As electric vehicle (EV) adoption increases, many homeowners consider installing charging stations. One of the fastest options available is the 22kW EV charger, which promises quicker charging times and added convenience for those with multiple EVs. But is a 22kW charger worth installing at a residential property, or would a 7kW charger be sufficient? Let’s explore the benefits, costs, and whether it makes sense for most homeowners.
Understanding Home EV Charging Options
Before diving into 22kW chargers, it’s important to understand the various charging options available for residential properties. Home EV charging typically offers three main speeds, based on the power supply available:
- 2.3kW (Standard Socket): A slow charging option often seen in residential properties, providing around 15 km of range per hour.
- 7kW Chargers (Single Phase Power Supply): The most common home EV charger, offering around 50 km of range per hour.
- 22kW Chargers (Three-Phase Power Supply): A fast charging solution, offering up to 150 km of range per hour, but requiring a three-phase electricity supply.
Do You Have the Right Power Supply?
Not all homes are equipped to handle a 22kW charger. Most residential properties in the UK operate on a single-phase power supply, which can only support up to 7kW chargers. To take full advantage of a 22kW charger, you’ll need to upgrade to a three-phase supply.
This upgrade isn’t cheap, often costing between $3,000 and $15,000, depending on the complexity of the work required. It’s also important to note that many EVs, such as the Tesla Model 3, won’t charge any faster on a 22kW charger because their onboard chargers limit the charging speed to around 11kW, even with a higher power supply. So, before you invest, ensure your car can actually use the faster charging speed.
When Does a 22kW Charger Make Sense?
If you have multiple EVs at home or if you drive long distances daily, having a 22kW charger can offer significant advantages. It allows faster charging for several vehicles, making it easier to share a single charger in a multi-EV household. This could be especially useful if you have limited time to charge all the vehicles at home.
A 22kW home charger could also benefit homeowners who already have a three-phase power supply, such as those who live in homes converted from commercial properties or new builds with multiple bedrooms. These homes are more likely to have the infrastructure to support a faster charging option without costly upgrades.
Charging Speed and Car Compatibility:
| Electric Vehicle Model | Max AC Charging Speed |
|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | 11 kW |
| BMW i3 | 22 kW |
| Renault Zoe R135 | 22 kW |
| Nissan Leaf (Gen 1) | 6.6 kW |
Cost Considerations for Installing 22kW Chargers
The cost of installing a 22kW charger is higher than installing a standard 7kW charger. In addition to the higher cost of the unit itself, the installation can be more complex and time-consuming, especially if your home requires an upgrade to a three-phase power supply. Expect to pay around $700 to $900 more for installation compared to a 7kW charger. Additionally, the cost of electricity usage will increase if you’re regularly charging multiple EVs at the faster rate.
However, if your home already operates on a three-phase supply, the installation process will be more straightforward and cost-effective, making the 22kW charger a more viable option. The key is to weigh the installation and upgrade costs against your household’s charging needs.
Is Fast Charging Always Necessary?
For most EV drivers, the answer is no. Most EV owners charge their cars overnight, meaning the time savings of using a faster charger won’t be noticeable. For example, if you’re sleeping for 8 hours, your car will be fully charged in the morning whether you’re using a 7kW or 22kW charger.
The real benefit of fast charging comes into play if you have multiple EVs or if you frequently need to charge your car quickly during the day. In these cases, the 22kW charger can be a time-saver, allowing for more flexibility in how and when you charge your vehicles.
Who Should Consider Upgrading to a 22kW Charger?
The decision to install a 22kW charger at home depends on several factors, including:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| The Number of EVs at Home | A faster charger could make life more convenient if you have more than one EV and regularly need to charge both. |
| Your Home’s Power Supply | If your home already operates on a three-phase electricity supply, upgrading to a 22kW charger is easier and less costly. |
| Charging Needs | If you typically charge overnight and have plenty of time to fully charge your EV, a 7kW charger may be more than sufficient. If you regularly need faster charging, upgrading might be worthwhile. |
Conclusion: Is a 22kW Charger Worth It?
For most homeowners, a 7kW home EV charger is sufficient. The additional cost of installing a 22kW charger and upgrading to a three-phase power supply is hard to justify unless you have multiple EVs or an existing three-phase power setup.
Ultimately, the decision to install a 22kW charger comes down to your household’s specific needs. If you require fast charging for multiple EVs, or if you already have the infrastructure in place, then a 22kW charger may be worth the investment. Otherwise, sticking with a 7kW charger will provide more than enough charging power for most EV drivers. Please visit our EV charger Installation page here
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