Level 2 EV chargers for Irish homes
Thinking about installing an EV charger at home? A Level 2 wall-mounted charger is the most popular and practical solution for electric vehicle owners across Ireland. Faster, safer, and more reliable than a standard 3-pin plug, it’s the smart way to keep your car charged and ready to go.
Level 2 chargers — also known as wall boxes — are fixed to your home’s exterior wall or a dedicated post. These units provide a direct and efficient connection between your home’s 240V supply and your EV, offering charging speeds of 7kW to 22kW. This means you can charge your battery to 80% in as little as 4 to 10 hours.
What is a Level 2 EV charger?
A Level 2 charger is a dedicated electric vehicle charge point installed at home or at a business. Unlike Level 1 chargers, which plug into a standard socket, Level 2 units are hardwired or connected via a specialised 240V outlet and are typically wall-mounted. These chargers deliver much faster charging speeds — averaging around 64 miles (or 100 km) of range per hour of charging.
Most Irish homeowners choose a 7kW charger, which offers the perfect balance of speed, affordability, and compatibility with single-phase electricity, which is standard in most homes in Ireland.
Benefits of wall-mounted home EV chargers
Installing a Level 2 charger at home offers several advantages over using a portable cable or public chargers:
- Faster charging: 3 to 10 times faster than a 3-pin plug, depending on your charger’s power output
- Convenience: Charge your EV overnight and start every day with a full battery
- Smart features: Many wall boxes include WiFi/app support, energy monitoring, and scheduled charging
- Safety: Built-in protections against overload, overheating and weather exposure
- Grant support: Eligible for the SEAI EV Home Charger Grant (up to €300)
How fast is a Level 2 charger?
Charging time depends on your EV’s battery size and the output of the charger:
- 3.7kW: Adds roughly 20 km of range per hour; full charge in 12–16 hours
- 7kW: Adds around 40–50 km per hour; full charge in 6–8 hours
- 11–22kW: Adds up to 100+ km per hour, though 22kW requires a three-phase supply not common in Irish homes
Most EVs in Ireland use a Type 2 (Mennekes) connector, and most Level 2 wall boxes are designed with this in mind.
Frequently asked questions about Level 2 charging
How much does it cost to install a Level 2 charger at home?
Installation costs typically range from €700 to €1,200, depending on the charger brand and your home’s wiring. You may be eligible for a €300 grant from SEAI to help offset the cost.
Can I install a 22kW charger at home?
Only if your home has a three-phase power supply, which is uncommon in Ireland. Most homeowners opt for a 7kW charger, which works perfectly with standard single-phase supply.
What connector type do Level 2 chargers use?
Level 2 chargers in Ireland almost always use a Type 2 (Mennekes) connector, which is compatible with most EVs sold in Europe. Check your car's charging port to confirm compatibility.
Can I use solar panels with a Level 2 charger?
Yes. Many smart wall boxes can be integrated with home solar systems to optimise when and how you charge your EV. Some even prioritise solar energy before pulling from the grid.
Is a wall box safer than using a 3-pin plug?
Absolutely. Wall-mounted chargers are designed specifically for EVs, with built-in safety features to prevent overloading and overheating. They're far more suitable for long-term daily use than a standard household socket.
