How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Car and Home

With electric vehicles becoming increasingly popular across the UK, many new owners are faced with the challenge of selecting a home charging solution. While every EV comes with the ability to charge from a standard plug socket, this is neither practical nor safe for long-term use. A dedicated EV charger provides faster charging times, improved safety, and greater convenience. But with so many different chargers on the market, choosing the right one for your car and home can feel overwhelming. Understanding power options, features, and installation requirements will make the decision much clearer.

Why a dedicated EV charger is essential

Although it is possible to charge an electric vehicle using a standard three-pin plug, this is extremely slow and places strain on household wiring. A dedicated EV charger is specifically designed to handle the higher loads required for charging safely and efficiently. It also provides peace of mind with built-in safety features such as Residual Current Devices (RCDs) and, in many cases, surge protection. For homeowners planning to use an EV daily, a dedicated charger is an essential investment.

Power output and charging speed

One of the first decisions when choosing a charger is selecting the right power output. In the UK, most domestic chargers are rated at either 3.6kW or 7kW. A 3.6kW charger typically adds around 15 miles of range per hour, while a 7kW charger provides closer to 30 miles. For most households, a 7kW charger strikes the best balance between speed and cost, allowing overnight charging even for larger battery vehicles. Faster chargers such as 11kW or 22kW units are only possible with three-phase electricity supplies, which most homes do not have. Before deciding, it is important to check both the home’s supply and the vehicle’s maximum charging rate, as some cars cannot take advantage of higher outputs.

Tethered versus untethered chargers

Another important choice is whether to install a tethered or untethered charger. A tethered charger comes with a fixed cable permanently attached to the unit, which makes charging quick and convenient as the cable is always ready. However, the cable length is fixed and may not suit all parking arrangements. An untethered charger has no built-in cable, allowing drivers to use their vehicle’s own cable. This provides flexibility and a cleaner look when the charger is not in use, but requires plugging in and storing the cable each time. The right option often comes down to personal preference and convenience.

Smart features and connectivity

Modern EV chargers often include smart features that provide greater control and efficiency. Smart chargers can be connected to Wi-Fi or mobile networks and controlled through an app, allowing drivers to schedule charging during off-peak hours, monitor energy usage, or even link charging to solar panels. Some also include load balancing, which adjusts charging rates automatically to prevent overloading the household electrical system when other appliances are in use. While smart chargers are more expensive than basic units, they often lead to long-term savings and provide future-proof functionality.

Compatibility with your vehicle

Not all EV chargers are suitable for all vehicles. In the UK, most modern EVs use a Type 2 connector, but some older models still rely on Type 1. Ensuring that the charger has the correct connector is essential. It is also worth considering whether the charger supports both fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, as households with multiple vehicles may need flexibility. Checking your vehicle’s charging specifications will help you choose a charger that makes the most of its capabilities.

Installation considerations

The practicality of installation is another factor to keep in mind. Chargers are usually mounted on an external wall close to where the car is parked, such as a driveway or garage. The distance from the consumer unit can affect cost, as longer cabling requires more work. Older properties may need upgrades to the consumer unit or main fuse to safely support an EV charger. A qualified installer will assess these requirements during a site survey and recommend the most suitable setup for your home.

Grants and funding

Although the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) has ended for most homeowners, grants are still available for tenants, flat owners, and landlords. These can reduce installation costs by up to £350. Businesses may also qualify for support through the Workplace Charging Scheme. While not every household will be eligible, it is worth checking before committing to a charger, as the financial support can help offset the initial expense.

Cost and value

Basic EV chargers start at around £400, with installation bringing the total to between £800 and £1,200 for a standard setup. Premium smart chargers with advanced features may cost £1,000 to £1,500 or more. While this is a significant investment, the convenience and savings of home charging compared to public charging make it worthwhile. Choosing the right charger the first time also avoids the need for costly upgrades later.

Future-proofing your choice

Electric vehicle technology is evolving quickly, and your charging needs may change over time. Investing in a smart charger, or at least a 7kW unit, ensures that your home remains suitable for future vehicles. If you are considering solar panels, look for chargers with solar integration capabilities. Planning ahead now will save time and expense later, and keep your home ready for the next generation of electric cars.

Working with a qualified installer

Finally, the importance of professional installation cannot be overstated. EV chargers must be installed by a qualified electrician, ideally one registered under the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) scheme. Approved installers not only ensure compliance with safety regulations but can also help you access grants where available. Choosing a trusted professional provides peace of mind that the system is installed safely and will perform reliably.

Conclusion

Choosing the right EV charger for your car and home involves more than picking the first unit you see online. Power output, tethered or untethered design, smart features, compatibility, and installation requirements all play a part in making the best decision. For most households, a 7kW smart charger provides the ideal mix of speed, safety, and future-proofing. By planning carefully and working with an experienced installer, you can ensure that your charger meets your needs today while remaining suitable for the electric vehicles of tomorrow.