Switching to an electric vehicle is one of the most significant changes a driver can make, and charging infrastructure is central to making it work practically. While it is possible to charge from a standard 3-pin socket, this is slow (typically 8–12 hours for a full charge), places sustained load on household wiring not designed for it, and is not recommended for regular use. A dedicated home EV charger changes everything: a 7kW unit will fully charge most electric cars overnight.
Home EV chargers in the UK are rated at either 3.6kW (single-phase, 16A) or 7.4kW (single-phase, 32A). Most households opt for the 7.4kW option, which requires a dedicated 6mm² circuit from the consumer unit. Some properties can accommodate a 22kW three-phase unit, though this requires a three-phase supply (not available in all homes). Smart chargers — units with Wi-Fi connectivity and app control — allow you to schedule charging during off-peak electricity tariff periods, which can significantly reduce running costs.
The installation process begins with a site survey to assess the route for the new circuit, the location of the consumer unit, and the most practical position for the charge point. Most installations are completed in a single day. The new circuit is run from the consumer unit to the charge point location, the unit is mounted and connected, and the system is commissioned and tested. We register the installation with OZEV and provide a full Electrical Installation Certificate.
Costs vary depending on the charger model, the complexity of the cable run, and any civil works required (such as routing cables under driveways or through walls). DP Power Solutions provides a fixed-price quotation following the site survey. We can advise on current OZEV grant schemes and help you select a charger model that suits your vehicle and usage patterns.
About DP Power Solutions: We are qualified domestic electricians based in Staffordshire, providing EICRs, consumer unit upgrades, rewires, EV charger installation, and more across Cannock, Rugeley, Lichfield, Stafford, and the surrounding area.