How to Approach EV Charger Installation in Older Homes
In June 2022, it became a requirement for all new homes in England to have built-in electric vehicle (EV) chargers. A part of the UK’s strategies to meet climate targets, this new law strengthens the association of EV chargers with new buildings. The rise in demand for EV charging points for new homes, however, does not mean that older homes cannot contribute to the development of efficient and future-proof transportation solutions. Just like newly built or renovated buildings, older structures can benefit from the services of companies like Elecology that specialise in EV charging point installation in the UK.
Consideration When Installing an EV Charger in an OIder Home
Pairing technologies from different ages comes with its own set of challenges, and the same applies when adding EV chargers in older buildings and residences. If you have an old home and you’re planning to upgrade it with the addition of an EV charging station, you need to consider how the unique characteristics and limitations of your residence can pose challenges during the EV charger installation process.
Here are some of the difficulties that you and your preferred EV charger installer need to anticipate.
Outdated Electrical Wiring - Older homes may have electrical wiring that is not equipped to handle the increased power demand of an EV charger. Rewiring or electrical upgrades may be needed to accommodate the charger safely.
Limited Electrical Capacity - Older homes may have limited capacity, which can pose a challenge when adding a new high-power electrical appliance like an EV charger. Upgrading the electrical panel may be necessary to support the charger's power requirements.
Lack of Dedicated Parking - Older homes may lack dedicated parking spaces or have limited space available for installing an EV charger. Homeowners may need to explore alternative solutions such as placing the charger on the street or in a communal parking area.
Building Regulations and Planning Permission - Installing an EV charger may require planning permission or adherence to building regulations, depending on the location and specific requirements of the local authorities. Obtaining the necessary permits can be a challenge and may involve navigating bureaucratic processes.
Cost of Installation - Retrofitting an older home with an EV charger can be more expensive compared to installing one in a newer property. This is because the process can involve upgrading electrical systems, placing dedicated circuits, and making structural modifications—all of which can contribute to higher costs.
Aesthetic Considerations - Homeowners may be concerned about the visual impact of installing an EV charger on the exterior of their older home, especially if it involves drilling holes or making modifications to the building's facade. Finding aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound installation options can be a challenge.
Yes, you can install a brand-new EV charging station in your old home. To succeed in this task, though, you’ll need careful planning, consultation with professionals, and potentially some upgrades to your residential property's electrical infrastructure.
Finding a Professional EV Installer Who Can Work on Your Property
It’s ideal to find a local EV charger installer near you to work on your residential property. Someone who’s familiar with the lay of the land may be more adept at determining the specific issues of installing an EV charger in your area. Aside from this, you should prioritise several key factors when choosing an installer to ensure a successful and hassle-free service.
Firstly, the installer should have both expertise and experience in dealing with older homes. Seek out companies that have a proven track record of working with outdated electrical systems and navigating the unique challenges associated with older properties. It’s also a must for the installer to have a thorough understanding of building regulations and compliance requirements specific to older homes. This ensures that the project meets all necessary standards and avoids potential regulatory pitfalls.
Also, look for EV installers that offer comprehensive assessment and consultation services. Your choice of service provider should ideally account for the property's electrical infrastructure, parking configuration, and aesthetic considerations. If the installer can also serve as your EV charging point maintenance services provider, all the better.
Aside from checking the installer’s credentials, it’s also a good idea to check if the service provider offers transparent pricing and a clear breakdown of costs. Since the contractor is working on an older structure, the breakdown of cost should include any necessary electrical upgrades or structural modifications. Knowing these details will help you make informed decisions. Furthermore, opting for installers who provide warranties or guarantees on their workmanship can offer you peace of mind and protection against potential issues down the line.
Ultimately, by prioritising expertise, experience, transparency, and reliability, you can find an EV charger installer that is well-equipped to address the unique challenges presented by old homes. If you’re looking for a service provider that can meet all these requirements, check out Elecology. For inquiries and site survey bookings, please fill out the form on our Book a Site Survey page.
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