EV Chargers in Dublin – You’re Questions Answered

As premier installers of EV chargers in Dublin, we’re always speaking to clients about the installation process for these chargers. What we’ve found is that there is a lot of misinformation and misunderstandings floating around about electric cars. So, in an effort to clear these muddied waters, we’ve taken some of the most commonly asked questions and provided you with short and straightforward answers. Are your questions not below? Please contact us directly for expert and straightforward answers to all your EV Charger queries.

How much are EV home chargers? 

Considering an EV home charger for your electric vehicle? The cost isn't a one-size-fits-all figure, as it can vary depending on several factors. These include the type of charger (e.g., 7kW, 11kW, or 22kW), whether it's tethered (with a built-in cable) or untethered, and the complexity of the installation itself, which might involve electrical system upgrades or specific wiring requirements. However, to help make the transition to electric driving more accessible, homeowners in Ireland can often avail of grants, such as the SEAI Home Charger Grant, which can significantly reduce the upfront cost. When looking for reliable installation services, it's worth noting that Advance Solar offers competitive prices on EV charger installations, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective setup for your home.

Do Ev Chargers Stop Charging When Full?

Electric vehicle chargers are designed to be incredibly smart and will automatically stop charging your car once its battery reaches full capacity. This is thanks to the sophisticated Battery Management System (BMS) built into every EV, which monitors the battery's state and intelligently cuts off the power flow to prevent overcharging. This protects your battery, extending its lifespan and ensuring safety, but it also means you can plug in your EV overnight with complete peace of mind, knowing it will be ready to go with a full charge when you wake up. While the car handles the stop-charging process seamlessly, some owners set their daily charging limit to around 80-90% to further optimise battery longevity, but rest assured, your EV will never overcharge.

How are EV chargers installed?

Advance Solar goes above and beyond when installing an EV charger to ensure its customers a seamless and professional experience. Our comprehensive process typically begins with a thorough site assessment to understand your home's unique electrical setup and identify the optimal location for your charger, ensuring it's both practical and compliant. They'll guide you through selecting the correct charger type for your needs and can even assist with navigating the SEAI Home Charger Grant application, helping you maximise potential savings. Once a plan is agreed upon, their certified electricians will expertly manage all aspects of the installation, from the necessary wiring and safety checks to liaising with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to ensure the grid can handle the increased power draw. After installation, Advance Solar conducts rigorous testing to guarantee everything is functioning perfectly and often provides a clear demonstration of your new charger's features, leaving you confident and ready to power up your EV.

 How many different EV chargers are there?

When exploring the world of EV charging in Ireland, it's less about the vast number of "different" chargers and more about understanding the types and speeds they offer. While many brands are available, they generally fall into a few key categories, each designed for different charging needs and locations.

You'll primarily encounter AC chargers at home, typically ranging from 3.7kW to 7.4kW. These are perfect for overnight charging and topping up your battery while you sleep, and they are eligible for grants like the SEAI Home Charger Grant. While some homes with a three-phase electricity supply can support 11kW or 22kW AC chargers faster, 7.4kW is the most common and practical for domestic use.

Beyond the home, Ireland's public charging network offers various options. You'll find AC chargers (often up to 22kW), commonly seen in car parks or on-street locations, which are great for a few hours of charging while you shop or work. DC (Direct Current) fast and rapid chargers are your go-to for quicker top-ups and longer journeys. These range from 50kW to 150kW or even 350kW+ ultra-rapid chargers at motorway service stations and major hubs. These high-power DC chargers can significantly reduce charging times, often getting your battery to 80% in 30 minutes or less.

Regardless of the charger's speed, you'll typically encounter two main connector types in Ireland: Type 2 for AC charging (the most common for home and public AC chargers) and CCS (Combined Charging System) for DC fast charging (the standard for most modern EVs). Some older models also use CHAdeMO for DC charging. So, while the landscape of EV chargers might seem varied, it boils down to choosing the correct power output and connector type for your vehicle and your charging habits. We can advise you on the right EV Charger for your needs.

We’re sure you still have questions, so please contact our offices today.