Which EV Charger is Best?

Which EV Charger is Best?

By Haydon the Electrician | Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd.

If you're thinking about installing an EV charger at home, you’re not alone. With more and more people choosing to drive electric vehicles (EVs), having a charger at home is not only convenient — it can also save you time and money.

With so many brands and models out there, it can be hard to know which EV charger is best for you. In this guide, I’ll do my best to break down the key things to look for, the differences between charger types, and help you choose the right one for your home.

Whether you're after a simple plug-in solution or something with smart features, we've got you covered — and if you're looking for an electrician in Bath or an electrician in Chippenham, we can help with supply and installation too.

What to Look for in a Home EV Charger

Not all EV chargers are created equal. When deciding which one is best for you, think about:

Charging speed

Most home chargers are either 7kW or 22kW. For the average home, a 7kW charger is ideal — it can fully charge most cars overnight. A 22kW charger requires a three-phase electricity supply, which many homes don’t have, in fact, I've been an electrician in Bath for many years now and I can't ever remember seeing a home with 3 phase electricity!

Smart features

Some EV Chargers allow you to schedule charging, track energy usage, or charge when electricity is cheaper (like overnight on off-peak tariffs). These features can save you money over time.

Tethered or untethered

This is a personal preference (I'll explain the difference below). Some people prefer the convenience of a built-in cable; others prefer a neater look. Personally, I'd much rather have a tethered charger.

App control and updates

Many EV chargers now come with their own apps, letting you control charging from your phone, check history, or update the software over time.

Size and appearance

If the charger is going on the front of your house, you might want something that looks neat and modern. Several brands offer sleek designs in a range of colours and finishes.

What Do You Mean by 'Tethered' and 'Untethered' Cables?

This comes up a lot when people are choosing a charger.

A tethered charger has a built-in charging cable. You simply pull it off the unit and plug it into your car — It's almost like using a petrol pump.

An untethered charger has a socket, and you plug in your own cable (the one that often comes with your EV). It looks neater on the wall because there's less 'stuff' and gives you more flexibility, but you have to coil and store the cable each time.

If you want ease of use, go for tethered. If you prefer a cleaner look or plan to charge different cars with different plugs, untethered is the way to go.

What Size Cable Do I Need for an EV Charger?

This is information you'll almost never need as an end user so it's often best leaving this cable design to the professionals. For what it's worth, usually we would us a 6mm EV Ultra cable which is specifically designed for EV chargers. 

Best Home EV Chargers

Here are some of the most popular and reliable models we often recommend and install:

Zappi by MyEnergi

A British-made charger packed with features. It works with solar panels, has smart charging modes, and both tethered and untethered versions. Ideal if you want to future-proof your home. Personally this is my second favourite charger to install. I'm not a fan of how they look. 

Hypervolt

Sleek, stylish, and full of smart features. Great app control, voice command compatibility, and multiple colour choices. One of the best options for modern homes. This is by far my favourite charger to install. They're easy to install and I personally think they look fantastic!

Ohme Home Pro

Compact and straightforward. Easy to use with a clear screen and great off-peak charging control. Good value for those on smart tariffs.
 

FAQs – EV Chargers

How long does it take to install a home EV charger?

Most installations are completed in half a day, but it depends on the cable route and any upgrades needed to your fuse board or earthing system.

Do I need permission to install an EV charger?

It depends on your current electrical set-up but your electrician can fill out a form online to see if they can just install and notify or whether or not they need prior permission. 

Can I charge my EV from a normal plug socket?

You can, but it’s very slow and not recommended for regular use. A dedicated EV charger is much safer and faster. If you are going to use a 'granny charger' then it's advised having your existing sockets replaced with a EV dedicated 13a socket. 

FAQs About Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd and EV Chargers

Do you install EV chargers in Bath and Chippenham?

Yes — we provide EV charger installation for homeowners in Bath, Chippenham, and surrounding areas. All work is carried out by qualified electricians and certified to current standards.

Do you supply the charger too?

We can supply and fit most leading brands. Or, if you’ve already purchased a charger, we’re happy to install it for you.

Will I get a certificate?

Absolutely. Every EV charger we install comes with the proper electrical installation certificate for your records. You'd also get a building control compliance certificate and a copy of the notification sent to the DNO.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right EV charger for your home doesn’t need to be confusing. Once you understand the basics — like power rating, tethered vs untethered, and smart features — it’s easier to make the right decision for your lifestyle.

If you're ready to install an EV charger...

📞 Contact Haydon at Watt & Co. Electrical Ltd  on 01249 698 255 or fill out the contact form for expert advice, reliable installation, and friendly service from a trusted electrician in Bath or Chippenham.