Can A Local Electrician Install An EV Charger?

As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity in New Zealand, more homeowners and businesses are looking to install EV chargers for convenient charging at home or work. A common question is whether a local electrician can install an EV charger or if a specialist is required. The answer is yes—most qualified electricians can install EV chargers as long as they follow the necessary safety regulations and standards. However, not every electrician has experience with EV charging systems, so it’s important to choose a professional with the right expertise.

In this guide, we will explore the EV charger installation process, the role of an electrician, and what you need to consider before installing a charger at your property.

How Does EV Charger Installation Work?

Installing an EV charger is more complex than simply plugging in a device. It requires an assessment of your property’s electrical system, compliance with safety regulations, and proper installation techniques to ensure safe and efficient charging. Below, we break down the key steps involved.

1. Assessing Your Electrical System

Before installing an EV charger, an electrician will need to assess whether your existing electrical system can support the additional power demand. Key factors considered include:

• Switchboard capacity: Your switchboard must be able to handle the extra load of an EV charger without overloading existing circuits.
• Available power supply: Most homes in New Zealand have a single-phase power supply, which supports standard 7.4kW EV chargers. If you require a faster charging option (e.g., 22kW), your property will need a three-phase power supply.
• Wiring condition: Older properties may require wiring upgrades to safely accommodate an EV charger.
• Location of the charger: The electrician will check if the chosen installation area has safe and convenient access to power.

Depending on the assessment, some electrical upgrades may be necessary before the charger can be installed.

2. Choosing the Right EV Charger

There are different types of EV chargers available, each with varying speeds and power requirements. Your electrician will help determine the best option based on your vehicle, charging needs, and available electrical capacity. The main charger types include:

• Level 1 chargers (slow charging): These use a standard household power outlet (230V) and can take over 24 hours to fully charge an EV.
• Level 2 chargers (faster home charging): These require a dedicated circuit and typically offer charging speeds of 7.4kW (single-phase) or up to 22kW (three-phase).
• DC fast chargers: Mostly used in commercial locations, these chargers can provide rapid charging but require significant electrical infrastructure.

For most homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the best option as it balances speed and cost-effectiveness.

3. Compliance with New Zealand Electrical Standards

All EV charger installations in New Zealand must comply with safety standards set by WorkSafe NZ and the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). Some key requirements include:

• Licensed electrician: Only a registered electrician can install an EV charger, ensuring all wiring and connections meet safety codes.
• Residual Current Device (RCD): An RCD must be installed with the charger to protect against electrical faults.
• Certificate of Compliance (CoC): After installation, the electrician must provide a CoC, confirming that the work meets legal safety requirements.
• Dedicated circuit: The charger must have its own dedicated circuit to prevent interference with other household appliances.

Failing to meet these requirements could result in electrical hazards and may void your home insurance policy.

4. Installation Process

Once the assessment and preparation are complete, the actual installation process begins. A professional electrician will follow these steps:

1. Mounting the charger: The EV charger is securely mounted in the chosen location, whether it’s a garage, carport, or exterior wall.
2. Running electrical wiring: If necessary, new wiring is installed from the switchboard to the charger.
3. Installing circuit protection: A dedicated circuit breaker is added to the switchboard to protect against overloads.
4. Connecting the charger: The electrician integrates the charger with your home’s electrical system.
5. Testing the system: The electrician performs a series of tests to ensure the charger is functioning correctly and safely.

The entire process usually takes a few hours but may take longer if electrical upgrades are required.

5. Final Testing and Certification

Before completing the installation, the electrician will conduct final tests to verify:

• The charger is providing the correct voltage and current.
• All safety mechanisms, including the RCD, are working properly.
• There are no electrical faults or risks of overheating.

Once the charger is confirmed to be safe, the electrician will issue a Certificate of Compliance. This document is essential for insurance purposes and ensures that the installation meets New Zealand’s electrical safety regulations.

6. Ongoing Maintenance and Safety Tips

To ensure long-term reliability and safety, it’s recommended to:

• Inspect the charger regularly for signs of damage or wear.
• Keep the charging cable free from twists and kinks to avoid damage.
• Schedule periodic electrical checks to confirm safe operation.

Following these steps will help maximise the lifespan of your EV charger while ensuring safe and efficient operation.