• The Cabin, 16 Hartley Ct Rd, Reading RG7 1NS
  • Mon-Sat : 07:00 -17:00
EV charging point with EV attached

 

So, you’re thinking about getting an Electric Vehicle (EV) – that’s fantastic!

As EVs become more popular, having a charging point at home is super convenient. But before you jump in, there are a few things to consider to make sure your home is all set for an EV charger.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get everything ready.

1. Check Your Home’s Power Supply

First things first, you’ll want to make sure your home has the right power capacity to handle an EV charger. Most homes in the UK run on a 230V single-phase supply, which works well for most home chargers. However, if you have an older property or you’re unsure about your electrical setup, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified electrician. Our team at Forbury Electrical can do this for you and we can let you know if any upgrades are needed to support your new charger.

2. Choose the Right Location for Your Charger

Where you place your EV charger matters! Ideally, you want it to be near where you park your car, whether that’s in a garage or on the driveway. The closer the charger is to your vehicle, the easier and more convenient it will be to plug in. But don’t worry if it’s a little further away – with the right setup, we can help you find the best solution for running the necessary cables.

3. Decide on the Type of Charger

Not all chargers are the same, and the speed at which you can charge your car depends on the type you choose. Most home chargers are either 3.6kW or 7kW, with the latter being the quicker option. A 7kW charger can charge most EVs from empty to full in about 7-10 hours, which is perfect for overnight charging. If you’re unsure which option is best for you, we’re more than happy to talk through your options based on your vehicle and how much driving you do.

4. Apply for Any Grants or Funding

Did you know there are government grants available to help with the cost of installing a home EV charger? The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) provides financial support through the EV Chargepoint Grant, which can cover up to 75% of the installation cost. It’s worth checking if you’re eligible – and if you need help with the paperwork, just let us know. We’re always here to help make the process as smooth as possible.

5. Get the Right Installer

Finally, it’s important to have your charger installed by a qualified professional. A certified installer, like Forbury Electrical, will ensure everything is set up safely and correctly, giving you peace of mind. We’ll make sure the charger is installed according to the latest regulations, and we’ll also check that your home’s electrical system can handle the extra load from the charger.

Ready to Go Electric?

Getting your home ready for an EV charger doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning and the right help, you’ll soon be enjoying the benefits of charging your car at home.

At Forbury Electrical, we’re here to guide you through the whole process – from inspecting your current setup to helping you choose the right charger and ensuring a safe, professional installation. If you’re in the Reading area and thinking about installing an EV charger, why not give us a call? We’re always happy to chat about how we can help.

Get in touch with the Forbury Electrical team today!

Related Blogs

Write a Reply or Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *