Top 5 Myths About Installing an Electric Car Charger at Home
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, more homeowners are considering installing a home charging station. However, misconceptions surrounding the cost, complexity, and practicality of EV charger installation often cause hesitation. At E-Charge Install, we regularly hear from customers who are unsure whether installing a home charger is the right decision due to these common myths. In this blog, we’ll debunk the top 5 myths about home EV charger installation and show why making the switch is easier and more beneficial than you might think.
Myth 1: Home Chargers Are Too Expensive to Install
The Reality:
One of the most persistent myths is that installing a home EV charger will break the bank. While it's true that there are initial costs involved, several government grants and incentives make installation much more affordable than most people realise. For example, the EV Chargepoint Grant (previously known as the OLEV Grant) offers up to £350 towards the installation cost. Check out our blog on government grants and incentives here - xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Moreover, the long-term savings from home charging far outweigh the initial investment. Charging your vehicle at home is typically cheaper than relying on public charging stations, especially if you can take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. When viewed over the lifespan of your electric vehicle, the convenience and cost-effectiveness of a home charger make it a sound investment.
Myth 2: Installing an EV Charger is Complicated and Time-Consuming
The Reality: Many homeowners are concerned that installing an EV charger will require a lengthy, disruptive process. However, this is rarely the case. A typical home EV charger installation can be completed in just a few hours, especially when carried out by our professional installers with years of experience in this field.
The installation process involves a virtual site assessment, the addition of a dedicated circuit for the charger, and ensuring that your home’s electrical system is equipped to handle the additional load. While older homes may require minor upgrades to the electrical panel, these updates are generally straightforward and completed on the same day. Once the charger is installed, you’re ready to start charging your EV at your convenience.
Myth 3: Public Charging is More Convenient Than Home Charging
The Reality: While public charging stations are essential for long-distance trips, relying solely on them for everyday use can be inconvenient and costly. Home charging offers unmatched convenience, especially when you have the option to plug in your car overnight and wake up to a fully charged vehicle each morning.
With public chargers, you may need to wait in line, search for available stations, or even pay higher fees during peak times. In contrast, home charging allows you to charge your vehicle whenever it suits you, and with many smart chargers, you can even schedule charging sessions during off-peak electricity hours to save on your energy bill.
For daily commuters or those who frequently use their vehicles, a home charger offers peace of mind. You no longer need to worry about finding a public station or whether your vehicle will have enough charge for the day. Plus, over time, the savings on charging fees add up.
Myth 4: My Home Can’t Support a Charger Due to Electrical Limitations
The Reality: It’s true that older homes or homes with limited electrical capacity may need some adjustments to support a home EV charger, but this doesn’t mean installation is impossible or overly complicated. Our professional installers assess your home’s electrical system before installation, ensuring that it can handle the additional load safely.
If your home’s electrical panel is outdated or lacks the capacity to add a dedicated circuit for the EV charger, an upgrade may be necessary. However, these upgrades are typically quick and straightforward. Our electricians can install additional circuits or replace your panel with a higher-capacity unit that meets modern standards. In some cases, upgrading the panel even provides long-term benefits, future-proofing your home for other high-demand appliances or even more electric vehicles.
Myth 5: Home Chargers Are Difficult to Use
The Reality: Modern home EV chargers are designed to be user-friendly, making it as easy to charge your car as it is to charge your smartphone. Most chargers come with simple plug-and-play functionality, meaning all you need to do is connect your vehicle to the charger, and it will start charging automatically. See our blog on how to pick the perfect charger for your home here - https://www.echargeinstall.co.uk/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-electric-car-charger-for-your-home
For those interested in additional features, many chargers come with smart technology that allows you to monitor charging sessions, track energy usage, and schedule charging times via a smartphone app. This is particularly useful if you want to charge during off-peak hours or keep an eye on your energy consumption.
If you’re concerned about operating a home charger, rest assured that our installation team will walk you through how to use it and provide ongoing support if needed. The goal is to make the transition to electric driving as seamless as possible.
Conclusion
There’s no need to let these common myths prevent you from experiencing the convenience and cost-saving benefits of a home EV charger. From affordable installation costs—thanks to government grants—to the simplicity of use, installing an EV charger at home is a smart, practical choice for any electric vehicle owner.
At E-Charge Install, we specialise in professional EV charger installations, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free process from start to finish. Our team is here to help assess your home’s electrical system, recommend the best charger for your needs, and guide you through any government incentives to reduce your costs. Contact us today to learn more and take the next step towards a convenient, eco-friendly driving experience.
