Discover the Best EV Chargers for UK Homes

At Solar Steve, we understand the importance of selecting the right EV charger for your electric vehicle. As the market for electric vehicles continues to grow, so does the demand for dependable and efficient charging solutions. In this specific blog, we present the outstanding EV chargers in UK, making sure that you make an informed decision for your charging needs.

Understanding EV Charger Types

Level 1 Chargers

Level 1 chargers are basic chargers that operate in a standard household venue. While suitable for emergency situations, they typically offer slow charging speeds and are not suitable for everyday use.

Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 chargers provide faster charging speeds compared to Level 1 chargers. These chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit and are commonly found in residential settings. They offer a reasonable solution for daily charging needs and are consistent with most of electric vehicles.

DC Fast Chargers

Best DC fast chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers, offer the quickest charging speeds available. These chargers are qualified to deliver a considerable amount of power to quickly recharge your electric vehicle’s battery. However, they require specialized equipment and are predominantly found in public charging stations.

Solar charging

EV car drivers have the possibility to extremely reduce energy and vehicle running costs by considering investment in a solar PV (photovoltaic) collection for their home or business.

The combination of solar panels with a smart home charger equipped with consistent functionality is becoming increasingly common among various EV brands. Many manufacturers either include this feature in their existing products or offer versions of chargers specifically designed for solar connectivity.

Before dedicating to a solar investment, there are a few important concerns to keep in mind. Firstly, homeowners need to confirm that their roof has enough space to adjust a solar collection. Further, the roof configuration plays a vital role in deciding the energy output from the panels. Visit the article for more information. Contact Us to get the best services and prices for your EV charger installations.

Usually, homes with a South-facing direction in the UK and minimal shading offer the optimal conditions for maximizing electrical output from solar panels. While East or West-facing homes in the UK, can still achieve the right performance, however, North-facing properties or homes in the UK are generally not suitable for solar panel installations.

Options For EV Chargers

When considering various EV chargers, it’s essential to verify whether the chosen model offers solar functionality to capitalize on renewable energy sources.

For those interested in enhancing home energy management, investing in a battery storage system presents another opportunity. Such systems allow users to store excess solar energy generated during the day for later use, specifically during the evenings when solar production declines because of the sunset. This stored energy can then be utilised to charge electric vehicles overnight, further reducing reliance on the grid.

However, it’s important to recognise that there is an upfront cost linked with solar system and the battery storage acquisitions. The benefits of these systems accrue over the long term, with returns realized gradually over several years rather than instantly. Therefore, adopting solar panel system and solar battery storage represents a strategic investment in long-term energy efficiency and sustainability.

Top EV Chargers in the UK

1. Zap-Home 7kW Charger

• The Zap-Home 7kW charger is a the most popular choice among UK, and EV car owners for its reliability and affordability.
• With a elegant and compact design, the Zap-Home charger is suitable for both home and commercial use.
• Its 7kW charging power provides efficient charging for most electric vehicles, allowing you to top up your battery quickly and conveniently.

And the best part is that Solar Steve also provides services for both home EV charger installation and Commercial EV charger installation 

2. Pod Point Solo Charger

• The Pod Point Solo charger is known for its user-friendly interface and robust construction.
• Featuring a weatherproof design, the Pod Point Solo charger is suitable for outdoor installations, making it ideal for residential properties without garage access.
• With adjustable charging speeds, you can customize the charging process based on your preferences and electricity tariffs.

3. Rolec WallPod EV Chargers

• The Rolec WallPod charger offers versatility and reliability, making it a popular choice among UK, and among EV car owners.
• Available in various power ratings, including 3.6kW, 7.2kW, and 22kW, the Rolec WallPod charger can accommodate different electric vehicle models and charging requirements.
• Its durable construction and integrated safety features ensure peace of mind during the charging process.

EV Chargers Installation Options

Under building regulations, hardwired charging points require a new trustworthy circuit, necessitating the expertise of a professional electrician for installation, so being a trustworthy installer you can Contact Us today to get your EV charger installation services from Solar Steve. Experts will assess your home’s electrical panel to guarantee the fact that it can handle the additional load and that the installation complies with safety standards.

 Installing EV chargers at home

When considering options for installing an EV charger at home, several factors come into play.

Level 1 Charging

Level 1 charging station entails plugging your EV car into a standard 120-volt household outlet using the vehicle’s provided charger. While this option is straightforward and doesn’t require additional installation, it is the slowest, with a maximum output of 1.3 kW to 2.4 kW, taking up to 24 hours to fully charge your vehicle.

Level 2 Charging

Level 2 charging station involves installing a dedicated charging station at home, requiring a 240-volt electrical circuit, similar to an electric oven. These stations can fully charge an EV in four to eight hours and are available in various power levels, typically between 7kW and 22kW, with different component options to suit individual needs.

Level 2 charging stations come in hardwired and plug-in versions. Hardwired stations offer an endless installation directly connected to your electrical panel, providing a cleaner look without the need for a separate plug. Plug-in stations offer more portability, suitable for those planning to move or upgrade their EV car charging equipment.

Solar-Powered Charging

For homes equipped with solar photovoltaic panels (PV), connecting the EV charger to the solar system allows for charging using clean, renewable energy. Solar systems utilize inverters to convert solar energy from DC to usable AC, aligning with the current home EV charging units. However, considering that many individuals charge their vehicles at night, a solar battery is necessary to store energy generated during daylight hours for overnight charging usage.

Before making a final decision, it’s essential to analyze your driving habits, which include,  daily driving distance, the availability of EV charging stations in your area, and your home’s electrical capability. Consulting with an electrician and researching diverse EV charger models can assist you in determining the best charging solution for your specific requirements.

For those seeking the best EV chargers in the UK for home use in 2024, it’s vital to explore various prospects available to guarantee optimal performance and compatibility with your electric vehicle and charging needs.

Conclusion

Selecting the right EV charger is essential for maximizing the convenience and efficiency of your electric vehicle. Visit our website at Solar Steve to get the top EV chargers in the UK, you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences. Invest in a reliable EV charger today and enjoy the benefits of sustainable transportation.