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Why Choose EV Smart Chargers for Your Home?
Thinking about installing a home EV charger? Learn why smart EV chargers are the best choice for convenience, cost savings, and energy efficiency.
So you want to install a home electric vehicle (EV) charger. Good for you – it’ll make your EV life easier, and could add value to your home, too. But have you considered what kind of charger you’d like?
We’d recommend you go for a smart EV charger. These offer advanced features that go far beyond basic plug-and-go models, providing better control, improved energy efficiency, and the potential for significant cost savings.
In this guide, we’ll explain what smart EV chargers are, look at their advantages, and help you choose the right one for your home.
What is an EV Smart Charger?
A smart EV charger is an internet-connected charging device that lets you manage when and how your electric car charges. Unlike standard chargers that begin charging the car’s battery as soon as they’re plugged in, smart chargers let you schedule charging and also allow remote operation and energy tracking.
In addition, they can integrate with home energy systems, such as solar panels. Such features are generally accessed through a mobile app or on a web dashboard on your computer.
Key Benefits of EV Smart Chargers
The benefits of a smart charger for your electric car are many:
1: Smart charging schedules means lower costs
Smart chargers let you set charging times to align with off-peak electricity rates, which can save you a lot on your energy bill, especially if you’re on an economy or time-of-use tariff. Several energy companies (such as our partners at E.ON Next) now have specific tariffs for EV owners.
2: Faster, more efficient charging
Smart chargers will usually deliver 7kW or 22kW, depending on your electrical system at home. The result? A full charge in a matter of hours.
3: Solar panel integration
Got solar panels on your roof? Then smart chargers can prioritise charging using any surplus solar energy, which further lowers your costs.
4: Energy use monitoring
A smart charger will let you track how much electricity your car is using and what it’s costing you. It can even show you CO2 savings, all through the accompanying app or dashboard.
5: Load balancing (for safety)
Smart chargers can adjust their power output to avoid overloading your home’s electrical system, which is especially useful if you’re running other high energy appliances like washing machines, ovens or air conditioning systems.
6: Remote access and control
Start, stop, or delay charging remotely from your phone. This is ideal if you need to change plans on the go or make sure your car is ready for your morning commute.
7: Future-proofing
Many smart chargers off regular software updates, smart-home compatibility with the likes of Alexa and Google Assistant, and vehicle-specific features like optimised charging profiles and integration with in-car apps or systems.
How to Choose the Right Smart Charger
When choosing a smart EV charger, keep the following in mind:
- Power output: Most UK homes use a 7kW charger. If you have a three-phase supply, you may be able to install a 22kW charger for faster refills.
- Connectivity: Go for a charger equipped with Wi-Fi, ethernet or 4G connectivity to help with remote management. Many units have multiple options so that, for example, if your home internet goes down you can use the 4G capability to still connect to your charger.
- Vehicle compatibility: Make sure the charger matches your EV’s plug type and onboard charging capability.
- Smart features: Look for chargers that offer scheduling, solar compatibility (if relevant), load management, and app control.
- Installation costs: Factor in both the cost of the charger itself and getting it fitted. Government grants, like the EV Chargepoint Grant, can offset costs for those eligible.
- Build quality and warranty: Go for models that are backed by long-term warranties – ideally at least three years.
Installation & Setup Tips
When planning and installing your EV charger, here are some pointers to remember:
- Use an OZEV-approved installer: Make sure your installer is approved by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, both for safety and to ensure eligibility for any suitable government incentives.
- Plan your charger’s location: Choose a spot protected from the weather and easily accessible from when you usually park.
- Ensure a strong Wi-Fi/data signal: Weak connections can affect app functions and remote control of your charger.
- Test everything post-installation: Check the charger’s app, its schedule settings and the charger performance before its first full use. Just in case.
Further questions about charging an EV at home or in public?
Phone our dedicated EV team now on 0118 3048 688. Or email us at enquiries@selectcarleasing.co.uk.
For more information on leasing an EV, click one of our other guides below:
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