The Complete Guide to EV Charger Installation in the UK
Everything you need to know about getting an EV charger installed at home, from choosing the right charger to finding an installer and understanding the process.
Why Install a Home EV Charger?
While you can charge your electric vehicle using a standard 3-pin plug, a dedicated home charger offers significant advantages. A 7kW home charger can fully charge most EVs overnight, compared to 12+ hours with a standard socket. Home charging is also safer, more convenient, and typically costs less than using public chargers.
Choosing the Right Charger
Most UK homes can support a 7kW charger, which is the most common choice for residential installations. Key features to consider include:
- Tethered vs Untethered: Tethered chargers have a permanently attached cable, while untethered models require you to use your own cable.
- Smart Features: Smart chargers connect to WiFi and allow you to schedule charging, monitor energy use, and integrate with smart tariffs.
- Solar Compatibility: If you have solar panels, look for chargers that can prioritise using your generated electricity.
The Installation Process
A typical installation takes 2-4 hours and involves:
- Site survey to assess your electrical setup
- Installing the charger unit (usually on an external wall near your parking space)
- Running a dedicated circuit from your consumer unit
- Testing and commissioning
- Registration with DNO (Distribution Network Operator) if required
Costs and Grants
Installation costs typically range from £800-1500 including the charger and labour. The OZEV grant can reduce this by up to £350 for eligible applicants. See our guide to the OZEV grant for more details.