Understanding what happens during your EV charger installation helps you prepare appropriately and sets realistic expectations for the day. While every installation has unique aspects based on your home specific circumstances, the general process follows a consistent pattern that professional installers execute efficiently.
Before the Installers Arrive
Prior to installation day, ensure the work areas are accessible and clear. This includes the space around your electrical panel and the location where your charger will be mounted. Remove vehicles from the garage if that is where installation occurs, and clear any stored items blocking access to relevant areas.
If the installation involves routing wiring through your attic, ensure attic access is available and not blocked by stored items. Similarly, any crawl spaces or basement areas that installers may need to access should be reasonably clear.
Verify that someone over 18 will be present throughout the installation to answer questions and make decisions if unexpected circumstances arise. While installations typically proceed as planned, occasionally situations require homeowner input on alternatives or options.
Arrival and Initial Assessment
Installation typically begins in the morning to ensure adequate time for completion. Professional installers arrive with all expected materials and tools, having planned the installation based on your previous consultation and site evaluation.
The team begins with a brief walkthrough confirming installation plans and identifying any changes since the evaluation visit. They will verify the charger mounting location, confirm the wiring route, and examine the electrical panel one final time before beginning work.
Installers protect your floors and surfaces with drop cloths in work areas. They establish a clean workspace that contains any debris and prevents damage to your property during the installation process.
Electrical Panel Work
Installation begins at your electrical panel where the new circuit for your charger originates. This work requires temporarily turning off power to your home, typically for 30 minutes to an hour depending on complexity. Installers will inform you before any power interruption occurs.
The electrician installs a new circuit breaker sized appropriately for your charger, usually 40 to 60 amps depending on the installation specifications. They prepare the wiring connection point and ensure the panel remains properly organized with clear labeling.
If your installation requires a sub-panel or panel modifications beyond simple breaker installation, this phase takes longer. Your installer will have explained any such requirements during the consultation and quoting process.
Wiring Installation
With panel preparation complete, installers run electrical wiring from the panel to your charger location. This may involve surface-mounted conduit visible on walls and ceilings, wiring concealed within walls, attic routing, or some combination depending on your home layout and aesthetic preferences.
Proper wire sizing is critical for safe, efficient charging. The thick cables required for EV charging circuits, typically 6-gauge or 8-gauge wire, are less flexible than standard household wiring and require careful routing and support.
All wiring is secured appropriately per electrical codes, with proper support intervals and protection from physical damage. Outdoor portions receive weatherproof conduit and sealing to prevent moisture intrusion.
Charger Mounting and Connection
With wiring in place, installers mount your charging unit at the predetermined location. Wall-mounted units require secure attachment to structural elements capable of supporting the unit weight and any incidental forces from cable manipulation during daily use.
Electrical connections are made inside the charger housing, joining the supply wiring to the charger internal terminals. These connections are critically important and receive careful attention to ensure secure, properly torqued connections that will remain reliable for years.
Testing and Demonstration
Following physical installation, comprehensive testing verifies everything functions correctly. Installers check voltage at the charger, verify ground fault protection operates, and confirm the charger communicates properly with the electrical system.
A test charging session with your vehicle confirms end-to-end functionality. You will see the charger connect, communicate with your vehicle, and begin delivering power. The installer explains any programmable features, demonstrates how to initiate charging, and answers questions about daily operation.
Cleanup and Completion
Professional installers clean up thoroughly before departing. All debris is collected, drop cloths removed, and your garage or installation area returned to its original condition. They will walk you through the completed installation and provide any documentation or warranty information.
ChargeOrlando takes pride in providing a professional, respectful installation experience. Our team treats your home with care and ensures you are completely satisfied before we consider the job complete. Contact us today to begin the process toward convenient home charging.
