EV Charger Installation & Survey

Standard Installation or Not?

Examples of a standard installation. Most EV Charger installations are completed from the meter cupboard using an IP rated consumer unit. These allow for surge protection that we recommend on all of our installations.

EV Charger Installation Survey, Typical Questions:

Consumer Unit Survey

Firstly we take a look at your Consumer unit (if there is more than 1 then please send a picture of both) Could you also take it so we can see the circuit names on the mcb’s.

We need to see a close up picture of the RCD’s to ascertain if they are Type AC. We can’t use these type’s of RCD. They are against regulation.

We would more than likely fit a separate mini consumer unit in a suitable location that is metal in material and has surge protection.

Incoming cutout Fuse & Meter

Incoming fuse and meter (close up and so we can see the area around this).

Where is your meter located in case we can’t use the existing consumer unit? Also surge protection now has to be installed with all new electrical installations.

We’re also looking for a safe way to isolate the electrics. In the images there is a main switch that’s been installed in the meter cupboard. Have you got one like this?

Last thing we’re looking for is if you’re on whats called a ‘looped supply’. In the bottom of the meter, if there is 2 cables entering the cutout then you’re on one. We can apply, for free to the DNO for looped supply to be removed. This will include some groundworks. They are not uncommon.

Gas & Water Bonding

Gas bonding (should be by the meter itself) Green earth wire connected to the gas by the isolator.

Water bonding also present by the incoming stoptap. As you can see this bonding has been connected to an incoming plastic pipe. This is not required to be bonded.

What does a standard installation typically include?

Standard installations

Every home is different. However, we’ve worked to provide a standard installation package that covers the majority of our installations.

A standard installation includes:

Installation of the EV charger onto a suitable permanent structure, such as a brick or plaster wall.
Up to 10 metres of cable to connect the EV charger to the distribution board/electric meter.
A cable run through existing building voids or clipped directly to the wall, taking the shortest route possible and passing through no more than one wall.
6m of trunking provided.
Associated protection devices to protect the charger and cable.
Ensuring the EV charger is working properly and providing all of the necessary certification paperwork.

Non-standard or custom installations

Typical trench dug for the installation of a new ev charger. Trench was dug 600mm deep, new cable was installed, electrical warning tape was placed on top and the trench was then made good.

Custom installations are typically more expensive as they require additional works such as extra cabling, running the cable underground, or upgrading your electricity system.

If your installation is identified as non-standard or custom, we’ll provide you with a quote for the additional works or materials. Should you wish to proceed, and upon payment of these additional costs, we’ll then schedule and proceed with your installation as usual.

Additional tasks and resources may encompass:

Device for Surge Protection (DSP)

Devices for Surge Protection are utilised to safeguard the electrical setup (like the wiring and charging unit), as well as the vehicle connected to the charger, from any potential damages that could be triggered by electrical power surges (such as lightning).

Upgrades to RCD/Existing Board

If the current consumer unit (fuse board) is equipped with a Type AC RCD, it needs to be upgraded to a Type A RCD to comply with the IET Wiring Regulations for EV charger installations. The objective is to shield the electrical circuit from DC leakage, which Type AC RCD’s fail to provide.

Ground Operations

Necessity of Ground Works

If the cable cannot be affixed to a permanent structure (like a wall) between two points, ground works are needed to place the cabling underground. It’s not permissible to lay cabling over a ground surface (like a pathway or plant bed) due to the high risk of damage and potential tripping hazards.

Extra Cabling Costs

Cable routes exceeding 10 meters in length will incur additional charges. Please note: the cable route’s meterage includes the distances up and down walls (if necessary), not just the direct distance between the power supply and the charger location.

Additional Cable Trunking (& Accessories)

The installation of white PVC trunking exceeding 6 meters in length or routes that necessitate more than four bends (around walls) will also incur extra charges. Trunking installation is necessary where cabling cannot be routed through any existing voids in the building.

Extra Labour Costs

Extra manpower might be necessary due to the tasks associated with laying the cable between the electrical supply and the charger location. This could mean more hours for a single engineer to finish the job, or several engineers (depending on the nature/safety of the tasks).

Bonding (Gas & Water)

Gas bonding is typically marked by a yellow and green earth wire near the gas meter, while the water bonding wire is located near the water stop valve. It’s crucial to have bonding in place prior to the installation of an EV charger, to avoid lethal electric shocks and fires (resulting from fault currents being transmitted through the property’s metal pipes).

How Do I Get a Quote for My EV Charger Installation?

Getting a quote for your electric vehicle (EV) charger installation is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure you get an accurate estimate:

Determine Your Needs: Identify whether you have an electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid, or if you have one on order. Knowing the type of vehicle helps determine the most suitable charger.
Select a Charger: Choose the EV charger that appeals to you. Popular brands like Simpson & Partners, Andersen, and Hypervolt offer a variety of models. If you're unsure which one to pick, don't worry too much at this stage.
Request a Quote: Once you have a charger in mind, navigate to the website where you plan to make the purchase. Look for the "Contact Us" option, which is typically found at the top or within the product details section of the page.
Provide Necessary Information: Fill out the required forms with details such as your contact information, address, and any specifics about your home setup. This information helps the installer provide a more accurate quote.
Review and Confirm: After submitting your request, you'll receive a quote that outlines the installation costs. If you change your mind about the charger or need more advice, most services allow you to modify your choice before making any payment.

By following these steps, you can easily get a quote tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Will My Property Need Upgrades to the Electricity Supply Before Installation of an EV Charge Point?

In most cases, you won't need any upgrades to your electricity supply before installing an EV charge point. However, certain factors influence this requirement.

Key Considerations

Property’s Maximum Demand Estimate: This estimate is crucial in determining whether your current electrical setup is sufficient. Technicians will calculate this and notify the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO).
Size of the Main Fuse: If the main fuse in your property is too small to handle the increased load, an upgrade may be necessary. Your DNO will provide guidance on this matter.
Looped Supply: If your property shares an electrical supply with a neighboring property, known as a looped supply, you may require upgrades to ensure safe and efficient charging.

Notification and Coordination

DNO Notification: Installers are required to inform the local DNO of any new EV charger installations. The DNO will assess the situation and determine if an upgrade is needed.
Direct Contact: If an upgrade is required, the DNO will contact you directly to manage and implement the necessary changes.

Summary

While many properties do not need upgrades, it's essential to evaluate the above factors to ensure a seamless installation. Your local DNO will be instrumental in guiding and executing any required works.

Why Isn’t My Quote the Same as the Price on the Website?

When you receive a quote that's different from the price listed on our website, it's because every installation is unique. Here's a breakdown of why this happens:

Tailored Assessments: We conduct a comprehensive remote Online Site Survey to accurately assess your specific requirements. This ensures that we understand all the nuances involved in your installation.
Accurate Costing: Our website prices serve as a baseline, reflecting the minimum cost for each type of charger installation. However, these do not account for the individual details of your setup.
Customized Quotes: After evaluating your survey, we provide a personalised quote. It factors in site-specific considerations that weren’t obvious from the initial online price.

By following this approach, we aim to offer you a fair and honest quote, tailored to your unique situation.

How much for a standard EV charger installation cost?

For a standard EV charger Installation cost we charge £300 + VAT. There are times when we have charged less but it mostly costs this amount.

Local EV Charger Installations?

Are you Looking on search engines for a local 'EV charger installation near me'. Look no further. If we can't cover your area then we will more than likely be able to recommend someone in your area.

How much to install an EV charger at home uk?

We would need to carry out a remote survey which most the time we can do remotely. Our standard install cost is £300 + VAT but would confirm this with a survey.

EV-PV

EV-PV is your trusted provider in the West Midlands for EV charging and solar PV solutions. We specialise in seamless installations for both residential and commercial settings. Our expert team offers tailored advice, customised quotations, and exceptional customer service. From single home charge points to multi-charger setups, we have the expertise to meet your specific needs. With a strong track record of successful installations across the Midlands, including areas like Birmingham, Edgbaston, and Bournville, we are your go-to source for sustainable energy solutions. Join us in embracing a greener future. Contact EV-PV today to learn more about our offerings.