‘What type of EV charger should I get?’ This is a very common question that we often get asked at visits. As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction, one of the most important decisions for prospective EV owners is choosing the right EV charger for their home. With a variety of charging options available, selecting the perfect charger can seem daunting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of EV chargers available and provide recommendations for a 7kW charger, helping you make an informed decision that both meets your needs and enhances your electric driving experience.
Understanding EV Charger Types
Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s first understand the different types of EV chargers available:
- Level 1 Chargers: These chargers are typically included with the purchase of an electric vehicle and plug into a standard 3-pin household socket. While convenient for occasional use or emergencies, Level 1 chargers are often extremely slow and not best suited for those who use their EV daily.
- Level 2 Chargers: Offering faster charging speeds, Level 2 chargers require a dedicated charging unit installed at your home. These chargers can deliver anywhere from 3.7kW to 22kW of power, depending on the model and your home’s electrical capacity.
- Level 3 Chargers (DC Fast Chargers): Commonly found at public charging stations, Level 3 chargers provide rapid charging capabilities, delivering high-voltage direct current (DC) directly to your vehicle’s battery. While incredibly fast, Level 3 chargers are more expensive to install and are typically not suitable for home use.
Recommendations for a 7kW Charger
For most homeowners, a Level 2 charger with a power output of 7kW is an excellent choice for daily charging needs. Here are some recommendations for selecting a 7kW EV charger:
- Smart Charging Features: Look for a charger with smart charging capabilities, allowing you to schedule charging times, monitor energy usage, and take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. Smart chargers can also integrate with home energy management systems and renewable energy sources, helping you maximise energy efficiency.
- Built-in Safety Features: Safety is paramount when it comes to EV charging. Choose a charger with built-in safety features such as overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, and temperature monitoring to ensure safe and reliable charging at all times.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the charger is compatible with your electric vehicle’s charging port. Most EVs use a Type 2 charging connector for Level 2 charging, but it’s essential to double-check compatibility to avoid compatibility issues.
- Ease of Installation: Opt for a charger that is easy to install and compatible with your home’s electrical system. Consider factors such as cable length, mounting options, and the availability of professional installation services to streamline the installation process.
- Warranty and Support: Choose a charger from a reputable manufacturer with a solid warranty and excellent customer support. A reliable warranty provides peace of mind and ensures that you’re covered in case of any issues or malfunctions.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for chargers that are Energy Saving Trust-certified or ENERGY STAR-rated, indicating that they meet strict energy efficiency standards. Energy-efficient chargers not only help reduce your carbon footprint but also save you money on electricity bills over time.
- Zappi myenergi: we would always recommend installing a Zappi EV charger at your home. They are, in our opinion, the best in the business. What’s more, they seamlessly integrate with our solar energy systems.
Conclusion
We hope that we have answered your question of ‘what type of EV charger should I get?’ Choosing the right EV charger is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your electric driving experience. By opting for a 7kW Level 2 charger, you can enjoy convenient, reliable, and cost-effective charging at home. Whether you’re a current EV owner or considering making the switch to electric driving, investing in the right EV charger is a smart move that enhances your driving experience and contributes to a cleaner, greener future. Get in touch with us today!
