If you've just bought an electric car, then you might have some questions about EV charger installation. After all, the last thing you want is for the vehicle to run out of power. Range anxiety is a real thing, you know. Worry not, though. A home EV charger means you can power up your car while bingeing on the latest Netflix series in your front room. But how does charger installation work, and more importantly, who does it? Here we look at who can install an EV charger and why some options are better than others.

What is an EV charger?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of who can install an EV charger, you might be wondering what it is. EV chargers charge electric vehicles and can be found on streets, in supermarkets, shopping centres and hotels, and at home.

There are loads of different chargers that vary in charging speed, as well as cable size and design. For instance, home chargers are slower than on-street chargers due to the electrics. But they also have the added convenience of letting you charge your car at home and are often the go-to choice for EV owners.

Check out this guide for the best EV chargers on the market before coming right back here to see who can and should install one.

Should I use a home-installed or on-street EV charger?

You don't necessarily need to install an EV charger at home, especially if you live in a city. The number of on-street EV chargers is rising, and estimates suggest more than 35,000 are available as of October 2022. Local councils are also committing to installing more EV chargers on streets to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.

While on-street EV chargers save you from having to install one yourself, in the long run, they're probably not a practical option for continuous car charging. That's because on-street EV chargers are typically more expensive to use than home chargers. Plus, there's no guarantee your nearest one will be available when you need it, especially if more than a few EVs are parked on the street.

Therefore, a home EV charger is the best option for many and the only option if you live in a rural area. But home EV chargers need installing, and there are several options for how to do it.

Who can install an EV Charger?

A) Me

Ok, so let's get the do-it-yourself option out of the way. Unless you're a qualified electrician, you should avoid installing an EV charger in your home. Sure, it might initially be cheaper to do it yourself. But you're looking at spiralling costs if something goes wrong or, at worst, accidents occur resulting from an incorrectly-installed EV charger. A professional should carry out any home project requiring electrical attention.

B) Manufacturer

The majority of EV charger manufacturers provide an installation service when you purchase the charger. For many, this may be the most convenient option. A qualified electrician who has undergone additional EV charger-related training will install the charger, and there will be guarantees from the manufacturer just in case any issues arise. Of course, this option is usually the most expensive one.

C) A handyperson

You might be tempted to find a handyperson who's a jack of all trades and will install the charger for a lower price than manufacturers. However, using a handyperson without the necessary qualifications can be almost as risky as doing it yourself. Installing a charging point is different from installing a standard plug socket. The handyperson will be working with higher currents and will need a high-level understanding of AC and DC currents and how these relate to your fuse box. It's only recently that electric cars have become more common in households and require an expert hand. There are plenty of jobs a handyperson can do around the house, but EV charger installation probably isn't one of them.

D) Qualified electrician

When it comes to who can install an EV charger, a qualified, independent electrician might be your best bet. They will have the same qualifications as an electrician sent by the manufacturer but can be a more affordable option. Many individual electricians and companies are training with EV charging in mind and now offer installation as a stand-alone  service. Before hiring a qualified electrician, ensure they follow the Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation. Electricians who install EV charging equipment without the proper training and certifications risk breaching the Electricity At Work Regulations Act 1989. So be sure to check the credentials of the electrician before hiring them.

Fortunately, you can get up 5 free quotes from qualified EV charging electricians in your local area, with Rezigo.

Which option should I choose to install my EV charger?

Options A and C are really a no-go unless the installer has the necessary qualifications. Using the manufacturer's installation services is probably the fastest way to get your EV charger up and running, but it's also the most expensive. Therefore, an independent electrician with the right qualifications hits the sweet spot between affordability and reliability. Whichever option you go for, ensure safety and proper installation are at the front and centre when choosing someone to install your EV charger. 

How much does it cost to install an EV charger?

Now you know who can install an EV charger, you're probably wondering what it'll cost. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer, and it depends on the service. You'll also need to consider factors such as the charging point location, type of charging output, wiring a circuit breaker, installing security lighting and possibly even a new driveway design.

Not all of these will apply to your EV charger, but you may need to consider them. On average, you can expect to pay between £750 and £1,000. You may also be eligible for a homeowner EV charging point grant, meaning you can save some money on the installation. 

To get an exact price for your specific case, just post a job on Rezigo and the EV experts in your area will give you free, no obligation quotes.

Learn more about how much it costs to install an EV charger.

Summary: electric car charging at home

Installing an EV charger at home is necessary for most house owners with an electric vehicle. You've got a few options when it comes to who can install an EV charger, but your best bet is to use the manufacturer's service or hire a qualified independent electrician to set up the charger. Once installed, all that's left to do is plug it in, charge it and sit back and relax at home.