Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Choosing EV Charging Station Installers

Thinking of installing an EV charging station at home or your business? That's a smart move. As electric vehicles (EVs) grow in popularity, having your charging setup is convenient, future-proof, and even boosts property value. But here’s the thing — choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right EV.

Unfortunately, a lot of people make avoidable mistakes when picking EV charging station installers. If you're searching for EV charging station installers in Cicero, IL, you’ll want to avoid these top five common mistakes so you don’t end up with regrets (or worse, expensive fixes).

1. Going with the Cheapest Option Without Checking Credentials

We get it. Everyone wants to save money. But choosing the cheapest installer just because they’re cheap? That’s a risky move.

Installing an EV charger isn’t just about mounting it on a wall and plugging it in. It involves electrical work, load calculations, possibly upgrading your electric panel, and ensuring everything meets code. Hiring someone without proper credentials or experience can lead to shoddy workmanship, electrical hazards, or even a voided warranty on your EV charger.

Tip: Always check if the installer is licensed, bonded, and insured. And if you're looking locally, go with proven EV charging station installers in Cicero, IL, who have verifiable reviews and experience.

2. Not Asking About Permit Requirements

Here's a boring but important fact: most cities (including Cicero) require a permit for installing Level 2 home or commercial EV chargers. Some folks assume the installer will handle all that paperwork, but not all of them do.

Skipping the permit process can come back to haunt you. You might pass inspection now, but problems can arise later if you sell your home or if there's a fire and your insurance company decides to dig into your upgrades.

Tip: Ask your installer upfront: “Do you pull the permit, or do I need to do that?” Reliable EV charging station installers in Cicero, IL, will take care of permitting as part of their service.

3. Not Checking If Your Electrical System Can Handle It

Not every home or commercial property is ready for an EV charger, especially Level 2 chargers that need a 240V circuit. One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming their electrical panel can handle the extra load.

An overloaded panel isn’t just inconvenient — it can be downright dangerous. A professional installer should evaluate your current electrical setup before giving a quote. If they don’t do this, that’s a red flag.

Tip: A thorough installer will inspect your panel, explain if you need an upgrade, and give you transparent pricing before starting any work.

4. Ignoring Warranty and Support Details

A lot of people focus so much on the installation price that they forget to ask about warranty coverage and post-installation support. What happens if your EV charger stops working in three months? Who do you call?

Some installers offer a warranty on their labor, and the manufacturer might provide a separate warranty on the charging unit. But not all warranties are created equal, and not all installers stick around to support you after the job is done.

Tip: Ask the installer, “What warranty do you offer on your work?” and “If something goes wrong, do you handle service calls?” A dependable EV charging station installer in Cicero, IL, won’t disappear once the job is done.

5. Choosing Someone Who Isn’t Familiar with Local Codes

Every municipality has its own building and electrical codes. What’s okay in another city might not pass inspection in Cicero. If your installer isn’t familiar with local requirements, you could end up with delays, rework, or worse, failed inspections.

Also, utility companies in Illinois sometimes offer rebates or incentives for EV charger installations, but only if the work is done to spec and documented correctly.

Tip: Work with EV charging station installers in Cicero, IL, who know the area, the rules, and the local utility rebate programs. Their local expertise can save you time and money.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an EV charging station installer is more than just a one-time transaction — it's a long-term investment in your property and your EV experience. Whether you're a homeowner looking to charge overnight or a business aiming to attract EV drivers, hiring the right pro makes all the difference.

Avoid these five mistakes, ask the right questions, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth, safe, and efficient installation.

And if you're in the area, don't gamble on unknowns — stick with trusted EV charging station installers in Cicero, IL, who have a solid track record and understand the needs of residents.