Your Ultimate Guide to EV Chargers

The charging time for an EV depends on the battery size and the type of charger used. A standard 7kW home charger will fully charge most EVs in 6 to 8 hours, perfect for overnight charging. Rapid chargers, often found at service stations, can charge a vehicle up to 80% in as little as 30-40 minutes, which is ideal for long trips. Charging at a regular 3-pin plug can take up to 30 hours, which is not recommended for frequent use.

The installation cost of a home EV charger typically ranges between £500 and £1,200, depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of charger chosen. The UK government offers grants under the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS), which can reduce the upfront cost by up to £350. Additional factors, such as distance from the consumer unit or the need for electrical upgrades, can increase the overall cost.

Yes, you can charge your electric vehicle using a standard 3-pin plug socket, but it is not recommended for daily use due to its slow charging rate. Charging from a domestic socket may take over 24 hours for a full charge and poses some safety risks if the wiring is not up to current standards. A dedicated home charger is much safer and faster, providing a more efficient solution for regular EV charging.

The UK government currently offers the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS), which provides up to £350 towards the installation of a home charging unit. This grant is available to homeowners who have dedicated off-street parking and own or lease an eligible electric vehicle. Some workplaces also offer grants for the installation of chargers through the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), offering similar benefits to companies looking to install charging points.

Public EV charging stations in Norfolk are widely available in convenient locations such as supermarkets, shopping centers, car parks, and motorway service stations. Apps like Zap-Map and PlugShare can help locate charging points near you, including fast and rapid chargers. Many local councils are also increasing the number of public chargers to meet the growing demand for EV infrastructure. You can read more about Norfolk charging stations in our blog. 

Fast chargers typically operate between 7kW and 22kW, and are most commonly used in homes and workplaces. They can charge a typical EV in 4 to 8 hours. Rapid chargers, on the other hand, deliver power at 50kW or more and can charge a vehicle to 80% in 30-40 minutes. Rapid chargers are primarily found in public locations, designed for quick top-ups during long journeys, while fast chargers are more suited to regular overnight charging at home.

Yes, you can install a 22kW charger at home, but it requires a three-phase electrical supply, which is not standard in most UK homes. Upgrading to a three-phase supply can be expensive and involves additional work from your utility provider. A more practical option for most households is a 7kW charger, which operates on a single-phase supply and provides efficient overnight charging.

In most cases, you do not need planning permission to install a home EV charger, provided it is located off-street and the installation complies with electrical and building regulations. However, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, you may need to check with your local planning authority to ensure compliance with any restrictions.

The cost of charging an electric car at home varies depending on your electricity tariff and the size of your vehicle’s battery. On average, it costs between 10-14p per kWh. For a vehicle with a 60kWh battery, it would cost around £6 to £8 for a full charge, significantly cheaper than filling up a petrol or diesel car. Opting for an EV-friendly tariff with off-peak rates can further reduce the cost.

Yes, modern EV chargers are designed to be weatherproof and safe for use in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, and high humidity. They are rigorously tested to meet international safety standards, and most home chargers are IP-rated to ensure water and dust resistance. It’s important to ensure proper installation by a certified professional to guarantee safety. You can read about common myths about EV chargers on Charge EV News