What EV Charger Do I Need?

With more drivers in Leeds switching to electric vehicles (EVs), one of the first big questions people ask is, “What EV charger do I need?” Choosing the right charger for your home or business isn’t just about price—it’s about compatibility, speed, safety, and long-term reliability.

At Duravault, we’re accredited EV charger installers covering Leeds and the surrounding areas, helping homeowners, landlords, and businesses find the perfect charging solution for their needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of EV chargers, the best brands, where to install them, who can install them, and how much you can expect to spend.

What Are the Different Types of EV Chargers?

EV chargers come in different charging speeds and connection types, and the right one for you depends on your driving habits, your vehicle’s battery size, and how quickly you need to charge.

Slow Chargers (Up to 3kW)

Slow chargers are usually 3-pin plug connections that use a standard household socket. While they’re the cheapest option, they are extremely slow, often taking 12+ hours to fully charge an EV. These are rarely recommended for regular home use due to their inefficiency and lack of safety features compared to dedicated charging units.

Fast Chargers (7kW – 22kW)

Fast chargers are the most common choice for home EV charging in Leeds. A 7kW charger can fully charge most electric cars overnight (6–8 hours). Some properties with three-phase electricity can install 22kW chargers, cutting charging time in half. Advantages:

• Safe and reliable
• Perfect for overnight charging
• Wall-mounted for convenience
• Can be paired with smart features like scheduling and app control

Rapid Chargers (43kW – 350kW)

These are usually found at public charging stations and not typically installed at home due to the cost and required infrastructure. They can charge most EVs to 80% in 20–40 minutes. For most Leeds homeowners, a 7kW or 22kW smart charger is the sweet spot—fast enough for daily use, safe, and future-proof.

What Are the Best Brands of EV Chargers?

Choosing a high-quality brand is essential for safety, efficiency, and reliability. At Duravault, we install and recommend Rolec EV chargers because they combine excellent build quality with smart features and UK-based support. Why We Recommend Rolec EV Chargers:

• UK-manufactured for quality control and compliance with UK safety standards
• Wide range of models (7–22kW, single or dual outlet)
• Smart connectivity with load balancing, scheduling, and OCPP compatibility
• Multiple access options including RFID cards, mobile app, and contactless payment
• Ongoing UK-based support and warranty cover

Compared to other brands, Rolec offers more flexibility and local support, making them ideal for Leeds homeowners and landlords who want a low-hassle, long-lasting charging solution. (Learn more about Rolec EV chargers here: Rolec Residential EV Charging)

Where Can I Install an EV Charger?

EV chargers can be installed in a variety of locations, but placement is key to convenience and safety. Common Installation Locations:

• Home driveways – Most common, secure, and easy to access.
• Garages – Keeps your charger sheltered and extends its lifespan.
• Workplace car parks – Great for employee charging or fleet vehicles.
• Communal car parks – For flats or shared residential spaces, often requiring load management systems.

We’ll also consider cable length, socket positioning, and protection from the elements when advising you on the best location. Outdoor chargers require weatherproof housing to prevent damage.

Who Can Install an EV Charger?

In the UK, only a qualified and accredited electrician can legally install an EV charger. This ensures the work meets BS 7671 wiring regulations and is safe for everyday use. Why Choose an Accredited Installer Like Duravault?

• We are OZEV-approved, meaning you can access government grants (where available).
• We’re Rolec-accredited, giving you direct access to manufacturer support and warranty cover.
• We’re local to Leeds, so we can provide fast response times and ongoing maintenance.

Trying to install an EV charger yourself is dangerous and illegal if you are not a qualified electrician—it can void your warranty, your car insurance, and even cause electrical fires.

How Much Does an EV Charger Cost?

The cost of an EV charger in Leeds depends on the brand, features, and installation requirements. Typical Costs:

• 7kW home charger installation: £1,000–£2,000
• 22kW charger installation (if you have three-phase power): £1,500–£3,000

Additional costs may include:

• Upgrading your main fuse or consumer unit
• Extra cabling for long runs
• Groundworks for driveway installations
• Smart software subscriptions (if applicable)

We provide free, no-obligation quotes so you know exactly what your installation will cost before any work begins.

How Duravault Can Help and the Areas We Cover

At Duravault, we take the stress out of EV charger installation. Our process is simple:

• Free consultation – We’ll assess your property, vehicle, and charging needs.
• Expert advice – We’ll recommend the best charger for your lifestyle.
• Professional installation – Fully compliant, neat, and tested for safety.
• Ongoing support – Because we’re local, we’re always on hand for maintenance or upgrades.

We cover the whole Leeds area including:

• Leeds City Centre
• Headingley
• Roundhay
• Horsforth
• Chapel Allerton
• Morley
• Pudsey
• Garforth
• Rothwell
• All surrounding LS postcodes

Whether you’re installing your first charger or upgrading to a faster model, Duravault is your go-to EV charger installer in Leeds.

Get Your EV Charger Installed by the Experts

If you’re ready to future-proof your home with a high-quality EV charger, get in touch today. Call us or visit www.duravault.co.uk to arrange your free consultation.