Your guide to choosing and installing a home EV charger.
Ready to race ahead with a brand new EV home charger? Whether you own an electric vehicle (EV) or are thinking of buying one, there are lots of reasons an EV charger is a great idea for your home. But slow down! Before you buy, find out how to choose the right EV charger for your needs. Our handy guide gives you useful information to help you make an informed decision, from installation and costs to the tethered vs untethered question.
What to consider before buying an EV charger.
Before you get started, there are few important points to consider when it comes to specific charger features. These will act as a roadmap, ensuring your chosen home EV charger and its installation are suitable for your property and lifestyle.
Strong Wi-Fi signal.
Many modern smart chargers rely on a stable internet connection for their advanced features. Wherever you intend to install the charger, ensure your signal’s strong.
Location of your charge point.
There can be no more than two walls and/or 10m distance between your electricity meter and the new EV charging point. Your EV charger will also need to be mounted on a brick or plaster wall.
Space to park at home.
To use a home EV charger, you'll need private off road parking close to your house, such as a driveway or garage. Unfortunately, we can’t install chargers for use with on-road parking.
Charger compatibility.
Our chargers use type 2 sockets (also called EV charging connectors or plugs). Most vehicles manufactured in Europe come with a Type 2 charging cable. If you haven’t got one, speak to the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Get up to £350 off your home EV charger installation.
You could be eligible for the UK Government’s EV Chargepoint Grant that covers up to 75% of the installation cost, or a maximum of £350, whichever is lower. This fantastic incentive is designed to help renters and people living in flats with dedicated off-street parking. We'll let you know if you may be eligible† when you get a quote from us.
EV charger features and specifications.
Once you’ve assessed your home’s readiness, you can start exploring the various features and specifications that differentiate EV chargers. Understanding these will help you pick the right EV charger for your needs.
Tethered vs. untethered chargers.
One of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to go tethered or untethered, and by that, we mean your charging point.
Tethered chargers.
Tethered chargers are also called ‘corded’, and have a cable permanently attached to the charging unit.
Pros: + The charging cable is included in the price of your home EV charger. + The cable is permanently attached and so unlikely to be lost or stolen. + Your charger is always set up and ready to use.
Cons: - Your options for cable length and socket type are limited to what's integrated with the charge – you won’t be able to choose.
Untethered chargers.
Untethered chargers, aka’ cordless’, don't include a cable, meaning that you can use your own separate charging cable.
Pros: + You can choose the length and socket type of your charging cable. + If your cable is damaged it can be easily replaced. + You can bring your cable when you travel to charge up out and about.
Cons: - The charging cable is not included in the cost of your charging point.
Smart charging and connectivity.
As we mentioned, strong Wi-Fi connectivity for smart features is a must. Smart chargers with Wi-Fi connectivity have lots of benefits that enhance your charging experience and help you manage your energy usage. These include:
Remote control:
Start, stop, or pause charging from your smartphone.
Scheduling:
Set your charger to operate during specific times, ideal for utilising off peak electricity tariffs.
Energy monitoring:
Track your charging history and electricity consumption, giving you greater control over your energy costs.
If you purchase an EV charger from us, you’ll get access to the E.ON Home app, giving you full control of your EV charger, from scheduling to tracking your energy use to stay on top of your spendings.
Location and installation requirements.
Working out the ideal installation location for the installation is key for your home EV charger, which comes with a few key considerations.
Consider the proximity to your fuse box, which often impacts the ease and cost of the installation. Also decide whether you want your EV charging indoors or outdoors. Most home chargers are designed for outdoor use, but it’s important to confirm your specific charger’s suitability. As previously highlighted, private off road parking is a basic requirement too.
And let’s also not forget access. You’ll need to ensure there’s clear access for the installers and that the location is structurally sound.
Charger compatibility.
Then, there's charger compatibility. Across the UK and Europe, Type 2 plug sockets are generally the standard for EV charging. At E.ON Next, we currently only use Type 2 sockets, making them broadly compatible with most European vehicles. Always check your vehicle's port type before going ahead.
Warranties and guarantees.
As a rule of thumb, always look for robust guarantees and warranties for both the charger unit and the installation workmanship. This will give you peace of mind and protection for your investment. If you choose to book your installation through us, you’ll get a 3 year workmanship warranty.
Planning permission.
Good news! From 29 May 2025, thanks to the UK government, rules around EV charger installation became simpler. For most homeowners, as long as you have off street parking, planning permission is no longer needed.
However, there are some exceptions. You may still need consent for properties in conservation areas or listed buildings, and if you live in a leasehold property (check your lease terms and conditions). For on street charging solutions, local authority permission is still a must. Regardless, all installations must adhere to Building Regulations and be completed by a qualified electrician.
Connecting your EV charger to your solar panels.
Did you know it's possible to use your solar panels to top up your EV? Charging your EV with solar power could help to lower your electricity bills and your carbon footprint. Connecting your EV charger to your solar panel system means ensuring both systems can work together efficiently, which could involve a software setup or rewiring. The exact steps are dependent on the models of your solar inverter, battery (if you have one), and EV charger. Learn more about powering your EV charger with solar panels and how to get started.
Save more with a suitable EV tariff.
Choosing the right energy tariff can help maximise your savings from EV home charging. Let’s find out how.
Off peak home charging.
This is where the concept of off peak charging comes in. Many energy providers offer specific EV tariffs designed to give you lower priced electricity during off peak hours, which is typically overnight. As a result, if you charge your EV during these times, it could save you money.
Explore our tariffs.
We offer a range of home EV chargers, including a dedicated EV tariff called Next Drive, which features cheaper charging when you do it overnight.1 We’ll also include a free 1 year subscription to Zoom EV, a useful online platform that gives you access to EV benefits and discounts on anything from public charging to parking.2
Your next steps.
Understanding what to expect during the installation process for your EV charger can help you prepare. It's important to use certified installers to ensure a safe, high quality installation that’s compliant with all regulations, giving you confidence in your home EV charger.
Get your EV charger installed by us.
You can book an EV charger installation with us today. Your quote includes both the EV charger and professional installation from E.ON.
Choose your charger.
Pick the right electric vehicle charger for your needs.
Quick quote.
We'll need a few details about your home and where you'd like your charger, then give you a quote straight away.
Book your free video survey.
Our surveyor will video call to check where you'd like your charger and send you a personalised quote.
Get it installed.
Our professional engineers will have you up and running in no time.
Save £50 on your EV charger installation.
If you’re an E.ON Next customer, you can enjoy an exclusive discount when booking an electric vehicle charger installation for your home. Your quote includes the home charging point and free professional installation. Get a quote and enjoy £50 off today.
Your FAQs about EV chargers.
How long does it take to charge an EV at home?
Can I use any charger with any EV?
What is the difference between a 7kW and 22kW charger?
Do I need planning permission to install an EV charger?
How much does it cost to install an EV charger?
1 Next Drive Fixed v10 offers fixed priced overnight EV charging 7.5p/kWh between 12am and 6am versus Next Flex standard variable tariff at 25.73p/kWh (national average and will vary by region). Information correct as of 1 August 2025. Based on all dedicated “like-for-like” EV market tariffs from suppliers excluding tariffs with bundled products or add-ons. Based on dual fuel customers, paying by Direct Debit. Terms and conditions apply.
2 As an E.ON Next customer, you could get a one year’s subscription to Zoom EV. By registering you give consent for your details to be shared with Zoom EV and for Zoom EV to contact you regarding this offer. Zoom EV is a third party vendor and will not share your information with other third parties.