What EV charger do I need? A comprehensive guide
Choosing an EV charger can be a difficult decision. What types of electric car chargers are available? What aspects should you take into account when choosing yours? We explain in today's article in which we will cover the following topics:
- Basic things to consider when choosing an EV charger.
- Different charging speeds and power outputs.
- Types of chargers available.
- Types of EV connectors available.
- Untethered or tethered EV charger: which one is best?
- Compatibility with a PV system.
- Where to install your EV charging point.
- Price considerations.
What EV charger do I need for my car? Basic things to consider
When choosing your home EV charger, you should consider factors such as:
- The model and specifications of your electric car.
- Your driving habits.
These variables will help you choose the best charger in terms of charging speed, power output, or the required connector type. Why is this important? For example, the charging speed also depends on your vehicle's onboard charger capabilities, so knowing your EV's specifications will help you choose the best option for your case.
Similarly, with connectors, not all EV models will be compatible with the Type 1 connector. Therefore, before installing your EV charge point, you should check the individual requirements of your vehicle.
Now that you know where to start, let's delve into factors you should consider before buying an EV charger
Charging speed and power output
One of the first things to consider when looking for an EV home charger is the charging speed.
Charging speed is typically measured in kilowatts (kW), with higher kW ratings indicating faster charging times.
But what options are available? Let's take a look at them:
| Type by charging speed | Main features |
|---|---|
| 3.6kW charger | An excellent option for plug-in hybrid cars. The slowest range of speed. |
| 7kW charger | The most popular option for electric car charging. Perfect for overnight charging. |
| 22kW charger | Requires a three-phase electricity supply to charge your electric car. The fastest charger for home charging. |
Logically, the price depends on the charging speed and can vary between £350 and £1,500.
EV charger type
There are two main types of chargers: EV Fast Chargers and EV Rapid Chargers.
Let’s see what the main differences are:
| EV Fast Chargers | EV Rapid Chargers |
|---|---|
| Power: between 7 and 22kW | Power: between 50 and 350 kW |
| Charging time: 1-6 hours | Charging time: 30 minutes |
| Current: AC (alternative current) | Current: DC (direct current) |
| EV charging cables: tethered or untethered | EV charging cables: tethered |
| 2 types of connectors: Type 1, Type 2 | 4 types of connectors: Type 2 Mennekes, Tesla Type 2, CCS (Combined Charging System), CHAdeMO |
| Normally used: at home | Normally used: at petrol stations |
As you have already noticed, for domestic use, the best option is EV Fast Chargers. These can be combined with different types of connectors and they operate with alternative current (AC).
Connector type
There are different types of connectors that can be used with different types of EV chargers. Let's delve into the details:
EV connectors working with AC
The Type 1 connector
- Power ratings range from 3kW to 7kW.
- Up to 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
- A practical solution, especially for older models of electric cars.
- Featuring five pins and a single-phase configuration, it ensures a secure connection without the need for a locking mechanism.
The Type 2 connector
- Power ratings range from 7kW to 22kW.
- Up to 75 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Its seven pins and standardised design make it the go-to connector across Europe, ensuring seamless compatibility with a multitude of EVs.
- It also guarantees a secure connection during charging sessions either for home charging or at public charging stations.
The 3 Pin connector
- The most basic form of electric vehicle charging.
- Allows you to charge your vehicle using standard household sockets.
- Very slow charging speed, typically delivering around 3kW of power.
- With an estimated range of approximately 8 miles per hour of charging, the 3 Pin connector is best suited for occasional or emergency charging situations rather than long-term use, particularly for vehicles with larger battery capacities.
Our tip: The most popular connectors used for home charging are the Type 2 and Type 1. The Type 2 is particularly popular with newer cars.
EV connectors working with DC
The Combined Charging System CCS
- Charging ranges from 50kW to 350kW.
- Up to 525 miles of range in just half an hour.
- Its design combines two Type 2 pins.
- As a popular DC connector choice, the CCS is widely embraced by EV manufacturers and charging infrastructure providers alike.
CHAdeMO
- Charging capabilities ranging from 50kW to 100kW.
- Up to 150 miles of range in just half an hour.
Despite these splendid features, DC chargers and connectors cannot be used in residential buildings where only AC power is available.
Untethered or tethered EV charger?
What's the difference between these two types of chargers?
Tethered chargers come with a fixed cable permanently attached to the charging unit, making it convenient as there's no need to handle your own car charging cable.
On the other hand, untethered EV chargers require you to use your own charging cable, providing flexibility as you can use different cables for different EVs or replace them if needed.
Now, which one to choose?
If you prefer simplicity and ease of use, tethered chargers offer a hassle-free solution, particularly if you have a dedicated parking space for your EV. On the contrary, untethered chargers might be preferred by those who value flexibility and versatility, especially if they own multiple EVs or anticipate using public charging stations frequently.
Ultimately, both types of chargers can effectively power up your EV at home, so the decision boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
Compatibility with solar panels
If you plan to harness the power of solar energy to charge your electric vehicle, it's important for your EV charger of choice to be compatible with solar panels. Otherwise, you will uniquely depend on the electricity from the grid to use your home charging point which might be more expensive.
Below you will find a list of EV chargers compatible with solar panels:
- Wallbox Pulsar Plus
- Zappi
- Hypervault Home
- Indra Smart Pro
- Rolec Wallpod
On the other hand, if you are planning to invest in a PV system, we recommend our article How many solar panels do I need to charge an EV?
If you want to receive a free quote for a PV system, please enter your postcode:
Where to install my charging point?
Determine whether your property has adequate electrical infrastructure to support the charger's power output and whether you need additional wiring or upgrades. Consulting with a qualified electrician can help assess the feasibility of installation and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
It is also important to think about the convenience and the ease of installation. After all, your EV charger will be a part of your house, so whenever possible it should be located in a place that is easily accessible and where it looks natural.
Should I choose the cheapest EV charger available?
While cost is undoubtedly a significant factor in the decision-making process, we recommend to strike a balance between affordability and quality. Opting for the cheapest charger available may compromise reliability and performance in the long run. Instead, consider the overall value proposition, taking into account factors such as charging speed, smart features, and durability, to make an informed investment decision.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect EV charger for your home requires careful consideration of your charging needs, technical specifications, installation requirements, and budgetary constraints. By understanding these factors and following our comprehensive guide, you can confidently navigate the myriad of options available in the market and choose a charger that aligns with your lifestyle and sustainability goals. With the right EV charger in place, you can enjoy hassle-free charging experiences and contribute to a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.