🔌 So, You’ve Bought an EV — Now Comes the Charger

You’ve taken the leap. You’re driving an electric vehicle, enjoying the silence and skipping petrol stations. But when it comes time to install a home charger… things get complicated, fast.

Suddenly, you’re faced with unfamiliar terms:
Type 1 vs Type 2, tethered vs untethered, OZEV grants, load balancing, single-phase vs 3-phase, smart features, and — perhaps most unexpectedly — a wide range in pricing and performance.

Let’s break it down.

⚠️ The Hidden Traps People Don't Talk About

1. Charger Compatibility Isn’t Always Universal

Not all EVs are created equal — and not all chargers work seamlessly across different makes and models.
Trap: You might install a charger that technically works, but not at the optimal speed or efficiency for your car.

✅ Flare Tip: We assess your EV type, cable spec, and future vehicle plans before recommending a charger.

2. Tethered or Untethered? That “Small Detail” Matters

Tethered = built-in cable
Untethered = bring your own cable
Tethered is often neater and quicker — but less flexible if your next EV uses a different plug type.

💡 Think long term. If you’re planning to upgrade cars often or install at a shared property, untethered may be safer.

3. Smart Features Are Not Just Fancy Extras

Some chargers offer timed charging, solar integration, remote scheduling, or even tariff syncing. These aren’t gimmicks — they can dramatically reduce your bills.

⚡ Smart charging systems let you plug in now, and charge later — when energy is cleanest and cheapest.

4. Installation Isn’t One-Price-Fits-All

A “£899 install” might sound appealing — until the installer charges £400 extra for the cable run or consumer unit upgrade. Surprise extras are common.

👷 We give you upfront pricing based on real site conditions — not vague estimates.

💸 The Real Cost of EV Charging

Here's what you should budget for a quality home EV charger install in the UK:

ItemEstimated RangeOZEV-approved charger unit£500–£800Standard installation£350–£600Consumer unit upgrade£200–£500 (if needed)Smart feature setupIncluded with FlareTotal Estimate£850–£1,300

✅ What You Actually Want:

• The right charger for your current and future EV

• A clean install with no cables trailing across your driveway

• Smart features that reduce your charging costs

• Local, trusted support if anything goes wrong

🔧 Let Flare Make It Easy

At Flare Electrical, we design EV charging solutions around your car, your energy tariff, and your future plans. Whether you’re pairing with solar, installing at home, or upgrading a fleet — we’ll get you charged right, first time.

👉 [Book a Free EV Charging Survey]
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