Home EV Charging vs. Public Charging: Which Is Best? Plus, Top Overnight Charging Hacks

Introduction

With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), charging options have become a key factor for owners. Should you invest in a home charging station, or rely on public chargers when you're out and about? This article explores the pros and cons of both, plus essential hacks to maximise overnight charging efficiency.

Home Charging vs. Public Charging: The Pros & Cons

Home EV Charging

✅ Pros:

• Convenience – Charge your EV overnight while you sleep.

• Lower Cost – Charging at home is usually cheaper than public charging.

• Predictable Availability – No waiting for a free charger.

• Customisation – Choose a charger with the speed and features you prefer.

❌ Cons:

• Installation Cost – A home wall box costs between £500-£1,500, depending on the model.

• Charging Speed – Most home chargers provide 7kW, which takes longer than ultra-rapid public chargers.

• Limited to Home Base – Not useful if you're travelling far and need extra power on the go.

Public EV Charging

✅ Pros:

• Faster Charging – Rapid chargers (50kW+) and ultra-rapid chargers (150kW+) can top up an EV quickly.

• Ideal for Long Journeys – Essential for road trips where home charging isn’t an option.

• More Locations Available – Increasing network coverage across the UK.

❌ Cons:

• Higher Costs – Some public fast chargers cost £0.50-£0.80 per kWh, significantly more than home electricity tariffs.

• Waiting Times – You may have to queue, especially at peak times.

• Varied Reliability – Some chargers may be out of service or require different payment apps.

Best Overnight Charging Hacks

1. Use an Off-Peak Tariff

Many energy providers offer EV-friendly tariffs with cheaper rates at night (e.g., Octopus Go, EDF GoElectric). Set your car to charge during these low-cost hours to save money.

2. Schedule Charging Smartly

Most EVs have built-in scheduling features. Set charging to start at your off-peak rate times for automatic savings.

3. Use a Smart Charger

A smart home charger (like the Ohme Home Pro or Zappi) can optimise charging based on energy prices and solar panel input, helping you charge at the cheapest and greenest times.

4. Reduce Battery Degradation

To extend battery life, avoid charging to 100% daily. Instead, keep it between 20-80% unless you need the full range for a long trip.

5. Precondition Your EV in the Morning

If your car supports it, use preconditioning while plugged in to warm up the battery before driving. This reduces energy consumption during your journey, especially in cold weather.

6. Charge During Solar Peak (If You Have Solar Panels)

If you have solar panels, schedule charging during the sunniest hours of the day. Some smart chargers even integrate with solar power to make the most of free, green energy.

7. Use a Charge Timer to Avoid Vampire Drain

Some EVs consume small amounts of power even when parked. Use a timer to stop charging once it reaches 80% to prevent unnecessary energy use.

Final Verdict: Home Charging or Public Charging?

• For daily convenience and cost savings, home charging is the winner.

• For long journeys and quick top-ups, public charging is essential.

• To get the best of both worlds, plan your charging strategy wisely, using overnight home charging whenever possible.

EV owners in Barnsley and South Yorkshire can benefit from a growing public charging network, but a home charger remains the best long-term solution for most.

Need an EV-Friendly Car?

Looking for an electric car in Barnsley? At AnyColourCar.com, we stock a range of electric and hybrid vehicles, perfect for both home and public charging.

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