How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Property

Introduction: Why the Right EV Charger Matters

With the rapid rise in electric vehicle (EV) ownership across the UK, having a reliable and efficient home EV charger has never been more important. The right charger doesn’t just save you time — it saves you money, enhances convenience, and ensures your EV is always ready to go when you are.

But choosing an EV charger can be overwhelming. With various types, charging speeds, and features available, it’s easy to feel lost. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to help you choose the perfect charger for your home — and ensure you’re fully prepared for installation.

Whether you’re based in Newcastle, Durham, or anywhere else in the North East, PSJ Electrical is here to help you charge smarter.

Types of EV Chargers: Level 1 vs. Level 2

There are two primary types of EV chargers used in residential settings:

Level 1 (Standard 3-Pin Plug)

Uses a standard UK domestic socket
Charges slowly — typically 8–12+ hours for a full charge
Not ideal for daily use or larger battery vehicles

Level 2 (Dedicated Charging Unit)

Requires a professionally installed wall-mounted unit
Charges 3x–5x faster than Level 1 (around 3–6 hours for a full charge)
Safer, more efficient, and future-proof

Recommendation: For most UK homeowners, a Level 2 charger is the best long-term solution.

Tethered vs. Untethered Chargers: Pros and Cons

When choosing a charger, one key decision is whether to go tethered (cable attached) or untethered (socket only).

Tethered Chargers

Pros: Convenient – just plug in and charge
Cons: Cable is fixed length and may not be compatible with all future EVs

Untethered Chargers

Pros: Flexible – works with all Type 2 cables
Cons: Slightly less convenient; must plug cable in at both ends

If you value convenience and only plan to use one EV, go tethered. Want more future flexibility? Choose untethered.

Smart vs. Standard Chargers

Modern EV chargers come in standard and smart versions. Here’s how they compare:

Smart Chargers

Can be controlled via smartphone apps
Schedule charging for off-peak energy rates
Monitor electricity usage
Receive firmware updates

Standard Chargers

Basic plug-in functionality
No connectivity or remote control features

In most UK households, smart chargers offer long-term cost savings and enhanced control.

Installation Readiness: Electrical System Requirements

Before installation, your home’s electrical system needs to meet basic safety and capacity standards:

Consumer unit (fuse board) must have spare capacity
Property should have modern wiring and earthing
Some homes may require a load management system to prevent overloading
Outdoor installations need proper IP-rated weatherproofing

Pro Tip: PSJ Electrical provides a free site assessment to check your installation readiness before quoting.

Costs & Government Grants (UK-specific)

Typical EV charger installation costs in the UK range from £800–£1,200, depending on charger type, cable length, and installation complexity.

Government Grants (as of 2025):

OZEV EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 off the cost of a home charger for eligible flat owners and renters.
Business owners may qualify for Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) funding.

Need help applying? We’ll guide you through the OZEV process as part of your install.

FAQs

❓How long does installation take?

Most home installations are completed in under one day.

❓Can I use my regular socket to charge my EV?

Yes, but it’s slow and not recommended for daily use.

❓Will I need a new fuse board?

Only if your current one lacks capacity or safety compliance — we’ll check during your quote.

❓What’s the difference between 7kW and 22kW chargers?

7kW is standard for UK homes; 22kW requires 3-phase power, which most residential properties don’t have.

❓Is PSJ Electrical certified for EV installations?

Yes — we’re NICEIC-approved and OZEV-registered installers.

Ready to Get Your Home EV-Ready?

Choosing the right charger is just the first step — getting it professionally installed is where PSJ Electrical comes in. We serve homes across:

Visit our EV Charger Installation Services page to learn more, or contact us now to book your free site survey.

Make the Switch with Confidence

Choosing the right EV charger doesn’t have to be complicated. With PSJ Electrical Engineers, you’ll get expert advice, professional installation, and ongoing support.

Get in touch today for a free consultation or quote.

📞 07958 116 827 or 07710 405 015 | email phil@psjelectrical.co.uk
📍 Serving Durham, Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider North East

Tags: EV charging, electric vehicles, home charger, smart charger, OZEV grant, North East electricians, PSJ Electrical

Tag Archive for: OZEV grant