Ultimate EV Charger Buying Guide for UK Homes in 2025
Buying your first EV charger? With electric vehicle (EV) ownership soaring—1.5 million fully electric cars by April 2025—choosing the right home charger can feel overwhelming.
Our EV charger buying guide simplifies the process, answering key questions like “what EV charger should I buy?” and “which EV charger is best for my home?” Whether you’re a Tesla driver or own a Nissan Leaf, we’ll help you find the best EV charger in the UK for 2025 with top picks from brands like Zappi, OHME and Hypervolt.
Why You Need a Home EV Charger
Home charging is the easiest and cheapest way to power your EV. It saves you £467 a year compared to public chargers and lets you charge overnight for as little as £2 using off-peak tariffs like Intelligent Octopus Go (7p/kWh). It’s safer than a 3-pin plug and skips public charger queues. This guide covers costs, compatibility, and more to find your ideal charger.
Key Factors to Choose the Best EV Charger
Choosing the right EV charger for your UK home starts with understanding your needs. To answer “what EV charger do I need?” consider these factors based on our expert insights and FAQs:
Charging Speed: Charging speed, measured in kilowatts (kW), affects how fast your EV charges. Options for UK homes include:
7kW Fast Charger: Charges in 4–6 hours, ideal for daily drivers. Popular models include Zappi Glo, Easee One, OHME ePod.
22kW Fast Charger: Charges in 2–3 hours but needs a three-phase power supply, rare in UK homes. Best for high-mileage drivers or multi-EV households (e.g., Tesla). Try the Wallbox 22kW range.
Multiphase EV Chargers (7kW & 22kW): Multiphase chargers such as Zappi and Easee Max Multiphase adapt to single-phase (7kW) or three-phase (22kW) supplies, future-proof for upgrades.
Most UK homeowners prefer 7kW chargers for affordability and speed. If your home has a three-phase supply, 22kW or multiphase chargers can offer faster charging. Check your EV’s onboard charger capacity (e.g., 7.4kW max).
Connector Type: Connector type ensures EV compatibility. Type 2 is standard for modern UK EVs; older models may use Type 1. Check your EV’s manual.
Tethered vs. Untethered: Tethered chargers have fixed cables for convenience but may limit compatibility. Untethered chargers use detachable cables for flexibility but need storage. Explore tethered or untethered options.
Smart Features: Smart chargers save money with app-controlled off-peak charging. UK regulations require smart features like Wi-Fi and energy monitoring.
Power Supply: Power supply determines charger compatibility. Most UK homes have single-phase power for 7kW chargers. Three-phase power supports 22kW charging but is rare in UK homes. If you are unsure of your home's power supply, consult an electrician before buying your charger .
Budget: Budget affects your choice. Affordable options like the Indra Smart Pro suit cost-conscious buyers, whilst Hypervolt models offer premium features such as Amazon Alexa integration.
EV Charger FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
Charging time for an electric vehicle (EV) using 7kW or 22kW chargers depends on the EV’s battery size (in kWh), the charger’s power output, and the vehicle’s maximum onboard charging rate (typically 7.4kW or 11kW for AC charging, with some EVs supporting 22kW). Below are estimates for common battery sizes, assuming charging from 0% to 100% at optimal conditions
7kW Charger
Small Battery: (40kWh, e.g., Nissan Leaf): ~5.7 hours.
Medium Battery: (60kWh, e.g., Tesla Model 3): ~8.6 hours.
Large Battery: (100kWh, e.g., Tesla Model S): ~14.3 hours
Note: Most EVs charge overnight (6–8 hours) to 80–100% with a 7kW charger, ideal for daily commutes.
22kW Charger
Small Battery: (40kWh) ~1.8–3.6 hours.
Medium Battery: (60kWh): ~2.7–5.5 hours.
Large Battery: (100kWh): ~4.5–9.1 hours.
Note: 22kW charging requires a three-phase electrical supply (not standard in most UK homes) and an EV with 22kW AC capability.
Key Factors to Consider:
Battery Management: Charging slows above 80% to protect battery health, adding ~20–30% to total time.
Efficiency Losses: Real-world efficiency is ~85–90%, slightly increasing times (e.g., 8.6 hours becomes ~9–9.5 hours for 60kWh at 7kW)
Tariff Optimisation: Using Octopus tariffs, charge during off-peak hours (e.g., midnight–5 AM at 7p/kWh) to save costs.
How Much Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger at Home?
Home installation costs will vary. Factors include:
- Electrical upgrades (e.g., 200-amp service).
- Cable run distance from the breaker box.
- Charger type (7kW vs. 22kW).
It is best to consult with a local electrician to discuss costs ahead of time.
Do I Need a Special Power Supply for an EV Charger?
Most homes can support a 7kW EV charger with a standard single-phase power supply. However, if you’re considering a higher-powered charger (e.g., 22kW), you may need a three-phase power supply. A qualified electrician can evaluate your home’s electrical system and recommend the best setup for your needs.
It’s also worth noting that some chargers, like the MyEnergi Zappi, are designed to work with solar panels, offering an eco-friendly charging solution.
What is the Difference Between Tethered and Untethered Chargers?
The main difference between tethered and untethered chargers lies in their design
Tethered: Has a fixed cable (5–10m), convenient for plug-and-go charging but less discreet.
Untethered: Uses a detachable cable, offering flexibility for different cable lengths and a tidier look but requires storing the cable.
Are EV Chargers Weatherproof?
Yes, the majority of EV chargers are designed to be weatherproof and can be safely installed outdoors.
How Much Does it Cost to Charge an EV at Home?
Charging an electric vehicle at home is one of the most cost-effective ways to power your EV in the UK. Costs depend on the EV’s battery size (in kWh), electricity tariff rates, charger efficiency and charging habits.
Battery Size: Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), this determines how much energy is needed. Common battery sizes include:
Small: 40kWh (e.g., Nissan Leaf).
Medium: 60kWh (e.g., Tesla Model 3).
Large: 100kWh (e.g., Tesla Model S, Audi e-tron)
Electricity Tariff: Rates vary by provider and plan. Octopus Energy’s EV-focused tariffs offer some of the lowest rates:
Intelligent Octopus Go: ~7.5p/kWh off-peak (10 PM–4 AM), ~30p/kWh peak (2025 rates, per Octopus Energy).
Octopus Go: ~9p/kWh off-peak (12:30 AM–4:30 AM), ~31p/kWh peak.
Standard Variable Tariff: ~24p/kWh (UK average, Ofgem price cap estimate for 2025).
Charger Efficiency: 7kW and 22kW chargers have ~85–90% efficiency due to heat losses, so a 60kWh battery may require ~66–70kWh from the grid.
Charging Habits: Smart chargers optimise for off-peak rates, reducing costs. Charging during peak hours increases expenses.
Charger Power:
7kW: Standard for UK homes with single-phase power, charging a 60kWh battery in ~8–9 hours.
22kW: Requires three-phase power, charging faster (~3–5 hours for 60kWh, if EV supports 22kW AC), but costs are similar per kWh unless time-of-use tariffs vary.
Comparison to Petrol/Diesel Costs
EV Charging: A 60kWh EV charged 10 times/month on Intelligent Octopus Go costs £53/month. At 3 miles/kWh, it covers ~2,160 miles/month (far exceeding typical needs).
Petrol Car: A car with 40mpg and petrol at £1.40/litre (2025 estimate) costs ~£105/month for 2,160 miles (7p/mile vs. 2.5p/mile for EV).
Savings: EVs save ~50–70% on fuel costs.
What Maintenance Do EV Chargers Require?
EV chargers are designed for low upkeep. Smart chargers receive updates via apps or WiFi/4G, ensuring optimal performance.
Cables should be inspected regularly for wear, especially on tethered chargers.
Can I Install an EV Charger Myself?
Installing an EV charger yourself is not recommended due to UK electrical regulations (BS7671, 18th Edition Wiring Regulations). Home installations require a qualified electrician to ensure safety, compliance and eligibility for product warranties. Incorrect wiring risks fire hazards, voided warranties and invalidated insurance.Compare Top EV Chargers for 2025
| Charger | Speed | Price Range | Warranty | Tethered/Untethered | Smartphone Controlled | Manual Control | 4G Connection | WiFi Connection | Solar Compatibility | Octopus Tariff Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zappi Glo | 7kW | ££ | 3 years | Tethered | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Zappi | 7kW/22kW | £££ | 3 years | Both | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| OHME ePod | 7kW | ££ | 3 years | Untethered | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| OHME Home Pro | 7kW | ££ | 3 years | Tethered | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Hypervolt | 7kW | £££ | 3 years | Tethered | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Pod Point Solo 3S | 7kW/22kW | ££ | 3 years | Both | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Indra Smart Pro | 7kW | £ | 3 years | Both | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Top EV Charger Recommendations for 2025
Based on performance, features and UK popularity, here are our top picks to answer “which EV charger is best UK?”
MyEnergi Zappi Glo
Best for eco-conscious drivers with solar panels. Features Type 2 compatibility, smart app control and IP65 rating.
OHME Home Pro
Available with 5 or 8-metre tethered charging cables, features a clear LCD screen for easy monitoring, compatible with Octopus Tariffs and benefits from smart scheduling
Hypervolt
Premium 7kW charger available with tethered cables in 5m, 7.5m, and 10m lengths. App-controlled with solar integration options and compatibility with EV charging tariffs like Intelligent Octopus Go.
Pod Point Solo 3S
Reliable Type 2 charger available in tethered or untethered models with a 5-year warranty and solar compatibility. Great for outdoor setups.
Indra Smart Pro
Ideal for budget conscious buyers. Available as tethered or untethered 7kW units. Solar and app compatibility
Ready to Buy Your EV Charger?
With this EV charger buying guide, you’re equipped to choose the best home EV charger for 2025. Whether you prioritise solar integration, affordability, or premium features, Electricpoint has you covered with our wide range of EV chargers.
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