Garage EV Charger Installation Complete Guide UK 2025

Installing an EV charger in your garage offers significant advantages over external wall mounting: protection from weather, enhanced security, integrated cable management, and a tidier appearance. However, garage installations present unique challenges—power supply routing, ventilation requirements, internal vs external mounting decisions, and WiFi connectivity concerns.

This comprehensive guide covers everything UK homeowners need to know about garage EV charger installation, from assessing your garage's suitability to understanding costs (£900-£1,800 typical) and navigating the specific technical requirements of garage-based charging.

Why Install an EV Charger in Your Garage?

Advantages of Garage Installation

✅ Weather protection - Charger shielded from rain, snow, UV radiation
✅ Enhanced security - Reduced tampering/vandalism risk (garage door locked)
✅ Cable management - Can leave cable permanently plugged in (if internal mounting)
✅ Aesthetics - Hidden from street view (better property appearance)
✅ Convenience - Park, plug, close garage door (single workflow)
✅ Reduced cable wear - Protected environment extends cable lifespan
✅ Noise reduction - Fan noise (some chargers) contained in garage
✅ Future-proofing - Easier to upgrade/add second charger later

Disadvantages to Consider

❌ Installation complexity - Power cable routing from consumer unit to garage
❌ Higher cost - £100-400 more than external wall mounting (longer cable runs)
❌ Ventilation requirements - Adequate airflow needed for charger and vehicle
❌ WiFi connectivity - Signal may be weak in garage (affects smart features)
❌ Space constraints - Need clearance for vehicle + opening doors
❌ Damp issues - Some garages suffer from condensation/moisture

When Garage Installation Makes Sense

✅ Integrated/attached garage - Adjacent to house (shorter power cable run)
✅ Regular parking - You use garage nightly (not storage space)
✅ Good ventilation - Windows, vents, or air bricks present
✅ Adequate electrical capacity - Consumer unit has 32A spare capacity
✅ Secure property - Lower vandalism risk makes external mounting viable too
✅ HOA/conservation restrictions - External chargers prohibited or discouraged

Internal vs External Mounting: Decision Guide

Internal Mounting (Inside Garage)

Configuration: Charger mounted on internal garage wall, cable reaches vehicle inside garage.

Best for:

• Garages you park in nightly
• Properties wanting maximum discretion
• Areas with harsh weather
• Security-conscious homeowners

Advantages:

• ✅ Maximum weather protection
• ✅ Completely hidden from view
• ✅ Enhanced security
• ✅ Cable never exposed to elements
• ✅ Can leave cable plugged in continuously

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Must open garage to charge (if door closed)
• ❌ Limited charger choice (some unsuitable for enclosed spaces)
• ❌ Ventilation requirements stricter
• ❌ WiFi signal often weaker

Installation considerations:

• Charger positioned where accessible with garage door open/closed
• Adequate clearance when vehicle parked (60cm minimum around charger)
• Ventilation assessment critical
• Cable length appropriate for garage depth

External Mounting (Outside Garage)

Configuration: Charger mounted on external garage wall, cable reaches driveway.

Best for:

• Garages you don't park in (storage, workshop)
• Detached garages far from house
• Properties with multiple vehicles (charge on driveway)
• Garages without adequate internal space

Advantages:

• ✅ Charge without opening garage
• ✅ Better WiFi signal (closer to house/router)
• ✅ Better ventilation (open air)
• ✅ Easier access for multiple vehicles
• ✅ Simpler installation (often shorter cable run from consumer unit)

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Charger exposed to weather (requires IP54+ rating)
• ❌ Visible from street/neighbours
• ❌ Cable exposed when not in use
• ❌ Potential vandalism/tampering

Installation considerations:

• Weather-resistant charger essential (IP54 minimum, IP65 better)
• Mounting height (prevents flooding, reduces tampering)
• Cable management for when not charging
• Planning permission (some areas restrict external installations)

Hybrid Approach: Internal Charger, External Access

Configuration: Charger inside garage, cable fed through purpose-built aperture to driveway.

How it works:

• Charger mounted just inside garage
• Small hole drilled through garage wall (10-15cm diameter)
• Cable fed through when needed
• Aperture sealed with brush plate or grommet

Advantages:

• ✅ Charger protected (inside)
• ✅ Charge without opening garage
• ✅ Good security (charger hidden)
• ✅ Flexible (can charge inside or outside)

Disadvantages:

• ❌ Cable exposed outdoors when in use
• ❌ Hole in garage wall (structural alteration)
• ❌ Weatherproofing around aperture critical

Best for: Garages used for storage where you park on driveway but want charger protection.

Garage Types: Specific Considerations

Integrated/Attached Garage

Definition: Garage forming part of house structure (shared walls).

Electrical supply: Usually easiest—consumer unit in house, short cable run to garage.

Typical installation:

1. Cable routed from consumer unit (in house) through shared wall to garage
2. Armoured cable (SWA) through wall cavity or surface-mounted in conduit
3. Charger mounted on garage wall
4. Total cable run: 5-15 metres typical

Costs: £900-1,200 (shorter cable run reduces labour)

WiFi connectivity: Usually good (garage adjacent to house)

Ventilation: Often adequate (garage opens to house or has access door/window)

Detached Garage

Definition: Free-standing garage separate from house.

Electrical supply: More complex—power must be routed from house consumer unit to garage.

Options:

Option 1: Underground Cable (preferred)

• Armoured cable (SWA) buried underground
• Depth: 600mm minimum (to prevent damage)
• Protected by conduit
• Permanent, weatherproof solution

Cost: £1,200-1,800 (includes trenching, cable, backfilling)

Option 2: Overhead Cable

• Cable suspended between house and garage
• Requires sturdy mounting points
• Must meet height clearances (building regs)
• Less aesthetically pleasing

Cost: £1,000-1,400 (no trenching required)

Option 3: Existing Garage Supply Upgrade

If garage already has electrical supply (lighting, sockets):

• Check cable rating (EV charger needs 10mm² minimum for 32A)
• Existing supply often inadequate (2.5mm² typical for lights/sockets)
• Usually requires new cable installation anyway

WiFi connectivity: Often poor (distance from house/router)

Solutions:

• WiFi extender positioned near garage
• Powerline adapter (internet through electrical cables)
• Mobile data (charger with SIM card support)
• Accept reduced functionality (no smart features)

Ventilation: Usually excellent (detached, often with windows/air bricks)

Shared/Terraced Garage Block

Definition: Row of garages, individually owned, sharing walls.

Challenges:

• Power supply routing complex (may cross neighbours' property)
• Planning permission often required
• Shared wall mounting concerns

Approach:

1. Consult solicitor (understand property rights)
2. Speak with neighbours (notify of plans)
3. Check deeds (any restrictions on alterations)
4. Apply for necessary permissions
5. Use experienced installer familiar with shared garages

Costs: £1,200-2,000 (complexity premium)

Rented Garage/Lease

Challenge: Installing permanent fixtures in non-owned property.

Approach:

1. Get landlord written permission
2. Clarify: who pays installation cost
3. Clarify: who owns charger (removable on exit?)
4. Document agreement
5. Consider portable charger (granny charger) as alternative

Recommendation: Only invest if long-term lease and agreement protects your investment.

Power Supply: Technical Requirements

Electrical Capacity Assessment

What your garage needs for 7kW EV charger:

• Circuit breaker: 32A Type B or Type C MCB
• Cable: 10mm² armoured (SWA) minimum from consumer unit to garage
• Consumer unit capacity: 32A spare capacity
• Earth bonding: Proper earth connection in garage
• RCD protection: 30mA Type A RCD (often integrated in charger)

Cable Routing Options

Route 1: Through Wall Cavity (Integrated Garage)

Best for: Attached garages with cavity walls.

Process:

1. Identify route from consumer unit to garage wall
2. Drill through cavity (cavity wall insulation may need moving)
3. Feed armoured cable through
4. Make good both sides (plaster, fill)

Cost: £100-200 labour (included in standard installation)

Route 2: Surface-Mounted in Conduit

Best for: Solid walls or where cavity access impossible.

Process:

1. Run armoured cable externally from consumer unit to garage
2. Protect cable in plastic or metal conduit
3. Secure to walls with clips
4. Paint conduit to match wall colour

Cost: £150-250 labour

Aesthetics: Less attractive than concealed but functional.

Route 3: Underground (Detached Garage)

Best for: Detached garages across garden/driveway.

Process:

1. Mark route (avoid utilities, tree roots)
2. Excavate trench (600mm deep minimum)
3. Lay protective ducting
4. Install armoured cable
5. Backfill and reinstate surface

Cost: £400-800 (labour + materials for trenching)

Advantages: Invisible, permanent, protected.

Route 4: Overhead (Detached Garage)

Best for: Situations where underground impractical (paved driveway, buried utilities).

Process:

1. Install sturdy mounting brackets on house and garage
2. Tension wire or rigid conduit between buildings
3. Suspend armoured cable
4. Ensure adequate height clearance (3.5m over access areas)

Cost: £300-600

Disadvantages: Visible, potential sag over time.

Garage Consumer Unit (Sub-Board)

For complex garages (multiple circuits, future expansion), some installers recommend:

Garage sub-board:

• Small consumer unit mounted in garage
• Fed from main house consumer unit (single large cable)
• Contains MCBs for: EV charger, garage lights, garage sockets

Benefits:

• Easier future additions (second charger, equipment)
• Better cable management
• Local isolation (can turn off garage power without affecting house)

Cost: £200-400 additional

Worth it? If planning future electrical additions (workshop tools, second charger), yes. For charger-only, not necessary.

Ventilation Requirements UK

EV chargers generate heat during operation (losses from AC-DC conversion). Adequate ventilation prevents overheating and ensures safe operation.

Why Ventilation Matters

Charger heat generation:

• 7kW charger efficiency: ~97%
• Heat generated: ~210W continuous (equivalent to 2-3 incandescent bulbs)
• Over 8-hour charging session: Significant heat accumulation in enclosed space

Vehicle considerations:

• EVs also generate heat during charging (battery and onboard charger)
• Combined charger + vehicle heat can raise garage temperature 5-10°C

Concerns:

• Charger overheating → reduced output or shutdown
• Condensation from temperature differentials
• Battery charging efficiency reduces at elevated temperatures

Minimum Ventilation Standards

UK Building Regulations and charger manufacturers recommend:

For chargers:

• Air clearance: 30cm (12 inches) around charger
• Ventilation: Natural ventilation sufficient if garage has air bricks, windows, or vents providing 4+ air changes per hour

For enclosed garages:

• Minimum vent area: 200cm² per wall (top and bottom for cross-flow)
• Air bricks: 2-4 air bricks (each ~150cm²) provide adequate ventilation
• Windows: Trickle vent windows acceptable

Ventilation Solutions

Solution 1: Natural Ventilation (Preferred)

Components:

• Air bricks low on one wall (cool air intake)
• Air bricks high on opposite wall (warm air exhaust)
• Creates natural convection current

Cost: £100-200 (4 air bricks installed)

Advantages: No ongoing cost, silent, reliable.

Solution 2: Passive Vents

Components:

• Roof vents (tile vents, ridge vents)
• Soffit vents
• Louvred panels

Cost: £150-300

Solution 3: Mechanical Ventilation (Necessary for Poorly-Ventilated Garages)

Components:

• Extractor fan (controlled by humidistat or timer)
• Intake vent
• Wiring to garage power

Cost: £200-400 installed

Advantages: Guaranteed air changes, controlled humidity.

When required:

• Integral garages with no external walls (under living space)
• Garages without windows or existing vents
• Garages in very humid areas (coastal, flood-prone)

Testing Ventilation Adequacy

Simple test:

1. Close garage
2. Light candle or incense stick
3. Observe smoke movement
4. If smoke disperses/exits within 2-3 minutes: Adequate ventilation
5. If smoke pools with no movement: Insufficient ventilation

WiFi Connectivity Solutions

Smart EV chargers rely on WiFi for:

• Scheduled charging
• App control (start/stop remotely)
• Energy monitoring
• Firmware updates
• Smart tariff integration (Octopus Intelligent Go, etc.)

Problem: Garages (especially detached) often have weak WiFi signal.

Solutions

Solution 1: WiFi Extender/Repeater

Device placed between router and garage, extends signal.

Cost: £30-80 Reliability: Good for garages within 15m of house

Best models for garages:

• TP-Link RE650 (£80) - Excellent range
• Netgear EX6150 (£50) - Good value

Installation:

1. Position extender halfway between router and garage
2. Configure to repeat main network
3. Charger connects to extended network

Solution 2: Powerline Adapter

Sends internet through electrical wiring (house to garage).

Cost: £50-100 for pair Reliability: Excellent (wired connection)

Best for: Detached garages with existing electrical supply from house.

How it works:

1. Adapter 1 plugs into house socket, connects to router via ethernet
2. Adapter 2 plugs into garage socket, provides WiFi or ethernet
3. Internet travels through electrical wiring

Top models:

• TP-Link TL-WPA8631P (£100) - WiFi + ethernet
• Netgear PLP2000 (£80) - Strong performance

Solution 3: Mesh WiFi System

Replace entire home WiFi with mesh system (extends seamlessly to garage).

Cost: £150-350 for whole-home system Reliability: Excellent

Best for: Homes upgrading WiFi anyway + garage coverage needed.

Top systems:

• Google Nest WiFi (£200) - User-friendly
• TP-Link Deco M5 (£150) - Good value
• Netgear Orbi (£300) - Premium performance

Solution 4: Ethernet Cable to Garage

Run ethernet cable from router to garage (underground or overhead).

Cost: £100-300 (DIY) or £200-500 (professional) Reliability: Perfect (wired connection)

Best for: Detached garages, permanent solution desired.

Installation:

• Bury Cat6 outdoor-rated ethernet cable alongside power cable trench
• Terminate in garage with WiFi access point or directly to charger (if ethernet-capable)

Charger Selection for Garages

Best Chargers for Internal Garage Mounting

Requirements:

• Compact design (space-efficient)
• Adequate ventilation/cooling
• Good in low-light conditions (LED indicators visible)

Recommended models:

1. EO Mini Pro 3 (£649) - Smallest UK charger, ideal for tight garage spaces
2. Wallbox Pulsar Plus (£599) - Compact, excellent app, good cooling
3. Ohme Home Pro (£749) - Smart features ideal for overnight garage charging
4. Pod Point Solo 3 (£699) - Clean design, reliable

Best Chargers for External Garage Mounting

Requirements:

• High weatherproof rating (IP65 preferred)
• Durable construction
• UV-resistant materials

Recommended models:

1. Zappi V2 (£899) - Excellent weatherproofing, robust
2. Andersen A2 (£1,450) - Premium build, IP65, marine-grade
3. Wallbox Pulsar Plus (£599) - IP54 rated, good value

Installation Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pre-Installation Survey (Day 1, 1-2 hours)

Installer visits to assess:

1. Garage suitability:

   • Internal dimensions
   • Parking clearances
   • Ventilation adequacy
   • Mounting wall strength

2. Electrical assessment:

   • Consumer unit capacity
   • Cable routing options
   • Earth bonding present
   • DNO notification required?

3. WiFi testing:

   • Signal strength in garage
   • Recommendations for improvement

4. Quote provision:

   • Equipment costs
   • Labour costs
   • Additional work needed (ventilation, WiFi, etc.)

Step 2: Preparation (Day of Installation, 1-2 hours)

Homeowner actions:

• Clear garage (remove vehicles, stored items from area)
• Provide access to consumer unit
• Ensure installer can park nearby (tools, equipment)

Step 3: Installation (Day of Installation, 3-6 hours)

Hour 1-2: Cable Installation

• Install 32A MCB in consumer unit
• Route armoured cable from consumer unit to garage
• (If detached garage: trench, lay cable, backfill)
• Test cable continuity and insulation resistance

Hour 3: Charger Mounting

• Mark charger mounting position on garage wall
• Drill and fix mounting plate
• Run cable into charger
• Secure charger to wall
• Earth bonding connection

Hour 4: Commissioning

• Power on charger
• Configure WiFi connection
• Install app on homeowner's phone
• Test charging with vehicle
• Demonstrate operation

Hour 5-6: Final Checks and Certification

• Electrical safety tests (earth continuity, RCD trip, etc.)
• Make good (patch plaster, paint conduit if surface-mounted)
• Clean up site
• Issue Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
• Provide user guide and receipts

Step 4: Post-Installation (Ongoing)

Week 1:

• Test scheduled charging
• Verify WiFi connectivity stable
• Familiarise with app features

Month 1:

• Check for any installation issues
• Contact installer if problems
• Read charger manual thoroughly

Costs: Complete Breakdown UK

Integrated/Attached Garage (Typical)

Equipment:

• Charger (7kW): £599-899
• Mounting hardware: Included
• Total equipment: £599-899

Labour:

• Standard installation (short cable run): £300-400
• Electrician labour (3-4 hours)
• Materials (cable, MCB, consumables): £50-100
• Total labour: £350-500

Optional extras:

• Ventilation (if needed): £100-300
• WiFi extender: £30-80

Total project cost: £949-1,379

Detached Garage (Underground Cable)

Equipment:

• Charger: £599-899
• Total equipment: £599-899

Labour:

• Extended cable installation: £500-800
  • Trenching (15-20m): £200-400
  • Cable (10mm² SWA): £100-200/20m
  • Backfilling, reinstatement: £100-150
• Standard fitting: £200-300
• Total labour: £700-1,100

Optional extras:

• WiFi solution: £50-150
• Garage sub-board: £200-400

Total project cost: £1,299-1,999

Detached Garage (Overhead Cable)

Labour savings: £100-200 (no trenching)

Total project cost: £1,199-1,799

Cost Comparison

Garage premium: £100-700 more than simple external wall mounting.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

Planning Permission

Most UK garage EV charger installations do NOT require planning permission if:

✅ Installation is on your property
✅ Charger is for domestic use
✅ No significant structural alterations
✅ Not in conservation area or listed building

Exceptions requiring permission:

❌ Listed buildings (Grade I, II*, II)
❌ Conservation areas (sometimes)
❌ Flats/apartments (freeholder permission)
❌ Shared garages (neighbour notification/permission)
❌ Structural changes (major wall alterations)

Check with: Local planning authority before proceeding if uncertain.

Building Regulations

Electrical work MUST comply with:

✅ Part P (Electrical Safety): Installation by qualified electrician
✅ BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations): All electrical work compliant
✅ Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC): Issued on completion

Ventilation work (if adding vents) may trigger:

✅ Building Control notification: For structural alterations to walls

Installer responsibilities: Competent installers handle all regulatory compliance.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: Charger Overheats in Summer

Symptoms: Charger reduces power or shuts off on hot days.

Cause: Inadequate ventilation + ambient heat.

Solutions:

• Improve ventilation (add air bricks, open windows while charging)
• Install extractor fan
• Charge in evening/night (cooler ambient temperature)
• Reduce charging power (from 32A to 16A) temporarily

Problem 2: WiFi Keeps Dropping

Symptoms: Charger loses internet connection, scheduled charging fails.

Cause: Weak signal, interference.

Solutions:

• Install WiFi extender or powerline adapter
• Reposition router closer to garage (if feasible)
• Check charger positioned away from metal objects (interference)
• Update charger firmware (may improve WiFi stability)

Problem 3: Condensation on Charger

Symptoms: Moisture visible inside charger casing or on connector.

Cause: Temperature differential (warm garage, cold night = condensation).

Solutions:

• Improve ventilation (reduce humidity)
• Install dehumidifier (if severe)
• Ensure charger rated for humid environments (IP54+)
• Don't charge immediately after opening garage on cold morning (allow temperature stabilisation)

Problem 4: Garage Door Hits Charging Cable

Symptoms: Automatic garage door impacts cable when closing.

Cause: Cable routing interferes with door travel.

Solutions:

• Reposition charger (further from door mechanism)
• Install cable management system (keeps cable away from door)
• Use longer cable (routes around door)
• Change door open/close routine (unplug before closing)

Problem 5: Insufficient Clearance Around Vehicle

Symptoms: Can't open car doors fully or access charger when parked.

Cause: Poor charger placement, tight garage dimensions.

Solutions:

• Remount charger (consider before permanent installation)
• Use longer cable (allows more flexible parking)
• Mark optimal parking position on floor (tape/paint line)
• Accept limited door opening (EV owners adapt quickly)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install an EV charger in a non-integrated garage under my bedroom?

Yes, with proper ventilation. Ensure adequate air bricks for heat dissipation and check Building Regulations for any sound insulation requirements (charger fan noise, though typically minimal).

Do I need planning permission to run a cable to my detached garage?

No, underground or overhead electrical cable installation typically doesn't require planning permission. Exception: conservation areas or listed buildings (check with local authority).

Will charging in an enclosed garage damage my EV battery?

No, if adequate ventilation is provided. EV batteries have thermal management systems. However, charging in very hot enclosed garages (>35°C) may reduce charging speed as battery cooling activates.

Can I use an extension lead instead of hardwired installation?

Absolutely NOT for 7kW chargers. Extension leads cannot safely handle 32A continuous load. Only hardwired professional installation is safe and legal for dedicated EV chargers. Portable "granny chargers" (3-pin plug, 3kW) can use short extension leads rated 13A minimum, but hardwired is always preferred.

How do I prevent my garage getting too hot while charging?

Ensure adequate ventilation (air bricks, open windows), avoid charging during peak heat (midday summer), and consider installing an extractor fan if garage temperature regularly exceeds 30°C.

What's the minimum garage size for EV charging?

Single garage: Minimum 3m (width) x 6m (length) provides adequate space for typical EV + charger access. Smaller garages possible but tight. Measure your vehicle + allow 60cm clearance around charger.

Can I install a charger in a rented garage?

Only with landlord written permission. Clarify who pays, who owns the charger on lease exit, and document agreement. Consider portable charger as alternative if permission refused.

Will garage insurance cover the EV charger?

Depends on policy. Check:

• Is charger covered as "fixture" or "content"?
• Is electrical equipment covered?
• Inform insurer of installation (may affect premium)
• Consider separate charger insurance if high-value unit

Typically, chargers under £1,000 are covered under standard contents insurance once installed.

Conclusion: Is Garage Installation Right for You?

Garage EV charger installation is ideal if:

✅ You regularly park in your garage (nightly)
✅ Garage has adequate space (vehicle + charger clearance)
✅ Ventilation is adequate or can be improved
✅ WiFi signal can be extended to garage
✅ You value security, aesthetics, and weather protection
✅ You're willing to invest £100-700 more than external mounting

Consider external wall mounting if:

❌ Garage is for storage (don't park there regularly)
❌ Garage is very small (insufficient clearance)
❌ Ventilation is very poor (expensive to remedy)
❌ Detached garage is very far from house (£1,500+ installation)
❌ Budget is tight (external mounting £100-400 cheaper)

For most UK homeowners with integrated or attached garages, garage installation provides the best combination of convenience, protection, and aesthetics, with the modest additional cost (£100-400) justified by the benefits.

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Next Steps:

1. ✅ Assess your garage (space, ventilation, WiFi)
2. ✅ Get 3+ quotes from OZEV-approved installers
3. ✅ Specify: garage installation, internal/external mounting preference
4. ✅ Discuss: ventilation improvements, WiFi solutions
5. ✅ Review: quotes, timelines, certifications included
6. ✅ Schedule: installation at convenient time

Related Reading:

• Complete Home EV Charger Installation Guide UK 2025
• Home EV Charger Power Requirements Explained UK 2025
• How to Choose a Qualified EV Charger Installer UK 2025