Is it better to have a tethered or untethered EV charger?
Untethered is about flexibility. You can charge anything with the right cable, and if your driveway layout means a second or third car won’t reach then you can get a longer cable. Tethered probably better for most people though, particularly if you’ll charge regularly (PHEVs or higher mileage drivers). Untethered chargers are initially cheaper, but you may need to purchase a charging cable separately, potentially minimising the price difference. However, the zappi is the same price regardless of being tethered or untethered making it the perfect solution for both uses.Whilst tethered units tend to be more convenient for home charging, untethered units provide much more flexibility, and their detachable cables are not just limited to being used at home. Ultimately, the charger that will suit you best depends on your own needs and how you intend to use it.
Are 3 pin EV chargers safe?
Using a 3-pin charger is safe as an overnight top-up in an emergency, with a modern, properly wired socket, good ventilation and avoiding extension cables. However, if you’re using an ev daily and need regular, reliable charging it’s time to upgrade to a dedicated ev home charger. Additionally, slow charging is often done overnight at home during off-peak electricity hours, which can reduce your energy costs compared to using fast chargers during peak times. In essence, slow charging not only protects your battery but also your wallet, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious ev owners.A lot of new EV owners feel uneasy about leaving the car plugged in overnight. Yes, you can safely leave your electric car charging overnight. The system will automatically stop charging once it’s full. Leaving an EV plugged in overnight1 is actually what most people do.Although it’s certainly safe to charge your EV at night, and it can be the most economical option, it’s certainly not best to make a habit out of charging it every night unless you need to do so.A rapid charger is rated at 50kw and can zap your battery with 80% charge in just 40 minutes, but homes cannot facilitate a rapid charger due to the amount of power they require. The vast majority of EV Rapid Chargers are located at service stations, rest stops and other public locations.A 7kW charger is the most practical choice for most UK homes, providing full overnight charging without requiring electrical upgrades. W chargers are increasingly outdated, taking 18-20 hours to fully charge modern EVs, while 22kW chargers require expensive three-phase power most homes don’t have.
Is a 6mm cable ok for an EV charger?
For most home ev chargers, 6mm² or 10mm² armoured cable is commonly used. The best size depends on the length of the run and the charger’s power rating. Short runs for a 7kw charger usually need 6mm² swa, but longer distances may require 10mm² to keep voltage drop within safe limits. It provides enough length for standard charging setups (whether that be when using a home ev charger or at a destination charging point) without the extra bulk of longer cables, making it easier to handle, store, and transport in your vehicle.