Last updated on August 12th, 2024 at 08:08 am
As electric vehicles become increasingly popular in the UK, the demand for reliable home charging solutions has surged. One of the most crucial decisions new EV owners face is selecting the right company to install their car charger. With a variety of options available, it's essential to choose an installer that offers quality service, compliance with safety standards, and ongoing support. This article provides guidance on what to look for in a car charger installer and highlights how ChargedEV, a prominent player in the industry, meets these criteria. We'll state, right up front, that we have no commercial relationship with ChargedEV – we chose them purely on reputation. Other great charger installation organisations are available and we encourage you to do your own research.
The process of installing an EV charger at home is generally straightforward, especially when handled by experienced professionals. The installation typically begins with identifying an appropriate location for the charger, often near the parking area for convenience. The charger is then securely mounted to a wall, with cables running back to the property's main electrical supply, usually connecting to the consumer unit. This setup requires drilling and securing cables, ensuring they are neatly and safely routed etc. After the physical installation, safety checks are conducted, including inspecting connections and verifying that the installation complies with local electrical codes. The final step involves live testing the unit to ensure it functions correctly, followed by a software check to confirm that the charging system interfaces properly with the EV and any related applications.
Safety is a paramount concern in EV charger installations. A good installer will ensure that all electrical work complies with the latest standards and regulations, such as those set by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the NICEIC. This includes using the correct type of cabling and protective devices to prevent electrical faults and ensuring that the installation is adequately earthed to protect against electric shock. Additionally, it's crucial to verify that the existing electrical system can handle the additional load without compromising safety. Installers should also provide safety information to homeowners, including instructions on proper usage and maintenance of the charger, and advise on regular checks to ensure ongoing safety. Ensuring these measures are in place is essential for preventing potential hazards and ensuring the long-term reliability of the charging system. Having made your cost analysis, you've now chosen your EV, so what should you be considering when it comes to your charger installer?
Key Considerations When Choosing a Car Charger Installer
1. Accreditation and Certification
When selecting an installer, it's vital to check for proper accreditations and certifications. These credentials ensure that the installer meets industry standards for safety and quality. In the UK, reputable installers should be NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting) approved. This accreditation confirms that the company is qualified to carry out electrical installations and adheres to the highest standards of safety and competence. Other certifications to look for include Safe Contractor status, MCS certification for solar PV systems, and membership in the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).
2. Comprehensive Services
A good car charger installer should offer a full range of services, from initial consultation to post-installation support. This includes assisting with the selection of the appropriate Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE), conducting site surveys to ensure compliance with regulations, and managing the logistics of the installation process. For workplace installations, the installer should also provide tailored solutions that address the specific needs of commercial settings.
3. Nationwide Coverage and Availability
Accessibility and quick response times are crucial. The installer should have a network of qualified professionals across the country, ensuring that customers can receive prompt service regardless of location. This is particularly important in the UK, where the availability of installers can vary widely between regions.
4. Customer Support and Aftercare
Quality aftercare is an essential component of the installation service. It’s important that the company offers robust customer support to handle any issues that may arise post-installation. This includes addressing technical problems, providing maintenance, and offering guidance on optimal charger use.
Is ChargedEV a reliable choice for EV charger installation?
ChargedEV is one of the UK's leading suppliers and installers of EV charging points, having installed over 55,000 units to date. Here's how ChargedEV aligns with the key considerations for choosing an installer:
Accreditation and Certification
ChargedEV holds multiple accreditations, including NICEIC Approved Contractor status, Safe Contractor certification, and MCS certification. Additionally, they are a member of the RECC and are recognised as GivEnergy Approved Installers. These certifications not only validate ChargedEV's expertise but also reassure customers of their commitment to safety and quality.
Comprehensive Services
Companies like ChargedEV offer a structured approach to the installation process, which includes five key stages:-
- Engagement
The company provides initial consultation and assistance with selecting the right EVSE - Projects
They conduct thorough site surveys to ensure that installations comply with all relevant regulations - Scheduling and Logistics
Companies like ChargedEV will manage the logistics to ensure that installations are carried out efficiently and on schedule - Commercial Services
For workplace installations, they will offer customised solutions – tailored to the unique needs of your business - Support
Post-installation, they'll offer comprehensive support to address any issues and ensure customer satisfaction
Nationwide Coverage
ChargedEV's network of installers spans across the UK, including Northern Ireland. This extensive coverage allows them to provide timely and efficient installation services to customers nationwide, ensuring minimal delays and convenient access to charging facilities from day one.
Customer Support and Aftercare
That network of installers, is also going to provide your hands-on support and aftercare should you experience any issues. Good installers maintain open lines of communication with customers, installation engineers and charger manufacturers – ensuring that any issues are swiftly addressed. This commitment to aftercare is crucial for maintaining the functionality of the charging equipment and providing peace of mind to EV owners.
In summary
Choosing the right car charger installer is a critical step for any new EV owner. By prioritising accredited and certified companies that offer comprehensive services, nationwide coverage, and robust customer support, buyers can ensure a smooth and reliable installation experience. ChargedEV is one of the companies working hard to exemplify those qualities, making them a ‘short list candidate' for domestic and small commercial EV charger installations in the UK and Northern Ireland. All of the main accreditation bodies will maintain lists of installers who are up to date with all of their certifications.
With independent review sites like Trust Pilot, it is possible that you can ‘fudge' a dozen or so reviews in order to boost your brand, but it's just not possible to do that with almost 5,000 reviews – that have given a company an average rating of 4.9 out or 5. Worth considering when making your choice.
WhichEV has a comprehensive installation video that you can see over here. It shows the extended process for installation in a secondary building (garage), which should cover most aspects of a modern domestic installation and give you a good idea of what will happen ‘on the day'.
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