Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular and the rise in the number of charging points across the country means the network is getting stronger.
However, it's still far easier and cheaper to charge up at home. We spoke to experienced electricians about about the key things to consider before installing one at your home, including location, cost and the electrical load on your home.
Here, professional electricians reveal everything you need to know about installing a car charging point to help you make the most informed decision about this feature which adds value to your home.
Everything you need to know about installing a car charging point
So far as eco-home improvements go, car charging points are some of the least disruptive to install in comparison to things like heat pumps or solar panels. That is not to say that it is a simple process, however, and you need to work closely with your installers for the perfect results.
So far as the installation goes, Joel Worthington, president at Mr. Electric, a Neighborly company explains, ‘A location for the charging point is selected. Electricians should run wiring from the electrical panel to the charging location and install a dedicated circuit for the charger. The charger is mounted to the wall or stand and the electrician will connect the wiring. After the system is installed, a test should be conducted to ensure everything is working as it should.
‘There may be more electrical work needed depending on the current state of the electrical system in the home,’ he adds. ‘Some homes may require a panel upgrade and additional electrical needs.’
Costs of installing a car charging point
Installing a car charging point is not a task you want to DIY, nor should you cut any corners for the sake of saving money on home renovations to ensure safety. Luckily, installing a car charging point is not one of the most expensive home renovations, Jim O’Brien, electrician, and Leviton contractor marketing manager assure us.
He says, ‘The cost of installing a home EV charger can vary. On average, it ranges from $600 to $1,200 (based on your location) for a simple installation. However, if your home requires upgrades like a new electrical panel or wiring, the cost can rise to around $3,000 or more. It’s best to get a quote from a qualified electrician based on your home’s specific needs.'
The cost can also rise if the space you park and charge your car versus, where you can have the charging point fitted is far apart and needs groundwork such as trenching. This is when a groove is created in the surface of the road to bury the wiring and then repaved.
Check your home’s electrical system load limit
Speaking of home electrical upgrades, a car charging point will bring a bump in electricity use.
If your home’s current electrical system has a small load limit (dictating how much electricity can be used at one time before tripping the fuses to avoid a fire) then you might need to look at an upgrade and the costs to rewire a house.
Joel Worthington, president at Mr, Electric, continues, ‘With all the devices in your home (like appliances and HVAC systems), adding an EV charger can push your electrical system to its limit.
'Fortunately, 2023 updates to the National Electrical Code (NEC) allow for the installation of load management systems. These systems help balance the power in your home so you can charge your EV without overloading the system.'
The type of car charger you need
Picking a type of car charger for your home goes beyond the aesthetics and its impact on your curb appeal ideas. You need to pick a charger that is suitable for your car and meets specific safety regulations.
Joel Worthington, president at Mr, Electric, recommends that, ‘Homeowners should look for things like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) Certification. This ensures the charger meets safety standards. SAE J1772 Compliance means the charger is compatible with most electric vehicles in North America.
‘Level 1 chargers fit into a standard outlet. The charge is slower. Level 2 chargers allow for faster charging and are the common type of EV chargers installed in homes. The majority of EVs use an SAE J1772 connector.'
You can also pick between a fixed and non-fixed charger so if you change your car and it has a different charging type, you can afix a new charger wire to your unit.
Where to put a car charging point
Where you put your car charging point depends on where you park your car, however there are several other important considerations that can determine your charging point’s final location in your driveway designs, says Ben Reubenstein, chief product officer at Emporia Energy.
For a start, the charging point needs to be close to where you park and close to your electrical panel, Ben begins. ‘Installing the charger far from your electrical panel can increase costs due to longer wiring and may lead to voltage drop, reducing charging efficiency,’ he says. ‘You also want to avoid locations that make it difficult to plug/unplug the charger, or places prone to obstacles (like crowded garages or driveways), should be avoided for user convenience and safety.
‘Outdoor installations require weatherproofing, and the charger should have a suitable NEMA rating,’ he begins. ‘Avoid placing the charger in spots that are fully exposed to rain, snow, or direct sunlight without adequate weatherproofing, as this can damage the charger over time.
'A high NEMA rating is needed for outdoor installations. That being said, chargers generate heat, and poor ventilation can cause overheating, reducing the charger’s efficiency and lifespan, and increasing fire risks, so be sure not to cover them entirely.
‘Finally, avoid installing the charger near flammable objects or materials, such as near gas meters, fuel storage areas, or wooden structures, as electrical equipment can pose fire risks.’
How much car charging points cost to use
Of course, a car charging point is going to increase your energy bills, which with rising costs, is something you will want to consider before investing. Luckily, working out how much it costs to charge your car at home is not too dissimilar to working out how much it costs to run an electric heater, or costs to run an electric blanket, and there are ways to cut energy bills.
Jim O’Brien, electrician, says, ‘You can calculate your charging costs by checking how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) your vehicle uses per 100 miles and multiplying that by your utility rate.’
Joel Worthington, president at Mr, Electric, adds, ‘The amount will vary depending on the electrical rate, but generally, EVs cost around $30-$60 per month to charge.’
If you still want a charging point but are looking for ways to save money at home, Ben Reubenstein, chief product officer, suggests shopping around for variable utility providers, ‘Utility bills have varying costs across the country. It is important to have an understanding of your utility bill and to get a charger that will allow you to control it to match how you are charged for electricity.
‘For example, many people are on time-of-use utility plans where energy costs more during certain parts of the day. Picking a charger that lets you set your utility rate via an application, like the Emporia Classic EV Charger, will ensure that you only charge when energy is the cheapest.’
This might seem like a lot to take into account, but understanding all the intricacies of installing an electric car charging point before you take the plunge will make the installation process much easier.
If in doubt, consult a local installer for their advice, as they will be able to assess your home’s specific needs and help you decide on a type or charger and location that will work best for you.
Next learn more about how to make your home remodel more eco-friendly.
