With electric vehicle sales soaring, more homeowners are looking to install dedicated home chargers. While you can charge an EV from a standard socket, a dedicated home charger is faster, safer, and more convenient. This guide helps you navigate the options and choose the right charger for your needs.
Why Install a Home Charger?
Compared to using a standard 3-pin plug, a dedicated charger offers:
- Faster charging: 7kW vs 2.3kW means roughly 3x faster charging
- Safety: Designed for continuous high-power use
- Convenience: Just plug in when you get home
- Smart features: Schedule charging for off-peak rates
- Weather protection: Built for outdoor installation
Charging Speeds Explained
3-Pin Plug (2.3kW)
Emergency/occasional use only. Adds about 8 miles of range per hour. Not recommended for regular charging.
7kW Home Charger
The standard for home installation. Adds about 25-30 miles per hour. Fully charges most EVs overnight. Requires a 32A circuit.
22kW Charger
Three-phase power required (not available in most homes). Adds about 75-90 miles per hour. Usually only for commercial use.
Key Features to Consider
Smart Connectivity
Smart chargers connect to Wi-Fi and offer app control. Benefits include scheduling charging for cheap overnight rates, monitoring energy usage, and receiving notifications. Now required by UK regulations for new installations.
Tethered vs Untethered
Tethered: Cable permanently attached. More convenient – just grab and plug. Choose the right connector for your car (Type 1 or Type 2).
Untethered: Socket only, use your own cable. More flexible if you have multiple vehicles with different connectors. Cable must be stored somewhere.
Cable Length
Consider where your charge port is located. Standard cables are 5-7.5m. Longer cables available but add cost.
Popular Home Chargers
Ohme Home Pro
Excellent smart features, works with energy tariffs to charge at cheapest times. Good app, competitive price.
Pod Point Solo 3
Reliable, good-looking unit. Solid app and smart features. Popular choice with good reputation.
Wallbox Pulsar Plus
Compact design, powerful features. Good for tight spaces. Excellent app.
Easee One
Scandinavian design, very compact. Can load balance multiple units. Premium option.
Hypervolt Home 3
British designed, good value. Integrated cable holder. Solid smart features.
Installation Requirements
Home EV charger installation requires:
- Adequate electrical supply (usually needs assessment)
- Dedicated circuit from consumer unit
- Earth rod installation (in most cases)
- Suitable mounting location
- Building regulations notification
Our EV charger installation service handles all aspects of installation, from survey to commissioning.
Costs
Typical costs for home EV charger installation:
- Charger unit: £400-£1,000 depending on brand and features
- Standard installation: £300-£500
- Complex installation: £500-£1,000+ (long cable runs, supply upgrades)
Total typical cost: £800-£1,500 fully installed.
Regulations
Since June 2022, all new home chargers must be "smart" chargers capable of being remotely controlled and defaulting to off-peak charging. Installation must comply with BS 7671 and requires notification to your DNO (Distribution Network Operator).
Conclusion
A home EV charger is an essential investment for any electric vehicle owner. Consider your charging needs, desired features, and budget when choosing. Professional installation ensures safety, compliance, and optimal performance.
Ready to Install an EV Charger?
Professional installation with all major charger brands.