Unit 6 Cobham Business Centre, Cobham Road, Ferndown Industrial Estate, Wimborne, Dorset BH21 7BX
Mon–Fri 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
5.0
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The shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) in Bournemouth and the wider Dorset area is accelerating. As more residents in Poole, Ferndown, and Ringwood transition away from petrol and diesel, the demand for reliable domestic charging infrastructure has increased. Installing a dedicated home charger is the most efficient way to manage vehicle battery health and minimize running costs. Our team at Dorset Electrical Solutions handles the technical complexities of these installations, ensuring compliance with all current UK electrical regulations.
Most domestic properties in Bournemouth utilize a 7kW fast charger. This is the standard for home installations because it aligns with the single-phase electricity supply found in the majority of UK residential buildings. A 7kW unit can typically charge a standard EV from empty to full in 6 to 12 hours, making it ideal for overnight use.
When choosing a unit, you must decide between a tethered or an untethered (socketed) charger. A tethered unit comes with a cable permanently attached, providing convenience for daily use. An untethered unit features a socket, requiring you to use your own cable. While untethered units look neater on the wall, tethered units are often preferred for their ease of use. Our electrician Dorset team frequently installs brands such as Ohme, Zappi, and Pod Point, which offer smart features like solar integration and scheduled charging to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs.
The installation of an EV charger is not a simple DIY task; it requires a qualified professional to ensure the safety of your home's electrical system. The process follows a structured sequence to meet electrical maintenance standards.
Before any work begins, we conduct a site survey. This involves assessing your existing consumer unit (fuse box) to determine if it has the capacity for an additional high-load circuit. We also identify the best cable route from the consumer unit to the desired charger location. In some older properties in areas like Westbourne or Charminster, a house rewire or a consumer unit upgrade may be necessary before an EV charger can be safely added.
Your installer must notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). In Bournemouth and Poole, this is typically Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN). We submit the necessary paperwork to ensure the local grid can handle the additional load. In some cases, the DNO may need to upgrade your main fuse before the installation can proceed.
On the day of installation, our team mounts the unit to an external wall or a dedicated pedestal. We run a dedicated circuit from your consumer unit, often using SWA (Steel Wire Armoured) cable for protection. We install necessary safety devices, including Type A RCDs or PEN fault protection, which eliminates the need for an earth rod in many modern installations.
An EV charger is one of the highest-load appliances you will ever add to your home. Therefore, the integrity of your existing electrical system is paramount. This is where EICR regulations for landlords and homeowners become relevant. An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) ensures that your wiring is safe for continued use. If your property hasn't been inspected recently, we recommend an EICR before installing an EV charger to identify any underlying issues.
Safety standards require:
Bournemouth features a diverse range of housing, from Victorian terraces to modern apartments. Each property type presents unique installation challenges.
For residents in denser areas of Bournemouth without private driveways, charging can be complex. BCP Council has specific guidelines regarding cables crossing pavements. Solutions include installing gully systems or utilizing rear access where available. If you live in a flat, you may need permission from the freeholder or management company, often requiring a formal planned maintenance agreement.
Modern EV chargers are "smart," meaning they connect to your Wi-Fi. This allows you to monitor usage and schedule charging during "Economy 7" periods or through specific EV tariffs offered by providers like Octopus Energy. If your home has solar panels, we can install chargers that prioritize excess solar energy to charge your car for free.
While we are on-site for an EV charger installation, many customers ask about other home improvements. In Dorset, damp and mould are common issues due to the coastal climate. We often recommend the installation of a PIV unit (Positive Input Ventilation).
A PIV unit helps eliminate condensation and prevents mould growth by circulating fresh, filtered air throughout the property. This is particularly beneficial for landlords in Bournemouth and Poole who need to maintain healthy living conditions for tenants while adhering to strict rental regulations.
The cost of installing an EV charger in Bournemouth typically ranges from £800 to £1,500, depending on the charger model and the complexity of the cable run.
The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) provides grants for certain individuals. While the "Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme" (EVHS) has ended for most homeowners, the grant remains available for:
Our team is OZEV-authorized, meaning we can claim the grant on your behalf, potentially reducing the cost by up to £350.
Choosing a local firm like Dorset Electrical Solutions ensures you receive support from technicians who understand the local grid and housing stock. We provide services across:
Our electricians are NICEIC registered, ensuring all work is certified and logged with local building control. This certification is vital when selling your property or claiming on home insurance.
Before contacting us for a quote, consider the following:
Installing an EV charger is a significant step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. By ensuring the installation is handled by a professional electrician Dorset, you protect your vehicle, your home, and your family.
For more information on our services, including CCTV installation or fire alarms, explore our website. Our team is available for consultations across Bournemouth and the surrounding Dorset areas.
Thanks for reading. If you have questions about your specific property, please contact us directly.
Photos of recent installations in Ringwood and Ferndown to follow.
