As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity, installing a charger at home has become an essential part of owning an EV. By having a charger installed at home, you can enjoy a seamless and efficient charging experience every time you plug in. However, one key decision that EV owners face is whether to opt for a tethered or untethered EV charger.
At Greentech, we understand that every EV owner has specific requirements for EV charging, and we offer both tethered and untethered EV chargers for installation. To help you decide which option is the right solution, this post breaks down the differences between tethered and untethered chargers. We’ll also look at the different power ratings available for EV chargers and how they can impact charging times and the overall experience.
What are Tethered & Untethered EV Chargers?
When charging an electric vehicle at home, there are two main types of EV chargers; tethered and untethered. Tethered chargers come with a cable permanently attached to the unit, which means you don’t need to carry your own charging cable as it includes a built-in one that you plug directly into your vehicle. These chargers are pre-configured with a specific connector type, which matches the majority of modern electric vehicles. The cable is typically stored by wrapping it around the charger when dormant, keeping it secure and ready for the next charge.
Untethered chargers, on the other hand, do not include a fixed cable. Instead, you need to use your vehicle’s charging cable to connect the charger to your car. This design offers greater flexibility, as you can switch between different types of charging cables if you have multiple vehicles with varying connectors.
Both tethered and untethered EV chargers serve the same essential purpose: providing a reliable way to charge an electric vehicle at home. However, the best option for you depends on your unique circumstances and preferences. Below, we explore key factors to help you decide which type of EV charger is right based on your circumstances.
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How Many EVs Do You Own?
If you own a single electric vehicle, a tethered charger may be the more practical choice. With its permanently attached cable, it’s always ready to plug directly into your car, making charging simple and straightforward. However, for households with multiple EVs or plans to add more in the future, an untethered charger could offer greater flexibility. Untethered chargers allow you to switch between different charging cables, accommodating various connector types that different EV models may require. This adaptability ensures your charging setup is future-proof and versatile for multiple vehicles.
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Convenience
When it comes to ease of use, tethered chargers are often favoured for their plug-and-go functionality. The cable is permanently attached and neatly stored on the unit, eliminating the need to retrieve and attach your own charging cable. This can save time and effort, particularly if you’re charging an EV frequently. On the other hand, untethered chargers require you to connect your vehicle’s charging cable each time, which may be less convenient but allows for greater control over how and where you use your cables.
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Appearance of your Charger
For some EV owners, the appearance of the charger is an important consideration. Untethered chargers have a clean, minimalist design, as there’s no cable permanently attached. This can be especially appealing if you want a simple charging setup or if the unit is in a visible area, such as a driveway or business parking area. While tethered chargers prioritise functionality, the cable can create a slightly busier look when compared to the streamlined design of an untethered charger.
Understanding Power Ratings for EV Chargers
Power ratings are also important to consider as they determine how quickly an electric vehicle can charge. The higher the power rating, the faster the charger can replenish the car’s battery. However, the charger’s power output must align with the vehicle’s maximum charging capacity and your home’s electrical system to ensure efficiency and safety. Below are the most common power ratings for EV chargers and how they differ:
3.6kW: A 3.6kW charger is the slowest option but can still be ideal for certain situations. This type of charger is suitable for overnight charging, where speed isn’t a priority. It works well for lower usage needs, such as if you drive short distances daily and don’t deplete your battery significantly. While slower, a 3.6kW charger is often more cost-effective to install and may be sufficient for older EV models with smaller battery capacities.
7kW: A 7kW charger is the most common choice for residential homes and provides a good balance between speed and compatibility. It charges an EV about three times faster than a standard 3-pin plug, making it ideal for most everyday driving needs. For many EV owners, this power rating offers the convenience of a faster recharge without requiring significant upgrades to the home’s electrical system.
22kW: A 22kW charger offers the fastest charging speeds but typically requires a three-phase power supply, which is less common in residential properties. This option is better suited for businesses or homes that already have access to three-phase electricity. It’s ideal for high-usage needs or for charging vehicles with larger battery capacities in shorter timeframes.
Choosing the Right Power Rating
Consider your vehicle’s maximum charging capacity and your home’s electrical infrastructure. Most homeowners find that a 7kW charger strikes the perfect balance between speed and cost, but it’s always best to consult a professional installer, such as GreenTech, to ensure compatibility with your setup. At GreenTech, we offer all types of power rating EV chargers, including 3.6kW, 7kW, and 22kW, to meet the needs of your home and vehicle requirements.
Reliable EV Charger Installation with GreenTech
At GreenTech, we are renewable energy experts, providing a range of sustainable energy solutions; including EV chargers, domestic and commercial solar panels, and battery storage systems. We aim to work together to help create a greener environment through a range of renewable energy solutions. Home-based EV chargers provide a convenient way to charge a vehicle from the comfort of your home.
As a qualified and certified installer, and with the backing of government grants, you can rest assured that your EV charging point will be installed professionally, efficiently, and at an affordable price. We serve a wide range of areas across the South East of England, including Essex, bringing reliable EV charging solutions to both domestic and commercial clients.
To power your journey with GreenTech through EV charger installations in Essex, get in touch with us today. Simply fill out our online contact form, and we’ll get back to you shortly, or give us a call on 01375 506 125 or 07879 772 463 to find out more.