How to choose the right home charger for your EV
With more electric vehicles on Irish roads than ever before, installing a home EV charger is one of the best ways to charge conveniently and affordably. But with so many models and features to choose from, how do you know which charger is right for your home and car?
- There are many types of home chargers—consider your power supply, budget, and car model
- Smart features like scheduling, solar integration, and app control are worth exploring
- Check SEAI grant eligibility before choosing your charger
- Professional installation is essential for safety and performance
Compare home charger installers
Understanding your home charger options
Most EV owners in Ireland choose a Level 2 wall-mounted charger. These devices connect directly to your home’s electrical system and can charge your car significantly faster than a standard plug-in cable. Power outputs typically range from 7.4kW to 22kW, depending on your home’s supply and the vehicle’s onboard charger.
Here’s a quick comparison of common charger types:
| Charger type | Power output | Typical charge time* | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-pin plug (Level 1) | 2.3 kW | 18–26 hours | Occasional, emergency use |
| Wall-mounted charger (Level 2) | 7.4 kW | 6–8 hours | Most home users |
| High power charger (Level 2) | 11–22 kW | 2–5 hours | Homes with 3-phase supply |
*Time to charge a medium EV from 20% to 80%.
What to consider when choosing your charger
1. Power output: Most Irish homes have a single-phase electricity supply, meaning a 7.4kW charger is the most suitable. If you have a 3-phase connection, you can opt for faster 11kW or 22kW chargers—but your EV also needs to support these speeds.
2. Smart charging features: Many modern chargers allow you to schedule charging during cheaper night-time hours, monitor usage, and integrate with solar panels. These features can help save money and manage your energy usage more efficiently.
3. Cable type: You’ll need to decide between a tethered charger (with a fixed cable) or an untethered model (where you use your own cable). Tethered is more convenient for daily use, but untethered can look neater and offers flexibility if you change car brands in the future.
4. SEAI grant eligibility: To qualify for the SEAI home charger grant of up to €300, you must choose a smart charger from the approved list and have it installed by a registered installer. Make sure your chosen model complies before purchasing.
5. App integration: Some chargers come with companion apps that let you track energy usage, start or stop charging remotely, and receive alerts. These features can be especially useful if you want more control over your EV’s charging habits.
Professional installation is key
Installing an EV charger is not a DIY job. A registered electrician must assess your home’s fuse board, safety standards, and available load before installation. A professional will also ensure your system is SEAI-compliant if you're applying for the grant.
Installation costs typically range from €400 to €800 depending on complexity, and some installers include grant application assistance as part of their service.
Conclusion: Take the next step with confidence
Choosing the right home EV charger depends on your car, your home’s power setup, and your preferences around features and budget. Even if you’ve already decided which charger best suits your needs, we recommend speaking with several local installers to gather their expertise and make an informed decision—both on the type of charger you want to install and who you’d like to work with.
Just fill out the form with your details, and we’ll connect you with up to four trusted local suppliers who can help you install the perfect EV charger for your home.
