When entering the unknown of electrical vehicle charge installation, it’s common to have a number of questions to ensure that the process is smooth and simple so that you can use your new charging point in no time.
Are there different types of EV charging stations?
Yes there are and this will help determine your budget and requirements. From Level 1 (slow) to Level 2 (fast) and DC Fast Chargers (rapid) there are a number of options to invest in.
Is it necessary to have a dedicated circuit for an electric car charging point?
For home use, your current electrical panel may have the right amount of capacity to support the added charging station. Meanwhile, commercial outlets will have more demands on electricity and therefore will need a dedicated system to power the station.
Do I need planning permission?
For public, industrial, commercial and domestic charging stations planning permission may be needed depending on elements such as location and local regulations, especially for listed buildings and conservation areas.
How much does it cost to have a professional car charger installation?
For homeowners looking to install a standard 7kw fast charger, it’s estimated that this can cost between £500-£1,000 for the installation as well as the cost of the charger itself depending on what product you get. Sadly there are no grants available for homeowners anymore, but the EV charge point grant released in April 2022 is available for tenants, landlords and flat-owner occupiers with funding of up to 75%. As for commercial enquiries, this depends on the type of charger, infrastructure, amount of units and the location which can be a great factor in the overall cost. Enquiring with a professional installation company such as Stroud Electrical will help give you an idea of how much it will all cost.
How long does it usually take to charge an electric vehicle?
Depending on which station you’re using will determine the charge time for your car. Level 2 chargers can take a number of hours for a full charge whilst fast chargers can top up to 80% in just 30 minutes.
Do car charging points need to be maintained?
As with anything to do with cars it’s important to look after the upkeep of equipment. This includes cleaning the station and making sure that the electrical connections are secure. As technology becomes more and more intelligent, there is an option to check in on real-time diagnostics remotely to monitor its performance.