Charging an electric car at home has become increasingly popular, with 80% of EV charging taking place in residential areas, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Home charging offers convenience and cost savings compared to charging at public stations. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind when setting up a home charging system.
1. Types of Home Charging: There are two main options for home charging: using a standard three-pin socket or installing a wallbox charger. While using a socket is possible, it is very slow and may take over 24 hours to fully charge a car. Wallbox chargers are a more efficient solution, providing charging speeds three times faster than a socket.
2. Charging Frequency: The frequency of home charging depends on various factors, including the size of the car’s battery, daily driving distance, and weather conditions. On average, electric cars are driven 26 miles per day. Cars with smaller batteries can provide enough range for several days of commuting without recharging. Charging to 80% rather than 100% is recommended for long-term battery health.
3. Wallbox Chargers: A wallbox charger is a stand-alone unit that is wired directly into a home’s electrical supply. It offers faster charging speeds and can be mounted on the external wall of a property. Wallbox units typically charge at 7kW, but slower options are available. Some advanced wallbox chargers can be programmed to charge at specific times or linked to solar panels for cost and energy efficiency.
4. Installation Costs: The cost of installing a wallbox charger depends on the desired charging speed and any additional features. Basic 3kW chargers start at around £100, while faster 7kW units range from £300 to £1000, depending on smart features. The cost of installation is usually included in the price, but additional charges may apply if significant changes to household wiring are required.
5. Wallbox Grant: The UK government offers a grant through its Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) department to incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles. The grant covers 75% of the price and installation cost of a wallbox, up to a maximum of £350. However, eligibility for the grant has changed, and it is now limited to certain groups, such as flat/apartment owners with off-street parking, tenants with landlord permission, and small business owners.
6. Smart Chargers: Smart chargers offer additional functionalities, such as remote scheduling and power limit settings. While they cost more to buy, the OZEV subsidy only applies to smart chargers, making them more cost-effective for eligible buyers. Smart chargers allow users to optimize their energy tariff and ensure their car is always charged and ready when needed.
7. Charging Speeds: The charging speed of a wallbox charger depends on its wattage and the car’s on-board charging adaptor. A 7kW charger is suitable for most home charging needs and can fully charge a car in a few hours. Higher wattages, such as 11kW or 22kW, require a three-phase power supply, which is rare in residential settings.
8. Three-Phase Connection: To determine if a property has a three-phase electrical supply, it is best to consult a qualified electrical engineer. However, a visual inspection near the fuse box and meter can provide initial indications. Single-phase supplies typically have one large system fuse, while three-phase supplies have three larger system fuses.
9. Tethered vs. Untethered Chargers: Tethered wallbox chargers feature a permanently attached cable, while untethered units require the use of a charging cable provided with the car. Tethered chargers are more straightforward for single-car households, while untethered chargers offer flexibility for owners of multiple EV models with different connectors.
10. Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Charging: V2G charging integrates an electric vehicle with the national grid, allowing energy providers to use the combined capacity of EV batteries for energy storage and peak power supply. While currently limited to businesses and select retail customers, V2G charging shows potential for financial benefits and renewable energy utilization. V2H and V2X charging, which connect EVs to homes or the wider grid, are under development.
In conclusion, home charging offers convenience, cost savings, and customization options for electric vehicle owners. Wallbox chargers are the preferred choice for faster and more efficient charging. The UK government provides financial incentives through the OZEV grant, although eligibility criteria have changed. Smart chargers offer additional features and may be more cost-effective with the subsidy. Overall, home charging is a practical and accessible solution for EV owners who have off-street parking or access to a driveway or garage.