV) that enable the installation of a home charger for electric cars. The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) is one such grant; it entitles successful applicants to a grant of up to £350 towards the costs of supply and charger installation at their home.
Conclusion
Professional installation comes with an additional cost, as labour is never free. However, it is a smart decision if you want to make your home or office future-proof for electric cars. That only applies when the installation is done correctly and by an electrical contractor who knows what they are doing.
Design Electrical is an electrical contractor based in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Established in 1998, we hold a certificate of recognition with the NICEIC electrical safety body, providing electrical contract services to domestic, commercial and industrial clients throughout the province. As specialists in the electric vehicle charging market, we can offer you the best solution for your charging needs. If you need help with EV charger installation in Belfast, we’ve got you covered! Get in touch with us now and let us know how we can help!