With the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), more and more homeowners are considering installing EV chargers in their residential properties. Having a convenient and efficient charging solution at home not only adds convenience to daily life but also contributes to the overall sustainability of transportation. If you're planning to join the EV revolution and install a charger in your own home, it's important to explore the different types of EV chargers available to find the one that best suits your needs.
Inspired Smart Living Ltd installs professional EV charging points in New Romney, Folkstone, Hythe, and the surrounding areas of Kent. Please fill out our contact form to receive a free, no-obligation quote.
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 chargers, also known as trickle chargers, are the simplest and most basic type of EV chargers. They typically come with an electric vehicle and can be plugged into a standard 120-volt household outlet. Level 1 chargers provide a charging rate of around 2 to 5 miles of range per hour, making them the slowest option available. While they are the least expensive option, they are best suited for those with low daily driving requirements or for overnight charging when time is not a constraint.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 chargers are the most popular choice for residential EV charging due to their faster charging speed and versatility. These chargers require a 240-volt power supply, similar to what is used for larger appliances like electric dryers or ovens. Level 2 chargers typically provide a charging rate of around 10 to 30 miles of range per hour, significantly faster than Level 1 chargers. This makes them ideal for homeowners who have longer daily commutes or higher charging requirements.
They often offer additional features such as programmable charging schedules, smartphone connectivity, and energy monitoring capabilities. While the installation of Level 2 chargers may require professional assistance and potentially some electrical upgrades, they provide a reliable and efficient charging solution for residential EV owners.
DC Fast Chargers
DC Fast Chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers or rapid chargers, are the fastest charging option available for electric vehicles. These chargers utilise direct current (DC) power and are capable of providing charging rates of up to 200 miles of range in as little as 30 minutes. DC Fast Chargers require specialised infrastructure and are typically found in public charging stations or commercial locations. However, there are some residential options available for those willing to invest in the necessary equipment and electrical upgrades.
The installation process can be complex and may require significant electrical upgrades, including a three-phase power supply. Due to their high-power requirements, DC Fast Chargers are often more suitable for commercial properties or locations where quick and frequent charging is necessary.
Wireless Chargers
Wireless charging technology is an emerging option for EV owners. These chargers use inductive power transfer to recharge electric vehicles without the need for physical cables or connectors. Wireless chargers consist of a charging pad installed on the ground or embedded in a parking spot and a receiver installed on the vehicle. The charging process occurs when the vehicle is parked directly over the charging pad.
Wireless chargers offer convenience and ease of use, as there is no need to handle charging cables. However, they currently have lower charging rates compared to Level 2 chargers and are less common in residential settings. As the technology continues to advance, wireless charging may become a more viable option for residential EV charging in the future.
(More: The many benefits of installing an EV charger)
Choosing the Right EV Charger for Your Home
When selecting an EV charger for your residential property, consider your driving habits, daily commuting distance, and the availability of charging infrastructure in your area. Level 2 chargers are often the most practical and cost-effective solution for most homeowners, providing a good balance between charging speed and affordability. However, if you have a long daily commute or require frequent fast charging, you may want to explore the possibility of installing a DC Fast Charger.
It's important to consult with an electrician or a professional EV charging installer to assess your electrical capacity, evaluate installation requirements, and ensure compliance with local regulations. With the right charger installed in your residential property, you can enjoy the convenience of home charging and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future of transportation. Need more guidance in deciding which EV charger suits your needs? Contact our electricians in New Romney, Folkstone, Hythe and Kent.
The different EV charger brands we work with
When it comes to EV chargers in the UK market, there are several reputable brands and options to consider. Two prominent brands worth exploring are Hypervolt and EV-comply, which offer a range of chargers suitable for residential properties.
Hypervolt EV Chargers
Hypervolt EV Chargers are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and feature-rich charging solution. These chargers are eligible for the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant, providing financial support for the installation of EV chargers. With a three-year warranty, you can have peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.
One of the notable features of Hypervolt chargers is the dedicated app for control and monitoring. This app allows you to conveniently manage your charging sessions, monitor energy usage, and even schedule charging based on energy tariffs. Additionally, the chargers integrate seamlessly with smart home systems, enabling you to control and monitor the charging process from the comfort of your home.
EV-comply
EV-comply is a leading software provider for EV charger installers in the UK. They offer comprehensive solutions to simplify the process of installing an electric vehicle charger in residential properties. By partnering with EV-comply, homeowners can benefit from the latest smart technology and expertise in the field.
With EV-comply, you can expect a streamlined and efficient installation process. They provide the necessary tools and support to ensure that your EV charger installation meets all regulatory requirements and standards. Their software solutions help installers manage the entire process, from assessing electrical capacity to obtaining necessary permits and certifications.
Contact our Electricians in New Romney and the surrounding areas for an EV Charging Point installation
Inspired Smart Living Ltd can assist with the installation of an electric vehicle charging station for your house or place of business. We have the expertise and experience needed to install an EV charging station promptly and effectively as leading electricians in New Romney, Hythe, and Kent. Call us at 07971 857475 or contact us at help@inspiredsmartliving.com. Visit our reviews page to see recent customers' testimonials and our gallery page to see the quality of our projects.
Inspired Smart Living Ltd, in addition to EV charging, provides a comprehensive range of electrical services, including electrical installations, Smart Home & Home Networking, Security Systems & CCTV, Electrical contracting, and renewable electrics.
