Best UK Home EV Chargers & Solar Panel Installation Guide
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, the need for efficient and reliable home EV chargers grows. Choosing the best home EV chargers can be daunting, with many options available. This guide will help you navigate the UK’s best home EV chargers in 2024, ensuring you make an informed decision.
What is a Home EV Charger?
A domestic home EV charger is a device installed at a residence to charge electric vehicles (EVs). These chargers connect to the home’s electrical system and can provide faster and more efficient charging compared to standard household outlets. They are designed to be user-friendly, with features such as scheduling, monitoring, and safety mechanisms to ensure efficient and secure charging of EVs at home.
Integrating EV Chargers with Solar Panel Systems
Integrating an EV charger with a solar panel system allows homeowners to use renewable energy to charge their electric vehicles. This setup not only reduces electricity costs but also minimizes the carbon footprint by utilizing clean energy. The system typically includes solar panels that generate electricity, an inverter that converts the energy for home use, and the EV charger that charges the vehicle. Advanced systems can prioritize solar energy for charging and even allow for energy storage in batteries for later use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an EV Charger
PRICE
Price is a significant factor when selecting an EV charger. While all chargers perform the same basic function, prices vary based on additional features, brand, and design. It’s essential to balance your budget with the features you need.
TETHERED VS. UNTETHERED
A tethered charger has a fixed cable, making it convenient for regular use with one type of vehicle. An untethered charger requires you to use your cable, offering flexibility if you have multiple EVs with different connectors.
CHARGING SPEED AND POWER SUPPLY
Most home chargers offer 7kW charging, sufficient for overnight charging. However, some models support 22kW charging, requiring a three-phase power supply, which might not be available in all homes.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Modern EV chargers come with various features such as smartphone apps, smart home integration, and energy monitoring. These features add convenience and efficiency to your charging routine.
INSTALLATION COSTS
Installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the installation and your home’s electrical system. Always factor in these costs when budgeting for your EV charger.
Our Choices for the Best Home EV Chargers in the UK
Andersen A2
Price from: £1,199 (+installation from £395)
Best for: Choice of colours and built-in cable storage
Connection type: Tethered
Max charging speed: 7kW (single phase), 22kW (three phase)
Dimensions: 494 x 348 x 148mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Stylish design with customizable finishes | Higher price point |
| Built-in cable storage | Installation cost not included |
| Remote control and scheduling via app |
Easee One
Price from: Around £500 plus installation
Best for: Value for money and compact size
Connection type: Tethered or untethered
Charging speed: 7.4kW
Dimensions: 253 x 193 x 106mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Compact and discreet | Fewer colour options |
| Affordable | Basic app functionality |
| Supports multiple units on a single fuse |
EO Mini Pro 3
Price from: £966 installed
Best for: Being small and unobtrusive
Connection type: Tethered or untethered
Max charging speed: 7.2kW
Dimensions: 230mm x 151mm x 125mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Compact design | Higher cost |
| Flexible cable options | Limited charging speed compared to competitors |
| Smart home integration |
Hypervolt Home 3 Pro
Price from: £690 plus installation
Best for: Five-star Trustpilot reviews
Connection type: Tethered
Charging speed: 7kW
Dimensions: 328 x 243 x 101mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| High customer satisfaction | Only available in tethered form |
| Stylish design with illumination options | Moderate price |
| Voice control via Alexa |
Indra Smart LUX
Price from: £1,249 installed
Best for: Narrow parking spaces
Connection type: Tethered
Max charging speed: 7.4kW
Dimensions: 201 x 306 x 78mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Slim design for tight spaces | Higher price point |
| Solar power compatibility | Limited to tethered connection |
| Full control via app |
Myenergi Zappi
Price from: £779 plus installation
Best for: Integration with renewable energy sources
Connection type: Tethered or untethered
Max charging speed: 7.4kW or 22kW
Dimensions: 439 x 282 x 122mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Integration with renewable energy | Higher installation cost |
| Display for easy monitoring | Larger size |
| Smart charging modes |
Ohme Home Pro
Price from: £949 installed
Best for: Tariff integration and cost tracking
Connection type: Tethered
Max charging speed: 7.4kW
Dimensions: 170 x 200 x 100mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Tracks energy costs | Basic design |
| Syncs with energy tariffs | Higher price |
| Easy app control |
Project EV EVA-07S-SE
Price from: £489 plus installation
Best for: Value for money
Connection type: Tethered or untethered
Max charging speed: 7.3kW
Dimensions: 282 x 220 x 122mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Basic design |
| Solar compatibility | Limited app functionality |
| Comprehensive features for the price |
Rolec QUBEV Smart
Price from: £745 plus installation
Best for: Simple and functional design
Connection type: Tethered
Max charging speed: 7.4kW or 22kW
Dimensions: 330 x 200 x 132mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Basic app functionality |
| Solar power compatibility | Limited design options |
| Multi-user support |
Wallbox Pulsar Max
Price from: £589 plus installation
Best for: Low price
Connection type: Tethered
Max charging speed: 7.4kW
Dimensions: 166 x 163 x 82mm
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordable | No built-in display |
| Compact design | Limited to tethered connection |
| Voice control support |
