So, you’ve finally made the jump to an electric vehicle! Whether you’ve picked up a sleek Tesla, a family-friendly VW ID.4, or a nippy Renault Zoe, one thing is certain: you’re going to need a reliable way to top it up at home.
In Surrey, the demand for EV chargers is skyrocketing. From Redhill to Reigate and beyond, driveways are quickly becoming personal filling stations. But here’s the thing: while there are plenty of people offering to "bang a charger on the wall" for you, an EV charger isn't just another appliance. It’s a high-powered piece of electrical infrastructure that draws a lot of current for hours at a time.
Choosing the wrong installer can lead to more than just a slow charge; it can lead to safety risks, invalidated warranties, and expensive repairs down the line.
To help you navigate the process, we’ve put together the 5 most common mistakes we see people make when choosing an EV charger installer in Surrey.
1. Choosing a Generalist Over a Certified EV Specialist
It’s tempting to call up your "handy" mate or a general electrician who usually just changes lightbulbs. However, EV charging is a specialist field within the electrical industry.
The IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology) has a specific Code of Practice for EV charging equipment installation. A specialist installer will understand the nuances of earthing arrangements (very important for safety!), the specific types of RCD (Residual Current Device) protection required, and how to safely integrate the charger into your home's existing setup.
At ADS Electrical, we are NICEIC Approved Contractors. This means our work is regularly assessed to ensure it meets the highest safety standards. When you choose a certified specialist, you aren't just paying for the install; you’re paying for the peace of mind that your house won't trip every time you plug in your car.
2. Skipping the Electrical Load Assessment
One of the biggest red flags to look out for is an installer who gives you a quote over the phone without asking about your current electrical system.
Before a charger is installed, a proper professional should check your main fuse rating and your consumer unit. Most standard UK homes have a 60-amp or 100-amp main fuse. An EV charger can draw 32 amps on its own. If your shower is running, the oven is on, and the car starts charging, you could easily blow your main fuse if a proper load assessment hasn't been done.
A good installer will check if your supply can handle the extra load. If it can't, they might recommend a charger with "load balancing" features that automatically throttle the charging speed when other appliances are in use, or they'll help you arrange a fuse upgrade with the network operator.
3. Chasing the "Cheapest Quote" and Missing the Fine Print
We all love a bargain, but with EV chargers, the cheapest quote often leaves out essential safety components.
Ask yourself: does the quote include Surge Protection Devices (SPDs)? Modern EVs are basically giant computers on wheels. A power surge can fry your car's expensive electronics. New electrical regulations actually require surge protection in most cases, but some low-cost installers skip it to keep their prices down.
You should also check what’s included in the "standard installation."
- How many metres of cabling are included?
- Does it include drilling through walls or lifting floorboards?
- Is the installer providing the EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) or a minor works certificate upon completion?
If a quote seems too good to be true, it’s usually because they’re cutting corners on the hardware or the labour.
4. Forgetting About the Paperwork (The DNO Notification)
This is a big one that many "fly-by-night" installers ignore. In the UK, you are legally required to notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO): the company that owns the wires in the street: when you install an EV charger.
In Surrey, this is usually UK Power Networks. The DNO needs to know where chargers are being installed so they can manage the local power grid effectively. If your installer doesn't handle this paperwork, you could face issues later if the grid in your street becomes overloaded or if you try to sell your home and can't prove the installation was correctly registered.
Always ask your installer: "Will you handle the DNO notification for me?" A professional service will include this as part of the package.
5. Overlooking Future-Proofing and Smart Features
Technology moves fast. Choosing the cheapest "dumb" charger might save you a few pounds today, but it could cost you more tomorrow.
The best installers will talk to you about Smart Charging. This allows you to schedule your charging for the middle of the night when electricity is cheapest (often via EV-specific tariffs). Some chargers also integrate with solar panels, allowing you to charge your car entirely for free using the sun!
Furthermore, consider where the charger is placed. Is it in a spot where it can reach a second car if you become a two-EV household? Does the installer offer a warranty on their workmanship, not just the unit itself?
If you have questions about which charger is right for your specific needs, checking out an Electrical FAQ can often clear up the basics before you book a survey.
Why Local Matters: The Surrey Advantage
Choosing a local installer like ADS Electrical means you get someone who knows the area and can provide fast aftercare. We’ve worked on everything from single-unit domestic installs in Redhill to large-scale LED lighting and power projects for commercial clients. We pride ourselves on providing quotes within 24 hours and ensuring every job is completed to the highest standard.
Don't let a bad installation ruin the excitement of your new electric car. Avoid these mistakes by choosing a team that values safety, compliance, and transparent pricing.
Ready to get your home EV-ready? Contact ADS Electrical today for a free quote and professional advice on your installation.