Installing EV Charging In Your Home

Electric vehicles are increasing in popularity so the need for EV charging points to be installed within residential homes is of course on the rise. Here we look at your guide to installing an EV charging point in your home.

Choosing the right EV charger for your requirements is the first thing to think about lets look at how to choose the best option for you –

Charging rate – You will need to check the charging rate of your vehicle to determined which charging rate to go for. A EV that charges at 11kW can only charge at a maximum of 7kW on a 7kW charger however if you use a 22kW charger it will charge at 11kW.
Your power supply – Most UK homes will only charge at a ,maximum of 7kW, it can prove very expensive to upgrade to a faster output.
Tethered or untethered – Tethered charges have a cable attached, untethered do not. Tethered cables don’t work with all EVs and untethered cables can fit most EVs but you will need to keep the charger in the car at all times.
Design – This comes down to aesthetics, there are different options to choose from so you can choose which one matches your home best.
Cost -The more powerful the charger, the higher the cost. You maybe eligible for a government grant of up to 75% in some cases.

Where to install your EV charger?

When choosing to install an EV charger we always recommend to choose a qualified fitter such as CJ Electrical. We will conduct a visit to ensure we can install a EV charging point and the best place to do this.

We will take into consideration the following ;

Where you park – Can the cable reach the vehicle
Where is the charge point on the car? Whether it is at the front, rear or side of the car will determine a charge point location
How long is the charging cable – This will need to be considered to ensure the cable reaches without being overstretched
Discretion – We will look at the most discrete positioning to place to EV charge point for you

We also are asked do you need planning permission for an EV charge point. You do not need planning permission if the charge point does not-

Face onto a highway or be within 2 metres of a highway
Exceed 0.2 metres
Be within or on a listed building

If you are needing a EV charge point or want to know more contact the experts at CJ electrical today and we will be happy to help.

Choosing the right EV charging solution for your needs

If you have bought your first electric vehicle, how do you decide on the best EV charging solution for your needs. Here we will look at the different charging solutions available for charging your EV to help you along the way.

In our experience anyone with an EV will most certainly want to be charging their vehicle at home as much as you can. This is not only more convenient, but it is often also cheaper.

When you are looking at a charging solution for your EV there are three things to consider mainly.

These are the output of the household circuit you are connecting to, the output of the EV charger and the rate of charging that your vehicle itself can handle.

What are the different types of EV chargers?

EV Chargers are divided into three tiers. Level 1 and Level to are 120 Volt and 240 volt electricity and this is how your house is wired. The next level is 3 which is DC- fast charging which is 400 to 800 volts which is available only at a dedicated EV charging point.

What is the difference between level 1, 2 and 3 charging?

The difference between the levels in charging is the charging speed. Level 1 is the slowest charging speed which would take a few days to fully charge your vehicle. Level 2 is the charge level mainly used for in home charging which can charge your EV overnight. Level 3 is the fastest charging point which can top your charge in as little as half an hour.

When choosing the right charging solution for your needs you will need to ensure that you read your EV vehicle manual fully to determine the correct level of charge for your vehicle is used.

Charging solutions for home ev charging vary and it is always in your best interest to speak to the experts such as us here at CJ Electrical. We can provide you with impartial advice and make sure that the right charging solution is installed for you and your vehicle. Contact us today for a friendly informal chat about how we can help you.

Tips to prepare your home for installing an electric charger

When you are planning on having an electric charge point installed in your home for your electric vehicle there are a few steps to follow that will make the process run smoothly and ensure that the process cause very little disruption.

We have put together 5 tips to follow to help you with this.

Decide on a charging type – There are different levels of charging to choose from so the first thing to think about is the charging level that you require for your home charging point. You will either chose from level 1 charging or level 2 charging. Level one charging will take around 24 hours to charge your car. Level 2 charging will take hours and 30 minutes charge can get you around 60-200 miles on average.

Prepare your space – You need to ensure that there is adequate space, and it is free from clutter when you choose to have an EV installed in your home.

Locate your power panel – Your homes power panel distributes the electricity throughout your home. You need to make sure it is rated and measured for maximum flow. The amperes are usually printed on the circuit breaker in your home. When you have found your power panel you need to find out how much power you use monthly. To do this is usually best to ask one of our professionals to check this for you as you don’t want to overload your electric distribution panel.

Use a reputable electrician – Always ensure that you use a reputable electrician. You can discuss any concerns with your electrician about the power consumed within your home and ensure it is ok to add an EV charge point to your circuit breaker. The electrician can then also install your 240 volts plug for you.

Installation – Your now ready to purchase your EV charger and have this installed.

If you are wanting to have an EV charger installed or if you have any questions or queries our friendly experts are on hand to help with all your needs.

Choosing the Right EV Charger: 3.6kW vs. 7kW for Your Business Fleet

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction in the United Kingdom, businesses are increasingly adopting EVs for their fleets. One crucial consideration when transitioning to electric mobility is selecting the appropriate charger. In this article, we will delve into the choice between 3.6kW and 7kW chargers, highlighting the factors that UK businesses should consider to make an informed decision.

Understanding Charger Power Ratings

In the UK, the power rating of EV chargers is typically measured in kilowatts (kW). The charger’s power output directly impacts the charging speed of your EV. To determine which charger suits your business, it’s crucial to comprehend the implications of these power ratings, especially in a business context. Factors such as the size of your fleet and the daily driving patterns of your employees will heavily influence this decision.

The Advantages of a 3.6kW Charger

A 3.6kW charger is a sensible choice for businesses with smaller EV batteries and shorter daily driving ranges. This charger offers several advantages, including cost-effectiveness, reduced electricity consumption, and compatibility with standard electrical circuits. For businesses that primarily charge their EVs overnight, the 3.6kW charger is a practical and economical solution.

The Benefits of a 7kW Charger

Businesses with larger EV batteries and more extensive daily driving requirements may find the 7kW charger better suited to their needs. Its faster charging times, especially crucial for daily commuting, can significantly enhance employee productivity. Moreover, 7kW chargers are compatible with higher-capacity electrical circuits, potentially future-proofing your charging infrastructure as your fleet expands.

Considerations for Choosing Between 3.6kW and 7kW Chargers

The decision between these two charger options should be based on a thorough analysis of your business’s unique requirements. Key considerations include your fleet’s daily mileage, charging frequency, the cost difference between chargers and installation, and an assessment of your facility’s electrical capacity. Forward-thinking businesses should also factor in potential EV upgrades in the future.

Case Studies and Real-World Scenarios

To illustrate the practical implications of this decision, let’s explore a couple of real-world scenarios:

The Commuter Fleet: A business with a fleet of smaller EVs primarily used for daily commuting may find the 7kW charger overkill. The 3.6kW charger would likely suffice for overnight charging, keeping operational costs in check.
The Delivery Fleet: A company with larger EVs used for deliveries, covering substantial distances daily, would benefit significantly from the faster charging times offered by the 7kW charger. It ensures vehicles are ready for action during peak hours.

Installation and Compatibility

Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to consider the installation process. Ensure that your chosen charger is compatible with the make and model of your EVs. Additionally, consult with electricians who specialize in EV charger installation to assess and upgrade your facility’s electrical infrastructure if necessary.

Cost Considerations

When contemplating the cost of EV charging, it’s more than just the purchase price. Consider long-term operating costs, electricity consumption, and potential savings or benefits associated with either charger option. Businesses must factor these into their financial projections.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of electric mobility, making the right choice between a 3.6kW and 7kW charger is pivotal for UK businesses. By evaluating your fleet’s unique needs, considering future growth, and factoring in installation and operating costs, you can ensure that your business’s transition to electric vehicles is not only seamless but also cost-effective. Remember, the right charger is not just about ev charging vehicles; it’s about charging your business for a sustainable and efficient future in the UK’s evolving EV landscape.

How often should I charge my EV to 100%

Many people with an EV question whether or not they should charge their EV to 100. Here we will look at some hints and tips about charging your EV to help you ensure that you get the best from your battery.

You can fully charge the battery to 100% on your EV but you must not let it overcharge as this can be dangerous and damage the battery.
It is best to fully charge the battery once it has completely ran out as apposed to topping the battery up here and there as this will keep the battery in much better condition.
We would recommend not to charge the battery every night as this will also cause the battery to become damaged. As mentioned above it is much better to allow the battery to deplete.
Most of the EV manufacturers’ recommendations are to charge the battery to 80% or 90% rather than a full 100% charge when using the vehicle for everyday driving. Manufacturers say that this will prolong the life of the battery. They recommend only charging to 100% for long journeys.
Fast charging your battery is also recommended to be kept to a minimum.
It is said that electric vehicles should be kept out of extreme temperatures as excessive heat or excessive cold will drain the battery life.
When your EV is stored and not being used it is recommended that it is between 25% and 75% charge rather than fully charged this helps to prolong the battery.

Hopefully these hints and tips will help all of you EV owners to keep your battery in tip top condition. As we have mentioned it is possible and you can charge your EV to 100% and it is good to do this rather than mini charges. However never overcharge your battery as this will be detrimental to the battery life.

Stellantis Aims to Ease ‘Charging Concerns’ with New Service for EV Users

Stellantis, one of the world’s largest car manufacturers (Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, et al) is taking a proactive step towards resolving the inadequate charging network and mitigating ‘charging concerns’ for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. The company has introduced a dedicated business unit called ‘Charging & Energy’ to cater to the growing needs of greener mobility services. With the launch of the unit, Stellantis aims to simplify the charging process for EV owners and ensure their vehicles stay on the road. One of the key offerings of this initiative is the Free2move Charge platform, which grants access to an extensive network of over 500,000 charging points in Europe through collaborative partnerships.

Launch of Charging & Energy Business Unit:

Recognising the challenges faced by EV drivers and the urgent need for a reliable charging infrastructure, Stellantis has established the ‘Charging & Energy’ business unit. The primary objective of this unit is to facilitate the seamless adoption of electric vehicles and alleviate the anxieties surrounding charging. By focusing on greener mobility services, Stellantis intends to empower EV drivers and encourage their transition to sustainable transportation alternatives.

Free2move Charge Platform:

At the heart of Stellantis’ Charging & Energy business unit lies the Free2move Charge platform. This platform offers a range of customer services, including access to an extensive network of 500,000 charging points across Europe. Stellantis plans to achieve this ambitious goal by forming strategic partnerships with various stakeholders in the industry by the end of the year. By providing widespread access to charging infrastructure, Stellantis aims to address the current insufficiency in the charging network, which often leads to ‘charging concerns’ among EV drivers.

Addressing Charging Network Insufficiency:

One of the primary drivers of ‘charging concerns’ for EV owners is the lack of a robust charging infrastructure across the industry. Stellantis recognises this pressing issue and aims to alleviate it by establishing a widespread network of charging points. By offering access to over 500,000 charging points through Free2move Charge, Stellantis seeks to instill confidence in EV drivers and eliminate the fear of being stranded due to a lack of available charging options.

Evaluation of Tesla Charging Standard:

While other automakers have already embraced Tesla’s charging standard, Stellantis is still evaluating its viability and compatibility. Competitors such as Ford and General Motors have already signed agreements to adopt Tesla’s charging standard in North America. Stellantis remains committed to exploring all available options and ensuring that the chosen charging standard aligns with their long-term goals and objectives. Further details regarding Stellantis’ evaluation process will be disclosed in due course.

Business Opportunities and Services:

Stellantis recognises the vast business opportunities that emerge from operating charging stations. Beyond energy charging alone, the Charging & Energy Business Unit envisions providing additional services such as advertising and media consumption. By leveraging the Free2move Charge ecosystem, Stellantis aims to offer comprehensive support for home charging facility installation and cater to the charging needs of businesses. This multifaceted approach not only supports EV drivers but also opens up new revenue streams for Stellantis in the evolving electric vehicle market.

Future Investments and Partnerships:

Stellantis is prepared to make substantial investments in its Charging & Energy business unit to fuel its growth and expansion. Key partners, including energy companies, retailers, hardware manufacturers, and utilities, will play a crucial role in the development of Stellantis’ charging infrastructure. Throughout 2023, Stellantis plans to reveal more details about its financial targets and partnerships, demonstrating its commitment to driving the transition towards sustainable mobility.

Conclusion:

Stellantis’ introduction of the ‘Charging & Energy’ business unit marks a significant milestone in addressing the challenges faced by EV drivers concerning the accessibility of charging infrastructure. Through the innovative Free2move Charge platform, Stellantis aims to provide EV owners with access to an extensive network of charging points across Europe. Moreover, Stellantis recognises the diverse business opportunities beyond energy charging, including advertising and media consumption, which will enhance the overall EV ownership experience. As Stellantis evaluates Tesla’s charging standard and forges strategic partnerships, the company’s vision for a comprehensive and efficient EV charging market continues to take shape.

Tesla Charging Technology on Track to Become the Standard in North America – A Sign of Things to Come for the UK

The electric-vehicle charging landscape in North America is undergoing a significant transformation as Tesla’s charging technology gains traction. This surge in popularity positions Tesla’s charging system to become the standard across America, aligning with the company’s vision of expanding access to its once-exclusive chargers.

Embracing Tesla’s Charging Design:

Notable automakers such as Volvo and Ford have recently partnered with Tesla, embracing its charging technology. This partnership represents a shift away from previous attempts to establish the Combined Charging System (CCS) as the dominant standard in the United States.

SAE International’s Initiative:

SAE International, a respected standards organisation, has set forth an ambitious initiative to establish an industry-standard configuration for Tesla’s charging connector within a span of six months or less. Ongoing discussions involving Tesla, Ford, other car manufacturers, and the government aim to streamline and standardise the charging infrastructure.

Collaborative Approach:

Unlike the past, where a single company dictated the charging standard, the process of developing this unified plug standard is now a collaborative endeavour. Multiple companies are working in tandem to create a standardised plug that meets the needs of all stakeholders. While Tesla refers to its technology as the “North American Charging Standard (NACS),” it still awaits approval from SAE International for wider adoption, but once this is achieved, a rollout to the Uk is probably inevitable.

Expansion of Charging Network:

In a bid to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, the United States is targeting the installation of a vast network comprising 1.2 million public electric-vehicle chargers by 2030. This network will include 1 million Level 2 chargers, providing greater accessibility and convenience for EV owners. Similarly, the UK is likely to follow suit, reinforcing the global push toward electric mobility.

Investment Requirements:

The establishment of an extensive public charging network in the UK necessitates a substantial investment of an estimated £33 billion to £55 billion in cumulative public and private capital. These figures, projected by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in the United States, underscore the significant financial commitment required to support the transition to electric vehicles.

Federal Subsidies and State Mandates:

To incentivize the expansion of electric-vehicle charging infrastructure, the White House has announced that charging stations equipped with Tesla-standard plugs will be eligible for federal subsidies. However, to ensure compatibility and inclusivity, these stations will also need to include the CCS connection. States such as Texas and Washington have already expressed their intent to mandate the use of both NACS and CCS connectors as part of their federal programs.

Tesla’s electric-vehicle charging technology is rapidly gaining acceptance and support from major automakers, marking a turning point in the evolution of the charging ecosystem. SAE International’s initiative seeks to establish Tesla’s charging connector as the industry standard, streamlining the charging experience for electric-vehicle owners. This unified plug standard is expected to bolster the expansion of the electric-vehicle charging network in the United States, requiring significant investment. The Biden administration’s goal of deploying public chargers and offering federal subsidies for Tesla-standard plugs further underscores the region’s steady shift toward embracing electric mobility.

Can I charge an EV with a normal plug?

We are often asked if you can charge an electric vehicle at home via a normal plug. The simple answer to this is yes you can, however we do not recommend it and here we will look at why.

Charging your EV using a normal plug rather than a dedicated EV charging point will mean that it can take up to 24 hours to charge your car. Given that most of us have busy schedules waiting for 24 hours is often not an option for many of us.

Charging an EV using a normal 3 pin plug socket can also overload the circuit which can in turn lead to dangerous electric trips and even electrical fires, so it is always worth installing a dedicated charging point if you have an EV.

The benefits of installing a dedicated EV charging point;

You will save money – In the long run installing a charging point will save you money with lower tariffs than EV charging points. Ensuring you have a dedicated charging point rather than a standard plug will also keep the costs down
Faster charging – A dedicated charging point will charge your car in as little as 4-6 hours, using a standard plug
Convenient – A dedicated charging point is more convenient than having to travel to charge your car which takes a number of hours
Keep the EV battery in good health – Using a dedicated charger and charging in full rather than little and often will preserve the lifespan of you EV battery
Increase the value of your property – EVs are increasing in popularity so by installing an EV charging point you will be adding value to your home

So, in short you can charge your EV from a normal plug socket however it is against our advice as a professional electrical company. If you have a need for charging an EV please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be more than happy to help and discuss your requirements.

Is it worth charging an EV at home?

When you choose to purchase an electric vehicle, you will need to decide if it is worth charging at home or if you will use external EV charging points.

If you have an EV it is generally a good choice to install an EV charging point at your home as this will mean that charging is quicker, more convenient, and usually the most cost effective way of charging your vehicle.

If you wish to charge your EV at home you will need the following;

An electric charger point installed by a professional
A garage or driveway – you cannot charge an EV parked on the street
The correct cables to charge your vehicle

If you do choose to charge your EV at home you will need to ensure that you always follow the instructions that come with the vehicle. If you do not follow the instructions, you may find yourself having problems including breaking the charge port or the car not charging.

The main things to consider when charging you EV at home are the following;

Make sure your car is parked close to the charging point to avoid over stretching the cables
Connect the EV to the charging point using the correct cables
Once the vehicle is charged you will need to disconnect and store the charging cables in the correct way

To install a EV charger you must ensure that you use a professional such as our fully qualified team at CJ Electrical. We will initially come and take a look at the point where the charging point is required, we will ensure it is safe and practical. We will then provide you with a free no obligation quote, prices usually start from around £800. Our chargers are available at different speeds, the faster the charger the higher the cost. We will check your property to ensure the wiring can handle the voltage of a EV charging point. If you require any re wiring, we can also quote for this.

It maybe worth checking also as some people are eligible for a government grant towards installing an electric charging point which is a great help for many.

There are many benefits of installing an EV charging point at home if you choose to have an EV not only the convenience but after the initial outlay cost for installation it will be likely to work out cheaper for you In the long run to charge your vehicle this way.

If you are thinking of installing an EV charging point contact our experts today and we will be more than happy to help.

Uncovering the Lifespan of Electric Car Batteries

The world is rapidly transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), and with this shift comes a range of questions about the longevity of EV batteries. How long do they last? What are the common misconceptions? What can be done to extend their life? This article will explore the composition of electric car batteries, their expected lifespan, and the best practices for EV charging.

Exploring the Composition of Electric Car Batteries

Electric car batteries are composed of rechargeable lithium-ion cells, which are similar to the batteries found in phones and other electronic devices. However, EV batteries are designed to last much longer, with an expected lifespan of up to 100,000 to 200,000 miles or 15 to 20 years. This is due to their superior protection mechanisms and their ability to withstand more charging cycles.

Debunking Battery Longevity Misconceptions

Many people are concerned about the degradation of electric car batteries, based on their experiences with other devices. However, EV batteries are designed to be resilient and can withstand minor annual losses of battery capacity (2.3% on average). There are also numerous real-world examples of EV batteries lasting for many years, such as the Nissan Leaf and Tesla Model S.

Prolonging the Life of Electric Car Batteries

To extend the life of electric car batteries, it is important to follow best charging practices. This includes avoiding charging every night, maintaining a charge between 20% and 80%, and finding the optimal battery state of charge during long storage. Additionally, it is important to be mindful of the cost of EV battery packs, as well as the potential for reuse and recycling of old EV batteries.

Modern EV batteries are designed to last for many years, and with proper care and maintenance, they can last even longer. To learn more about EVs and EV charging, be sure to check out the additional resources listed below.