How to Choose an EV Charger
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, and a crucial part of owning one is having a reliable and efficient charger. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the correct EV charger.
(Image credit: Hive)
Budget
Most buyers are concerned about the cost of the EV charger. Our partner, ChargedEV, offers a range of chargers to fit different budgets, starting from just £899, including installation.
Tethered or Untethered
Tethered EV chargers mean that the cable is permanently attached to the unit. This setup is sometimes preferred for convenience—you can uncoil the cable and plug it into your vehicle in seconds. However these cables are usually limited to around five metres, although some brands offer longer lengths. If you need a longer cable, you will need an untethered EV charger.
As the name suggests, untethered EV chargers don't have cables permanently attached to the unit. Instead, they feature a socket, and they are sometimes referred to as "socket-only" chargers. This type requires users to connect their cable to the charger and the car. While they don't typically come with a cable, untethered chargers offer greater flexibility. You can purchase cables of up to 20 meters length, which can be particularly useful when extra reach is required if you are not always able to park in the street right in front of your house (the cable can be run one or two spaces up or down the front of your house by running the cable along the gutter) or if you have a particularly wide front garden.
It's vital to check that the cable matches your EV's plug socket, as EVs have either Type 1 or Type 2 plug sockets for at-home charging.
Some untethered chargers also provide the option to 'lock' the cable in their socket for added security.
Connectivity
Modern EV chargers have advanced connectivity features, allowing you to manage and optimise your charging sessions easily. Network-connected chargers offer benefits such as streamlined billing, maintenance, energy usage tracking, over-the-air updates, new feature additions, charge scheduling, and status updates, all accessible via a handy smartphone app. Many of these intelligent chargers also benefit energy suppliers by tracking energy use efficiently.
Special Features
Consider any specific features essential for your needs before choosing an EV charger to use with your Charge Gully, as this can significantly impact your choice. Most smart EV chargers offer functionalities like cost monitoring, smart charging and scheduling, and auto power balancing. However, some chargers come with unique features like:
Solar charging – allows users to charge their EVs using solar panels, reducing their reliance on the grid and making them more sustainable.
Smart EV tariff integration – you can optimise your charging based on your energy tariff to save on electricity costs such as Intelligent Octopus, OVO Energy Charge Anytime, E.ON Next Drive or British Gas Smart Charge.
Kerb Appeal
When selecting the correct EV charger, consider its aesthetic appeal and how it will complement your home environment.
Choose a charger you find visually appealing.
Think about where you'll install the charger. You might prefer a more understated design if it's visible from the street.
The size of the charger can affect where it can be installed and how accessible the power supply is.
Office for Zero Emissions
Make sure you check that your charger is approved by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles and it is installed by an OZEV approved installer if you would like to apply for the £350 government on-street household grant.
Choosing the correct EV charger involves balancing your budget, convenience, connectivity, special features, and aesthetic preferences. Considering these factors, you can find the perfect charger to meet your needs and enhance your EV ownership experience.
And remember, you don't need a driveway to benefit from at-home EV charging. With Charge Gully, you can safely charge your vehicle even when you park on the street!