We are proud to be OZEV-accredited and manufacturer-approved EV charging point installers, serving the entire Devon region. We understand that you may have questions about installing an EV charging point, and we are here to help. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide you with valuable information about electric vehicle charging. If you have any further inquiries or would like to speak with us directly, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to assist you.
How much does it cost for an electric vehicle charging point to be installed?
At our company, we believe that every installation is unique and requires a bespoke approach. That’s why we don’t offer fixed-price installations. While larger companies may offer fixed pricing, they often come with conditions and limitations that can result in increased prices or delays. This is because there are many variables involved in the installation process, such as the length of cable required from the charger to the consumer unit, the placement of the cable, and whether the charger is connected directly to the CU or requires a new one. There are also many other factors to consider.
It’s important to note that some new vehicle manufacturers promote charging installations at a cost well below the typical installation cost. However, this may be because the installation cost is subsidised by the purchase price of the vehicle. At our company, we believe in transparency and honesty, which is why we provide our customers with a fair and accurate quote for their installation.
Most customers who use an independent EV charging installer pay between £1200 and £1400 for a full installation. However, this cost can be reduced by £350 if a government grant is applicable. We understand that cost is an important factor for our customers, which is why we strive to provide competitive pricing without compromising on quality or safety.
At our company, we believe in providing our customers with a personalised and professional service. We take the time to understand your needs and requirements, and we work with you to create a bespoke installation that meets your specific needs. Our team of experienced and qualified installers ensures that your installation is completed to the highest standards, and we provide ongoing support to ensure that your charging station continues to operate efficiently and safely.
In summary, at our company, we believe in providing our customers with a bespoke and professional service that meets their specific needs. We don’t offer fixed-price installations because we understand that every installation is unique and requires a personalised approach. We provide competitive pricing without compromising on quality or safety, and we strive to exceed our customers’ expectations at every
Am I eligible for a grant towards my EV point?
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) is offering a grant of up to £350 to assist with the cost of installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging point. However, there are certain criteria that must be met in order to qualify for the grant.
To be eligible for the grant, you must own an electric vehicle that is either privately owned or a company car. Additionally, the grant is available to residential landlords, flat owners, and those living in rented properties. You must also have off-street parking available for the installation of the charging point, and the charger must be a smart electric vehicle charger. Finally, there must be adequate existing electrical capacity to support the installation of the charging point.
By meeting these criteria, you can take advantage of the OZEV grant and make the switch to electric vehicles more affordable and accessible. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
Which is the best charger for me?
The market offers a vast array of EV charging units to choose from. In the UK, regulations were implemented on June 30th, 2022, and security requirements on December 30th, for EV charging units sold for domestic or workplace use. These regulations ensure that charging points have smart functionality, allowing for the charging of an EV during periods of low demand on the National Grid or when more renewable electricity is available. Additionally, the regulations ensure that charging points meet specific device-level requirements, providing consumers with a minimum level of access and security information.
It is essential to note that purchasing a second-hand charger or one from eBay is not advisable, as these may not comply with regulations. This means that reputable installation companies, such as PJS EV, would be unable to install the charging point. At PJS EV, we only supply and use compliant manufacturers of EV charging points, ensuring that our customers receive the highest quality products.
When selecting an EV charger, several factors should be considered, including budget, solar integration, earthing and fault protection, and user-friendliness. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose the best EV charger for your needs. At PJS EV, we are committed to providing our customers with the most reliable and efficient EV charging solutions available.
Do I need a certain charger for my vehicle?
No, all chargers are capable of performing their primary function, which is to charge your electric vehicle, regardless of whether it is a Nissan Leaf or a Tesla. While there are standard cables, sockets, and plugs, there may be slight variations, particularly in older vehicles. However, the majority of modern vehicle manufacturers adhere to the Mode 3 charging standard, which is applicable to almost all new electric vehicles. The sockets used for this standard are known as Type 2.
Types of Charger - Tethered or Untethered?
Tethered charging is a convenient and efficient way to power up your electric vehicle. With the charging lead integrated into the charge point, you can say goodbye to messy cables and hello to a neat and tidy charging experience. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about misplacing your charging lead again – it’s always there when you need it. And the best part? You won’t have to waste any time searching for a compatible lead or buying an additional one. If you ever need to change the lead, a qualified installer can take care of it for you.
On the other hand, untethered charging offers a bit more flexibility. With no lead attached to the charge point, you can keep your charging lead in your car and only attach it when you need to charge up. This means that visitors can also use the charger with their own lead, making it a great option for shared charging spaces. However, it’s important to note that initially connecting to the charger may take a bit more time than with tethered charging. But once you’re set up, you’ll be good to go!
Can I charge my EV using an extension lead?
It is highly recommended to avoid this idea altogether. While it is possible to charge from a dedicated 13-amp socket, it is important to note that this method takes nearly three times longer than other charging options. Additionally, over time, this method can cause the sockets to overheat, which can lead to a potential fire hazard and ultimately result in the sockets breaking down. It is crucial to prioritise safety and opt for alternative charging methods to prevent any potential risks.
How long does it take to charge my car?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, and with that comes the need for charging points. There are three main types of EV charging points available: Rapid, Fast, and Slow.
A fast charging point is the standard for home and workplace charging. Most of the leading fast chargers are rated at 7 kW and 22 kW (3 phase), which will charge most vehicles to 100% in between 6-8 hours. Rapid charging is associated with DC chargers you see at service stations. These can charge your car up to 80% within 20-30 minutes, making them ideal for longer journeys.
To work out your charging time, simply divide your car battery capacity by the charger capacity (for example, a 58 kW car battery divided by a 7 kW charger equals 8.29 hours). To calculate the cost of fully charging your vehicle, multiply the charger output (7 kW) by the electric unit rate (e.g. 32p/kWh for a standard home tariff), which equals £2.24. Then, multiply this by the number of hours to charge (7 hours), which equals £15.68. However, if you are able to get a smart EV tariff with your provider, then you can have rates off-peak at a much lower cost. This means that if you charge your vehicle overnight, it might cost less than £10. It’s worth speaking to your energy supplier for more information on how to save money on charging your EV.
In conclusion, understanding the different types of EV charging points available and how to calculate the cost and time of charging your vehicle is essential for any EV owner. With the right knowledge and tariff, you can save money and enjoy the benefits of driving an electric vehicle.
How long does it take to install a charger?
An average installation of an electric vehicle charger involves placing the charger within 10 meters of the house’s consumer unit, running the cable along the exterior walls, and terminating it easily into the fuse board. This process typically takes around 3-4 hours. However, if a new consumer unit is necessary or the cable run is longer, the installation may take longer, ranging from 4-6 hours. Additionally, if the house’s consumer unit requires reconfiguration, the installation may take longer than expected.
When should I be thinking of getting a EV Charger?
When it comes to installing an EV charger, timing is key. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, we recommend starting the process approximately 2-3 months before your electric vehicle arrives at home. This will give you ample time to ensure that all requirements are met before installation can take place.
One of the first steps in the process is completing a survey of the existing electrical arrangements. This survey will determine if there is adequate electrical capacity, compliance, and ability to add an EV to the electrical supply. The survey can be done on-site or through a desktop survey where you would need to send some photos. Your local network supplier (National Grid) and OZEV may require these surveys to ensure that no additional work is needed, such as upgrading the electrical supply or main.
If everything checks out, installation can proceed, and the National Grid will be notified afterward. However, if an inspection of the premises, supply upgrade, or alteration of electrical equipment is necessary, this can take longer, approximately 4 weeks or more, depending on what is required and how busy the contractor and local distribution network operators (National Grid) are.
It’s important to note that the installation process can be complex and time-consuming, but it’s worth it to ensure that your EV charger is installed safely and efficiently. By starting the process early and working with experienced professionals, you can enjoy the benefits of electric vehicle ownership without any unnecessary delays or complications.
Can I buy my own charger and you install it?
It is becoming increasingly common for customers to inquire about purchasing and supplying their own charger for installation. However, not all installation companies will accommodate this request. This is not due to financial reasons, but rather concerns about compliance and warranty issues.
Most chargers come with a manufacturer’s warranty of 3-5 years, which is not a concern if the installer provides and fits the charger. In the event of a fault, the installer would return to resolve any issues and, if necessary, remove and send the charger back to the manufacturer/wholesaler at no cost to the customer.
However, if the customer supplies the charger and a fault occurs, the question arises as to who will pay for the removal of the charging unit and fault finding. This could potentially create an uncomfortable situation for both the customer and installer.
To avoid such issues, it is recommended that the installer supplies the charger. This ensures compliance with regulations and provides peace of mind for both parties. As approved and regulated installers, we are unable to install chargers that are not compliant.
At our company, we prioritise customer satisfaction and safety. We understand the importance of providing reliable and compliant charging solutions, and we are committed to delivering exceptional services.