How to Choose the Right EV Charger for Your Home or Business

Is your EV charger meeting your needs? Many homeowners and businesses invest in charging points only to realise they’ve picked the wrong type. Unfortunately, this tends to result in longer charge times, higher electricity bills, or the need for costly upgrades later. Ouch.

But the problem isn’t a lack of EV chargers; it’s a lack of guidance on choosing the right one. Different chargers offer different speeds, energy efficiency levels, and smart features. Without expert advice, you could end up with an expensive charger that’s either too slow or overpowered for your needs.

At Mission Road Electrical, we are NICEIC-accredited and OZEV-approved EV charger installers. Homeowners, businesses, and landlords across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire trust our team. We specialise in installing custom EV charging solutions for homes, workplaces, and businesses of all sizes. This guide will help you choose the best charger. It covers home versus business charging, charger types, and installation. It also discusses government grants and common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to make the right choice.

Read on to see which choice will save you money, charge your vehicle efficiently, and future-proof your property.

Why Choosing the Right EV Charger Matters

Selecting the correct EV charger for your property is vital. It doesn’t just save you money; it uses energy efficiently and future-proofs your investment. Your ideal charger will depend on a few factors. For starters, how often you drive, your property’s electrical capacity, and whether you need to charge one or multiple vehicles. A charger that lacks compatibility with your energy setup can result in several issues. For example, you might face longer charging times, higher electricity costs, and limits on upgrading to newer EV models.

Smart chargers that integrate with renewable energy sources benefit homeowners the most. These typically experience off-peak pricing, which reduces long-term costs for homeowners. Alternatively, businesses should invest in scalable charging infrastructure that supports multiple users. This option will maximise efficiency while offering potential revenue streams. With professional installation, your EV charger will perform well and cost less now and in the future.

Key Benefits of Choosing the Right EV Charger

• Lower Electricity Bills: Smart chargers allow off-peak charging, which reduces energy costs over time. According to Ofgem, UK households can save a great deal on time-of-use tariffs by charging EVs overnight.
• Increased Property Value: Properties with dedicated EV chargers are more attractive to buyers and tenants, and demand for them is skyrocketing in the UK.
• Business Incentives: Installing commercial chargers can attract customers and boost employee satisfaction. It may also generate revenue from charge-point payments.
• Reduced Charging Time: The proper charger ensures your EV is ready when needed, rather than taking all night or longer to charge fully.

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers?

Not all EV chargers are created equal. They vary in speed, power requirements, and suitability for different applications. Understanding these differences is crucial in making an informed decision.

Level 1 Chargers (Slowest, but Minimal Installation Costs)

• Power Output: Typically 3kW, meaning a full charge can take up to 24 hours.
• Best For: Occasional EV users or as a backup charging option in emergencies.
• Installation Needs: No special wiring is required, but prolonged use can overload home circuits and cause inefficiencies.
• Drawback: Not practical for daily EV drivers due to long charging times.

Level 2 Chargers (Ideal for Homes & Businesses)

• Power Output: Ranges from 7kW to 22kW, capable of charging an EV in 4-8 hours.
• Best For: Homeowners who rely on their EV daily and businesses looking to provide convenient workplace charging.
• Smart Features: Many models include app control, scheduled charging, and energy tracking to optimise costs.
• Installation Needs: Requires a dedicated electrical circuit and professional installation.

DC Fast Chargers (For High-Traffic Business Use)

• Power Output: Between 50kW and 350kW, making them the fastest charging option.
• Best For: Service stations, commercial fleets, and businesses that need rapid charging capabilities.
• Drawback: High installation and running costs, making them unsuitable for most residential properties.

Home vs. Business EV Chargers: What’s the Difference?

Home and business EV chargers serve different purposes and require unique considerations. Understanding these differences ensures you choose a system that meets your needs.

What to Consider for Home Charging

Homeowners must evaluate their property’s electrical capacity, charger placement, and long-term sustainability. For example, a homeowner in Dorset needed an innovative charging solution integrated with solar panels. Mission Road Electrical installed a Zappi smart charger, which enabled efficient solar-powered charging. Click here to read all about Jessica’s EV charger installation.

Key considerations for domestic charging:

• Electrical Supply: Older homes may require an upgraded circuit to support a 7kW or 22kW charger.
• Smart Features: Homeowners can schedule charging during off-peak hours to reduce electricity bills.
• Government Grants: The EV Chargepoint Grant offers financial incentives for landlords, renters and flat owners, and home installations with on-street parking.

What to Consider for Business Charging

Commercial EV chargers require a strategic approach. Consider your employee’s needs, public access, and potential revenue streams. For example, a Hampshire-based business needed to replace outdated EV chargers for employees. Mission Road Electrical upgraded its infrastructure, integrating smart features for improved energy management. Read all about EURAC Poole’s new EV chargers in their office car park.

Key considerations for business charging:

• Usage Type: Will chargers be for employees only or open to public use?
• Scalability: Choosing a modular system allows for future expansion as demand increases.
• Tax Benefits: The Workplace Charging Scheme covers up to 75% of installation costs.

Future-Proof Your Property with a Smart EV Charger

Choosing the right EV charger isn’t just about convenience. It’s about making a smart, long-term investment in your home or business. With the right system in place, you can cut energy costs, improve charging efficiency, and prepare for the future of electric transport. But getting it right requires professional expertise.

At Mission Road Electrical, we install custom EV chargers across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. If you’re a homeowner wanting an affordable smart charger or a business needing scalable workplace charging, get in touch. We handle the entire process–from expert site surveys and installations to ongoing maintenance and support. As NICEIC-accredited and OZEV-approved installers, we ensure your charger is safe, compliant, and built to last. Don’t wait to upgrade your property–start saving on charging costs today. Our team is here to help you select and install the perfect EV charger.

Call us now on 01202 283643 or get in touch for a free consultation.