Electric Car Charger Installation FAQs
Got questions about EV charger installation? Our expert Kildare electricians answer the most common queries about home setups, safety, and more.
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What type of electric car charger is best for home installation?
The most common choice for Irish homeowners is a 7kW wall-mounted charger. It offers a great balance between charging speed and compatibility with most home electrical systems. These chargers typically provide a full charge overnight, making them ideal for daily use.
If you’re unsure which charger suits your vehicle or home, our team can assess your setup and make tailored recommendations. Learn more on our dedicated EV charger installation page.
Do I need a qualified electrician for EV charger installation?
Yes, hiring a certified electrician is not just recommended; it’s a requirement to meet Irish safety standards. Proper installation ensures the charger is integrated with your home’s electrical system safely and efficiently. It also ensures you’re eligible for grants from SEAI and helps avoid costly faults later.
Our Kildare-based electricians are experienced with EV charger installations and fully registered.
Can I get a grant to install an EV charger at home?
Yes, through the SEAI EV Home Charger Grant, homeowners can receive up to €300 towards the cost of purchasing and installing a home charger. To qualify, you must meet certain criteria — for example, the charger must be installed by a registered electrician, and the property must have a dedicated off-street parking space.
We guide customers through the process and help ensure grant eligibility. For more details, see the full information on EV Home Charger Grants
How long does installation take?
In most cases, the installation takes between 2–4 hours. The process involves mounting the unit, wiring it into your fuse board, and ensuring safety compliance with Irish regulations.
For more complex homes (especially older properties), the process might take longer, especially if additional safety upgrades are required, such as installing a new isolator or fuse board.
Do I need to upgrade my fuse board for an EV charger?
It depends on the condition and capacity of your existing fuse board. Modern EV chargers require a stable, high-capacity supply to function properly and safely. If your current fuse board is outdated or lacks room for additional circuits, it may need to be upgraded.
We regularly carry out fuse board upgrades in Kildare as part of EV charger installations.
Are smart chargers worth it?
Definitely. Smart chargers allow you to schedule charging during off-peak hours, monitor your electricity usage, and sometimes integrate with solar panels or home automation systems. These features can help you save money and make your home more energy efficient.
Smart chargers are also more future-ready, offering remote updates and greater flexibility for new EV models.
Can I install an EV charger outside?
Yes, most EV chargers are weatherproof and designed for outdoor use. They are usually installed on an external wall near your parking space. Installers ensure that the unit is mounted safely, with proper cable routing and protection from the elements.
If your property layout poses challenges, we’ll help find a safe and convenient solution.
Do I need permission from my electricity provider or the council?
Generally, you don’t need planning permission to install a charger at home. However, your electrician may need to notify ESB Networks if the charger exceeds certain power levels. This is standard for any substantial addition to your electrical load.
Rest assured, our team takes care of all necessary notifications and compliance checks as part of the installation.
