How to prepare your garage for an electric car

How to prepare your garage for an electric car

Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular as the option continues to be more widely accessible. Not only are they great for the planet, offering a more environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional cars, they also offer significant savings on fuel.

However, if you are considering making the switch to an electric vehicle, it’s important to first consider how you’re going to accommodate it. This includes preparing your garage in advance and in this blog post, we share our advice on how to do this most effectively, including:

• Installing an electric charging point and making sure it’s the right one for you. 
• Seeking out the advice of a reputable electrician. 
• Ensuring your garage is protected against the weather. 
• Taking measures to double-down on your garage security.

Install an electric charging point in your Garage

If you have an electric vehicle, you’re naturally going to need to install an electric charging point for it. One of the best - and most popular - places to put charging equipment is in a garage. The apparatus typically includes a wall-mounted box with a plug and cord that connect to the car, so you’ll need to clear a safe space for this. 

This type of component is what is known as an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) - which one you get depends on a number of factors including car model, budget and intended mileage. 

We’d recommend seeking the help of a qualified electrician who will be able to advise you on the best course of action. After all, we’re experts in garages - not electrics! 

Ensure your garage is well weatherproofed

You don’t need us to tell you that water and electricity don’t mix. With that in mind, when you’re housing an electric car and its charging point in your garage, weatherproofing the space is more crucial than ever.

We recommend installing a sturdy threshold seal made from a high-quality, durable vinyl to provide a watertight seal between the garage door and floor. If you already have a threshold seal installed, now is the perfect time to consider replacing it if it’s looking a bit well-worn. 

Double-down on your garage security measures

As well as weatherproofing the space sufficiently, it’s also important to ensure that your garage is super secure. It goes without saying that an electric car is a significant financial investment that you’ll want to protect, but the charging equipment doesn’t come cheap either. 

Bolstering your garage security will reduce the risk of theft and related damage. One of the ways you can do this is by repairing any wear, tear or damage to your garage door and windows. 

Installing a garage door threshold seal will also help fend against rodents and other critters that might be inclined to nibble through your charging cable or damage your vehicle.  

Taking all of these steps will ensure that you’re well-prepared to give your electric car a safe, secure and suitably-equipped new home. All that’s left to do after that is take your new wheels for a spin!