EV Chargers: A Guide to Charging Your Electric Vehicle at Home

Charging your electric vehicle (EV) at home is one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to ensure your car is always ready to go. With the right charger, you can take advantage of cheaper Octopus Energy rates and tariffs, reduce your carbon footprint, and maximize your fuel savings. This guide will walk you through the essentials of home EV charging, from selecting the right charger to understanding the installation process and how you can save money while charging.

Why Install An EV Charger at Home?

Home EV chargers offer a level of convenience that public charging stations simply can’t match. By installing a charger at home, you can plug in your car overnight and wake up to a fully charged battery every morning. This means no more detours to public charging points or waiting for a charger to become available. Additionally, home charging is often more cost-effective, especially if you switch to a tariff designed for EV drivers, offering cheaper rates during off-peak hours (depending on your energy tariff).

Types Of Home EV Chargers

There are several types of home EV chargers available in the UK, each offering different features and benefits. Most chargers are either tethered, meaning they come with a fixed cable, or untethered, which allows you to use your own cable. Some chargers are also smart-enabled, meaning they can be controlled via an app, integrate with home energy management systems, or even optimize charging times to take advantage of lower energy rates. Popular models in the UK include:

• Ohme ePod: An untethered charger offering flexibility for those who prefer to use their own cable.
• Ohme Home Pro: A smart charger that integrates with intelligent energy tariffs for optimized charging.
• MyEnergi Zappi 2: Ideal for homes with solar panels, allowing you to charge your EV using renewable energy.

Read more about your your EV charging options through Octopus Energy [External Link].

How Home EV Chargers Help You Save

Home EV chargers not only offer convenience but also significant cost savings. Many energy providers offer special tariffs for EV drivers, which provide cheaper electricity during off-peak hours, usually late at night. By scheduling your EV to charge during these times, you can dramatically reduce your energy bills. Some smart chargers even allow you to monitor and control your charging remotely, ensuring you always charge at the lowest possible rates.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge an EV?

The cost to charge an EV at home varies depending on factors such as your electricity tariff, the efficiency of your EV, and the size of its battery. On average, charging an EV from empty to full at home costs between £10 and £15, assuming an average electricity rate of around 34p per kWh. However, by switching to a tariff designed for EV drivers, such as those offering cheaper rates during off-peak hours, you can significantly reduce this cost. For example, with off-peak rates as low as 6p per kWh, you could fully charge a typical EV for as little as £2 to £5, making electric driving far more economical than petrol or diesel.

Not sure what we mean by peak and off-peak electricity? Read more here.

How Smart Charging Works

Smart chargers are becoming increasingly popular in the UK due to their ability to integrate with smart energy tariffs and home energy systems. These chargers can automatically adjust the charging rate based on real-time electricity prices or your home’s energy usage. For example, if you have a solar panel system, a smart charger like the MyEnergi Zappi 2 can prioritize using solar energy to charge your EV, further reducing your reliance on grid electricity.

The Process Of Installing A Home EV Charger

Installing a home EV charger is a straightforward process that typically takes a few hours. First, you’ll need to choose a certified installer who will assess your home’s electrical system to ensure it can support the charger. During the installation, the engineer will install the charger, connect it to your home’s electricity supply, and test it to make sure it’s working correctly. They will also provide a demonstration on how to use the charger and answer any questions you may have. Furthermore installing an EV charger at your home can have a positive effect on your homes’ energy rating Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

How to Read And Monitor Your EV Charger

Understanding how to read and monitor your EV charger is crucial for maximizing efficiency. Most modern chargers come with an accompanying app (this functionality can be integrated into your Octopus Energy app) that displays your charging status, energy usage, and costs. This allows you to see how much energy your car is using, how long it will take to charge, and how much it’s costing you. By regularly monitoring your charger, you can make adjustments to your charging habits to save even more money.

Making Money With Your Home EV Charger

Did you know that you can make money by sharing your home EV charger with others? In the UK, platforms like Co Charger [External Link] allow you to rent out your charger to other EV owners when you’re not using it. This not only helps other drivers who may not have access to a home charger but also provides you with a steady income stream. It’s a simple way to offset the cost of your charger and contribute to the growing EV community.

The Future of Home EV Charging

The future of home EV charging is looking bright, with advancements in smart technology such as smart meters and renewable energy integration. As the UK continues to transition towards a greener future, home EV chargers will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and supporting the adoption of electric vehicles. Whether it’s through more intelligent energy tariffs, greater use of renewable energy, or innovative charging solutions, the possibilities are endless.

If you are interested in hearing more about Octopus Energy’s EV Charging offerings, contact Octopus Energy today.

*The information in this page is correct as of August 2024.