The switch to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating, with more drivers in Kent than ever choosing a greener way to travel. While the environmental benefits are clear, a key part of owning an EV is having a convenient and efficient way to charge it. For most, that means installing a dedicated home charging point.

If you’re considering an EV, here’s what you need to know about getting a home charger installed.

Why Do I Need a Dedicated Home Charger?

While most EVs come with a cable that can be plugged into a standard 3-pin wall socket, this method is extremely slow—it can take over 24 hours for a full charge. It also puts a continuous, heavy load on your home’s wiring, which standard sockets are not designed for.

A dedicated home charger is:

Faster: A typical 7kW home charger can fully charge most EVs overnight (in about 6-8 hours).
Safer: They are installed on a dedicated, protected circuit and have built-in safety features that a 3-pin socket lacks.
Smarter: Many modern chargers come with smart features, allowing you to schedule charging for off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper, and monitor energy usage via an app.

What’s Involved in the Installation?

A professional installation from a certified electrician is essential. The process typically involves:

A Site Survey: An electrician will assess your property’s electrical system, including your consumer unit and meter, to ensure it can handle the extra load.
Choosing a Location: You’ll decide on the best place for the charger—usually on an exterior wall in your driveway or inside your garage.
The Installation: The electrician will install the charging unit and run a dedicated, armoured cable from it back to your consumer unit, ensuring it is fully protected by an RCD and its own circuit breaker.
Testing and Certification: Once installed, the system will be fully tested and you will receive the necessary electrical safety certificates.

Choosing the Right Installer

It’s vital to choose an electrician who is not only NICEIC registered but also has specific experience and qualifications in installing EV charging points. They will understand the unique requirements and ensure your installation is safe, compliant, and eligible for any government grants that may be available.

Ready to make the switch to electric? Service Pro Ltd provides professional, certified EV charging point installations across Kent. Contact us today for a free survey and quote.