Understanding EV Charging Points
Can I install my own EV charge point? In this guide, we’ll explore the legal requirements, safety considerations, and the steps involved in setting up your own EV charging station, helping you make an informed decision
What is EV Charging? Put simply, it is the method by which the battery in your electric vehicle is charged. An Electric Vehicle Charge Point or EVCP can be installed domestically up to 7.2kW single phase (approximately 27 miles per hour of charge), 22kW on a commercial or three phase residential system (up to 55 or so miles per hour of charge), or a DC voltage fast charge such as at service stations.
DIY vs Professional Installation, and the considerations before installation.
Let’s consider that a domestic Electric Vehicle Charge Point rated at 7.2kW at the nominal supply of 230v 50hz will have a current draw of 32A which is the equivalent of having two and a half to three kettles all boiling at the same time. Imagine boiling those kettles for eight hours, if we’re looking at the average time to fully charge, which could be half the rated supply into the property without anything else in the property being used. Then, the Charge Point itself is to be installed on the outside of the property and subject to every bit of weather and temperature the United Kingdom can throw at it.
DIY
Homeowners make minor electrical repairs in their homes all the time, such as changing a light fitting or a socket outlet. Many electricians and technical specialists would consider this to have greater risk than reward, as loose terminations within even a small light fitting can cause fires, without considering the risk of electric shock.
Electrical Knowledge and skills
A time-served electrician will have served a three to four-year apprenticeship or equivalent, and be qualified to at least level 3 in both Electrical Installation and Initial Verification and Inspection, particularly if they belong to a competent person scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT. Further to this, they will have had additional training to select and install EV Chargers, the City & Guilds 2919 or 2919-02 as examples.
Building regulations, Electrical regulations, the local Distribution Network Operator and electrical infrastructure.
EV Charger installation looks as though it is as straightforward as hanging a socket on a wall. And with proper planning, it is. But, it still requires electrical installation of a ‘special’ nature, that requires proper consideration of the building regulations, the current version of BS7671 the standard for electrical installation, permission from the local electrical authority may have to be sought, and then all that considered, a cable will need to be installed correctly from the most appropriate supply equipment to the final location for the charge point. Your consumer unit or distribution board might be in the centre of the property, and all likelihood, the EVCP is going to be outside.
Steps to install an Electric Vehicle Charge Point.
A survey will be paramount. Not only to ascertain cable routes but also to determine if your supply is large enough to suit your requirements, if not, an application to the local Distribution Network Operator should go in. If the installation is applicable for a grant, this application may have to go in after an estimate has been received but before installation starts. There then would follow the physical installation as agreed and finally commissioning, ensuring that all safety features of your electric vehicle charge points function properly.
Benefits of Professional Installation.
With the move towards sustainability, a lot of emphasis is being placed on the electrification of services, which goes hand in hand with the automation of everything and the Internet of Things. A true, experienced engineer will consider the entire picture and how your electric vehicle charge point fits within it. On the day of your design, the very latest knowledge and technical information from the industry as well as safety standards should be applied, all according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring your full warranty and support period. Within a domestic installation, this would have the additional convenience of notification to Building Control under Approved Document Part P, communication with the DNO, ENA and DVLA on top of the usual certification and operating instructions.
How Much Does an Electric Vehicle Charge Point Cost?
Truly, this is relative to the complexity of your installation and requirements. If an up-to-date consumer unit is in your garage, you have a great wifi signal there and it’s where your charge point is going, installation could start as low as £750+vat.
Speak to an EV Charge Point Specialist Today!
To find out more or to schedule an electrical inspection today, contact Pretty Wired on 020 4542 1890, email us at info@prettywired.co.uk or send us a message here.
