Home EV chargers come in different types, offering various speeds and features depending on your needs. The most common are slow chargers (around 3kW), fast chargers (7kW–22kW), and smart chargers, which allow you to schedule charging and track usage through apps. For most UK households, a 7kW fast charger is the best balance of cost and performance, providing a full overnight charge for most vehicles. Smart chargers are becoming increasingly popular because they help reduce running costs and integrate with renewable energy.

Slow chargers: cheapest, but very slow charging

Fast chargers (7kW–22kW): suitable for most homes

Smart chargers: app-controlled and energy efficient

Options for tethered (fixed cable) or untethered units

Choice depends on driving habits and property setup

Choosing the right EV charger depends on your vehicle’s battery size, your home’s electrical capacity, and how often you drive. A 7kW charger is the standard for most homes and provides a full charge overnight. If you drive longer distances daily, or your property has three-phase electricity, you may consider a faster 22kW charger. Smart chargers are ideal for those wanting to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs or integrate solar power. A professional installer will assess your property and recommend the most suitable option.

Match charger power to your vehicle’s battery size

Standard 7kW units suit most UK households

Faster 22kW units require three-phase supply

Smart chargers give cost savings and flexibility

Professional advice ensures the best long-term choice

The charging time depends on your vehicle’s battery capacity and the type of charger installed. A typical 7kW home charger will charge most electric cars in 6 to 8 hours, making it ideal for overnight use. Larger batteries or higher daily mileage may require a faster 22kW charger, though this is only possible with a three-phase power supply. Slow chargers, such as three-pin plugs, can take over 12 hours and are not recommended for regular use. With the right home charger, you’ll always start the day with a full battery.

7kW chargers: 6–8 hours for most EVs

22kW chargers: 3–4 hours (requires three-phase)

Slow chargers: 12+ hours via standard plug

Charging time varies by vehicle battery size

Overnight charging is most convenient for drivers

Not all homes are immediately ready for an EV charger, particularly older properties with outdated consumer units or limited electrical capacity. A qualified installer will assess your property to ensure it can safely support the additional load. In many cases, only minor upgrades are required, but if your system is outdated, it may need significant improvements to meet current safety standards. Upgrading ensures your charger operates safely, prevents power issues, and protects both your home and vehicle.

Older homes may need consumer unit upgrades

Electrical assessments are always carried out first

Safety checks prevent overload and risks

Upgrades future-proof your installation

Professional installers ensure compliance with UK regulations

Yes, both tethered and untethered units can be installed depending on your preference. A tethered charger comes with a fixed charging cable permanently attached, making it quick and easy to plug in your vehicle. Untethered chargers have a socket only, allowing you to use different cables depending on your vehicle type. Each option has its advantages: tethered units offer convenience, while untethered models provide flexibility, especially if you change your car in the future. Your installer will help you decide which option best suits your needs.

Tethered chargers: cable permanently attached

Untethered chargers: socket-only for flexibility

Tethered units are quick and convenient

Untethered units suit multiple vehicle types

Choice depends on convenience versus flexibility

A fast charger refers to the speed of charging, typically 7kW or higher, allowing most EVs to be fully charged in 6 to 8 hours. A smart charger, on the other hand, includes intelligent features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and the ability to schedule charging during off-peak hours. While a fast charger gives you speed, a smart charger combines speed with efficiency, cost savings, and integration with renewable energy sources like solar panels. Choosing a smart fast charger offers the best of both worlds.

Fast charger: provides quicker charging times

Smart charger: offers scheduling and monitoring features

Smart chargers help reduce energy costs

Integration with solar panels is possible

Best option combines fast charging with smart control

Most standard home EV charger installations can be completed within 2 to 4 hours, provided your property’s electrical system is suitable. If additional work is needed, such as upgrading the consumer unit or laying extra cabling, installation may take longer. The process includes an initial assessment, installation of the unit, and full safety testing. Professional installers will also provide guidance on how to use your charger and ensure it meets UK regulations.

Standard installation: 2–4 hours

Additional work may extend the timeline

Includes safety checks and testing

Professional handover ensures confidence

Always carried out to UK safety standards

Yes, many modern home EV chargers can be integrated with solar panels and battery storage systems. This allows you to use renewable energy to charge your car, reducing reliance on the grid and lowering running costs. Smart chargers can be set to prioritise solar energy, making use of excess power generated during the day. Integration with battery storage means you can store solar energy and charge your car at night, maximising efficiency.

Integration with solar panels reduces costs

Smart chargers prioritise renewable energy use

Excess solar energy stored for later charging

Reduced reliance on the electricity grid

More sustainable and eco-friendly charging solution

The cost of installing a home EV charger varies depending on the type of charger, your home’s electrical system, and any additional work required. On average, a standard installation ranges from €800 to €1,200. Smart chargers or installations requiring consumer unit upgrades may cost more. While the upfront cost can be significant, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make it worthwhile. Professional installation also ensures safety, efficiency, and compliance with UK standards.

Average installation cost: €800–€1,200

Smart chargers may be higher in price

Upgrades to electrical systems add costs

Long-term savings offset initial expense

Professional installation ensures safety and compliance

Yes, EV chargers are designed to be low-maintenance, but regular checks and servicing are recommended to ensure long-term performance. Maintenance may include inspecting wiring, updating software, and testing safety functions. Professional servicing helps identify issues before they become costly problems and extends the lifespan of your charger. Having ongoing support means you can always rely on your charger to work efficiently and safely.

Regular inspections ensure reliability

Software updates improve performance

Safety checks prevent potential risks

Early detection of faults reduces costs

Ongoing support gives peace of mind

Yes, charging your EV overnight is completely safe when using a professionally installed home charger. These units are designed with built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off, surge protection, and temperature monitoring. Overnight charging also allows you to take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs, reducing your running costs. Using a standard three-pin plug for regular charging is not recommended, as it may overheat and is less efficient.

Home chargers designed for safe overnight use

Built-in surge and temperature protection

Automatic shut-off prevents overcharging

Off-peak tariffs lower electricity bills

Three-pin plugs not suitable for daily charging

Yes, EV chargers can be installed in flats, apartments, and shared parking areas, but additional planning is required. This may involve gaining permission from landlords, managing shared electrical systems, and ensuring chargers are accessible to multiple users. Smart charging points with load balancing features are often recommended in these situations. A professional installer can work with property managers to ensure a safe and practical solution.

Requires landlord or property manager approval

Shared electrical systems need professional planning

Smart chargers improve efficiency in shared areas

Load balancing prevents power overloads

Tailored solutions for communal spaces

Yes, all chargers come with manufacturer warranties, typically covering parts and performance for several years. Installation work is also guaranteed to provide added peace of mind. Warranties protect against defects and ensure your investment is secure. In addition, some smart chargers include extended warranties when installed by approved professionals. Always check the terms of cover at the time of installation.

Manufacturer warranties included with chargers

Installation guarantees for workmanship

Extended warranties often available

Covers defects and performance issues

Added peace of mind for your investment

Yes, commercial EV charger installations are available for businesses, workplaces, and public spaces. These chargers are designed to handle multiple vehicles and higher usage compared with home units. Commercial systems often include load balancing, payment options, and smart management features. Installing chargers at your business can attract customers, support staff, and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability.

Suitable for businesses, offices, and retail spaces

Designed for multiple users and frequent use

Features include load balancing and payment systems

Enhances business reputation and sustainability

Supports employees, customers, and visitors

Yes, EV chargers can be installed in carports, providing a convenient and weather-protected charging solution. Carports are ideal for properties without a garage, as they offer shelter for both the vehicle and the charging unit. Weatherproof chargers ensure safety and reliability in outdoor conditions. Professional installation ensures cables are secure and the unit is positioned for easy access.

Carport chargers provide sheltered charging

Weatherproof units withstand outdoor conditions

Suitable for homes without garages

Professional installation ensures safety

Convenient and accessible placement

Yes, solar panel carports combine vehicle protection with renewable energy generation. These structures feature solar panels on the roof, generating electricity that can be used to power your EV charger or your home. Solar carports reduce reliance on the grid, cut energy costs, and lower your carbon footprint. They are particularly popular with eco-conscious homeowners and businesses looking to maximise sustainability.

Combines carport shelter with solar panels

Generates electricity for EV charging

Reduces reliance on grid power

Cuts household energy costs significantly

Supports sustainable, eco-friendly living

Yes, if you already have a solar panel system, it can be integrated with your EV charger. This allows you to use clean, renewable energy to charge your vehicle directly, reducing reliance on grid electricity. Smart chargers can be programmed to prioritise solar power whenever available. This setup not only lowers your energy bills but also reduces your environmental impact, making your EV ownership even more sustainable.

Integration with solar panels reduces costs

Smart chargers prioritise solar energy

Clean, renewable power for EV charging

Reduces reliance on the grid

More sustainable approach to EV ownership

On its own, a solar panel system cannot charge your car at night, as panels only generate power during daylight hours. However, by combining solar panels with a home battery storage system, you can store excess energy generated during the day and use it to charge your EV overnight. This approach maximises efficiency, reduces costs, and makes the most of your renewable energy investment.

Solar panels generate power only in daylight

Battery storage allows night-time charging

Maximises efficiency of solar energy use

Reduces reliance on the national grid

Provides sustainable, low-cost EV charging

Installation and servicing are available across a wide regional area, covering both urban and rural locations. This often includes major towns and cities as well as surrounding areas. Whether you are in a residential property, a business, or a shared development, services can be tailored to your needs. Always check with your installer to confirm whether your postcode is within the coverage area.

Coverage includes towns, cities, and rural areas

Residential and commercial installations supported

Flexible service tailored to property type

Servicing and maintenance across wide regions

Always confirm your postcode for availability