How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Home

Electric cars are becoming increasingly common on UK roads, with over 1.9 million now registered as of the latest reports. As more drivers switch to electric vehicles, home EV charging is no longer an occasional convenience; it is a part of our daily lives. So, it should be as simple as just filling up petrol at a petrol station. That’s why installing the best EV charger at home is becoming the most practical way to stay powered for every trip.

If you’re planning to install a home electric car charger, it is important to understand your options. In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to choose the best home EV charger in the UK, including types, features, costs, and key considerations.

Why Should I Install a Home EV Charger?

This might be the first question you may face when you’re in the planning stage. Even if you have charging options near your street, a home electric car charger offers several advantages over relying on public charging stations.

• Convenience – No waiting at a public charging station is required; you can charge your EV overnight at home.
• Cost-effective – Lower electricity rates compared to public chargers.
• Fast Charging – Your EV specific dedicated chargers outperform standard wall sockets.
• Stress Free – If you own more than one EV at home, a home charger will give you a stress-free charging experience whenever you need it.
• Long-term solution – Installing an electric car charger for home is a smart investment if you’re planning to continue EV driving for a long period.

Understand the Types of EV Chargers

Before choosing a home electric car charger, it is essential to understand the different types available on the market.

Level 1 Charger - A Level 1 EV charger uses a standard household socket such as 3-pin plug. While it’s the most affordable option, it’s also the slowest charger that may take 24+ hours to fully charge an EV. As it doesn’t need any additional installation, it is ideal for plug-in hybrids or occasional use.

Level 2 Charger - A 7kW wallbox is the most popular Level 2 EV charger for the home. It requires professional installation but offers much faster charging, making it perfect for daily EV users. This can quickly charge your EV in 6-10 hours.

DC Fast Charger - Typically found in commercial settings, DC fast chargers are not commonly installed in homes due to high costs and power requirements.

If you're looking for the best electric car home charger, a 7kW wallbox is generally the ideal choice for daily use.

Choose Between Tethered vs Untethered Chargers

Before purchasing an EV charger, you need a clear idea about what type of charger you want and what are the requirements you have to fulfil. Once you got the answer for these questions, consider whether you need a tethered EV charger or untethered EV charger.

A tethered EV Charging Cable comes with a fixed cable which must be installed by a professional electrician. It is convenient and easy to use but is not portable when you are travelling. On the other hand, an untethered EV charger requires a power source via the 3 Pin plug or CEE plug, offering more flexibility.

Key Features to Look for in the Best Home EV Charger UK

Check your Home’s Electrical Capacity

One of the most important steps in choosing a home EV charging station is assessing your electrical system. Most 7kW wallbox chargers require a dedicated circuit and you may require a professional electrician to determine your panel capacity, whether upgrades are needed, and handle the installation.

Consider Charging Speed

Choosing the right EV charging speed at home depends on your daily driving routine and vehicle battery size. Charging speed is measured in kilowatts (kW). That is, a higher kW rating means faster charging.

3.6 kW – Slow charging

7 kW – Standard home charging (Most common choice)

22 kW – Fast charging (requires three-phase supply and is not compatible with all car models)

Check Compatibility with Your EV

Not all chargers are compatible with every vehicle. Ensure your chosen electric vehicle home charger supports your EV’s connector type (Type 1 or Type 2-UK Standard Type).

Installation and Safety Considerations

Always use a certified installer for your Tether EV Charging Cables when installating in your home. In the UK, chargers must comply with safety regulations to prevent fire hazards and ensure a reliable operation so our chargers are all UKCA and CE certified.

While installing an EV charger for home, consider these factors:

• Outdoor or indoor installation
• Weatherproof rating (IP rating)
• Cable length
• Compatibility
• Charger power
• Charging speed
• Tethered or untethered

Installation Cost

The cost of installing a home EV charger may vary depending on the charger type and electrical upgrades needed. Here in the UK, you may be eligible for grants like the EV chargepoint grant, which can effectively reduce installation costs. Always check the latest eligibility criteria before purchasing.

Some FAQ’s on Installation Costs:

How much is a home EV charger?

Typically, a unit costs between £500 and £1,000, depending on brand and features.

How much to install EV charger at home?

Installation alone usually costs £300 to £800, depending on your electrical setup, distance from fuse box, and complexity of installation.

How much to install a home EV charger with extras?

If upgrades are needed (e.g., new consumer unit, cabling), costs may exceed £1,500.

Top Tips for Choosing the Best EV Home Charger UK

• Choose a smart charger for better energy management
• Ensure your installer is certified (OZEV-approved)
• Compare warranties and customer support
• Future-proof your setup for higher-capacity EVs

Top Brands to Consider

We supply the cables to fit your new or existing Wallbox, there are a number of brands available, some popular EV charger brands in the UK include:

• Zappi
• Hypervolt
• Pod Point
• Wallbox
• Ohme
• Rolec

Selecting the right EV charger for your home exclusively depends on your driving habits, vehicle type, electrical setup, and budget. A high quality home EV charger not only makes your daily charging more convenient and easier, but also improves your overall EV experience. For most EVs in the UK, a smart Level 2 charger (up to 7kW wallbox) offers quick charging at an affordable price. By understanding your requirements and installation costs, you can make a confident, futuristic decision that suits you.

If you’re planning to install a home EV charger, now is a great time to invest in a smarter and more sustainable way to power your journeys.