Choosing the right EV charger is important. But choosing the right place to put it is just as crucial. The position of your charger affects installation cost, charging speed, safety, convenience, and even long-term flexibility for solar or battery upgrades.
Here’s your simple, homeowner-friendly guide to picking the perfect spot.
The best location for your EV charger is a safe, sheltered, accessible spot close to your parking area and close to your main fuse board, ideally on an external wall.
This keeps installation costs low, charging easy, and future upgrades (like solar charging or load balancing) straightforward.
1. Pick the Side of the House Closest to Your Fuse Board
This is the biggest factor influencing installation cost.
- The shorter the cable run, the cheaper the installation.
- Being close to the fuse board ensures the charger runs efficiently and safely.
- It also makes it easier to install dynamic load balancing, essential for modern homes with heat pumps, solar, and high electrical demand.
Tip: If your fuse board is at the front of the house but you park at the rear, consider running a duct while doing other jobs, it can save hundreds later.
2. Aim for an External Wall (When Possible)
Installing chargers indoors is possible, but external walls are typically:
- Easier to cable from
- Better for heat dissipation
- Cleaner for emergency isolation switches
- Safer for cable management
An external wall facing your driveway is almost always the optimal choice.
3. Keep the Charger Close to Where You Park
Your charger cable should reach the charge port comfortably without stretching or trailing dangerously.
Consider:
- Do you reverse into your space?
- Is the charge port on the left, right or front?
- Do multiple vehicles use the charger?
A good rule of thumb: Install the charger within 1–2 metres of your usual parking position.
4. Avoid Tight Corners and Obstructions
Think long-term:
- Will you be opening your boot or doors near the charger?
- Could bins, garden tools or gates knock it?
- Is it exposed to children’s play areas?
A clear, unobstructed wall section improves safety and avoids constant wear-and-tear on cables.
5. Shelter Matters Even for Weatherproof Chargers
Yes, EV chargers are built to withstand Irish rain, but placing them under shelter has benefits:
- Longer unit lifespan
- Better cable condition over time
- Less wind-driven rain and debris
- More comfortable use on wet days
Great sheltered spots include:
- House overhangs
- Carports
- Inside an open garage
- Under porch roofs
6. Consider Future Solar + Battery Upgrades
If you're planning solar panels or already have them, choose a location that works with future energy-smart features:
- Solar-divert compatible chargers work best when installed near the inverter or consumer unit.
- Battery-powered solar homes benefit from shorter cable paths to reduce loss and make upgrades easier.
A quick chat with your installer can ensure you’re future-proofed from day one.
7. Don’t Block Pathways or Access Routes
Remember: EV charging cables can be a trip hazard.
Avoid:
- Footpaths
- Doorways
- Narrow passages
- High-traffic areas
A clean installation should improve convenience, not add obstacles.
8. Garage Installations: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Maximum weather protection
- Secure
- Ideal for smart charging setups
- Keeps cables tidy
Cons:
- Not ideal if you park outside
- May require cutting through walls
- Ventilation considerations for some chargers
Garages are great, but only if you actually use them for parking!
9. Think About Aesthetics
Modern EV chargers look great, but placement still matters.
- Avoid prominent front-facing walls if you prefer a discreet setup.
- Consider the charger’s colour and design (brands like Ohme, Wallbox and Hypervolt blend well with modern homes).
- Keep visible cabling to a minimum, your installer can trunk or conceal wires neatly.
A tidy installation adds value and avoids “cable spaghetti”.
10. Make Room for the Isolation Switch
Irish regulations require an external isolator switch for safe maintenance.
Choose a spot where:
- The switch is easy to reach
- It won’t be exposed to accidental knocks
- It doesn’t clutter the visual layout
A good installer (like WattCharger!) will position this cleanly beside the unit.
WattCharger’s Take
We’ve installed thousands of chargers across Dublin and Cork and in most cases, the optimal location is:
“On an exterior wall near the fuse board, within 2 metres of your parking position, sheltered where possible, and away from high-traffic areas.”
This setup keeps costs down, ensures faster installs, and gives you the best long-term performance.
Blog Author: Rowan Egan