EV · 4 min read
EV charger installation, explained.
Charging at home is cheaper and easier than relying on public networks, but the install itself has a few quirks worth understanding before you commit. Here is what actually matters when choosing a charger and an installer.
Key things to consider
Tethered vs untethered
Tethered chargers have a fixed cable — quicker for daily use. Untethered units use your own cable and look tidier when not in use.
Smart features and tariffs
All new home chargers must be smart. The useful bit is integration with tariffs like Intelligent Octopus, which can drop your charging cost to around 7p/kWh.
Load balancing
If your home already has heavy electrical load — heat pump, solar, induction hob — load balancing prevents the charger tripping your main fuse.
Pros
- Charge overnight for as little as 7–9p/kWh
- Wake up to a full battery every morning
- Solar integration captures free midday generation
- Adds value and EV-readiness to your property
Cons
- Upfront cost of £800–£1,400 fitted
- Cable run from consumer unit can be intrusive on some homes
- Off-street parking is required for most installs
- Grant funding is limited to flats and rental properties now
What it actually costs
Typical install cost
A standard 7kW home charger fitted is £800–£1,200. Longer cable runs, consumer unit upgrades or three-phase supply will push that higher.
OZEV grant eligibility
The £350 OZEV grant is no longer available to most homeowners — it now applies to flats, rental properties, and some workplace installs.
FAQs
Do I need a special tariff?
Not strictly, but EV-specific tariffs cut the running cost roughly in half. Most owners switch within a few weeks of installing a charger.
How long does installation take?
A typical install is half a day. Complex runs, fuse upgrades or DNO notifications can extend that to a full day.
Can I install one myself?
No — home chargers must be installed by an OZEV-approved electrician and notified to your DNO and Building Control.
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