If you're looking to buy an electric vehicle charger, there are some key factors you should consider to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Here's a breakdown of what to look for when shopping for an EV charger:
Types of Chargers
There are three main types of chargers: Level 1, 2 and 3.
These are also interchangeably known as Type 1, 2 and 3.
Level 1 Chargers
Level 1 Chargers are typically the portable charger that comes with your Electric vehicle.
These chargers use a standard outlet (120 volts) and can take up to 12-24 hours to fully charge your car.
While these are slow, they're easy to use and accessible anywhere you can find to plug your charger in, such as when visiting friends.
You may find that you won’t want to rely on a level 1 charger for your home EV charger, but they are handy in a pinch.
Level 2 Chargers
Level 2 chargers require a 240-volt outlet and are much faster than Level 1 chargers.
Depending on your EV's battery size, they can charge your car in 4-8 hours.
They are a great option if you don't want to wait all night for a full charge.
You can install a Level 2 charger as your home EV charger or find them at public charging stations.
And as the UK is a 240v country, there are models that are as simple as plug-and-play to use.
Level 3 Chargers
Also known as DC Fast Charging, these are the fastest chargers available and can provide an 80% charge in 30 minutes or less.
However, they're also the most expensive option and require professional installation by a qualified electrician.
You'll also need a dedicated circuit installed in your home, with a switch on your circuit breaker, which may be a significant additional cost.
Luckily, there are also public options.
Charge Speed
Charge speed is an important factor to consider when selecting a charger.
Level 2 chargers can provide a variety of charging speeds, usually ranging from 16 to 80 amps. The higher the amperage, the quicker your battery will charge.
Level 3 chargers provide the fastest charge speed but may not be compatible with all EV models.
Connector Types
Electric vehicles are equipped with one of several connector types, so you'll need to make sure the charger you buy has a suitable connector.
The two most common EV charge cable connectors are CHAdeMO and CCS (two standards).
There are multiple other options created by brands, such as Tesla, to offer both Level 1 and Level 2 charging in one socket, as well as other innovations.
Because of these differences, it's crucial to carry the appropriate charge cable and connector for your EV when you're out and about.
Also, be sure you are looking at charging stations that provide the correct connector for your vehicle.
Cost
The cost of charging an EV can vary depending on the type of charger you have and where you plug it in.
Level 1 chargers are the most affordable, with home Level 2 models costing upwards of £750, and commercial models Level 3 DC Fast Chargers will exceed £12,000 - plus installation.
Installation
Installation of your EV charger is an essential factor to consider.
Some chargers require professional installation, while others can be installed yourself.
As the UK is a 240V country, some Level 2 chargers are as simple to install as plugging them into any mains socket, ideal for rental properties and short-term stays.
Finding public charger locations
If you haven't had the opportunity to install your own charger, you may want to rely on the public network to charge your electric vehicle.
There are many thousands of public chargers throughout the UK, which you can locate and navigate by using apps like Zap Map.
Conclusion
We hope that this short guide has helped to give you an insight into what to look for when shopping for an EV charger.
Keep in mind the type of charger, connection types and speed, cost and installation requirements when choosing a charger for your electric vehicle!