With the growing popularity of electric vehicles across the UK, more homeowners are opting to install EV chargers on their properties. At RCD Electrical, we are often asked: “Will installing an EV charger increase my electricity bill?” The short answer is yes – but it’s more nuanced than you might think. In this article, we’ll explain how installing a home EV charger may affect your energy costs and how RCD Electrical helps customers stay in control of their electricity use.
Understanding Electricity Usage Post Installation
When you install an EV charger at home, you are effectively adding a new high-powered appliance to your household. Naturally, this increases your total electricity usage. Charging an EV from empty to full typically consumes around 7 to 40 kWh per session depending on battery size and charger type. However, this increase should be viewed in the context of the savings you gain from not refuelling with petrol or diesel.
Smart Charging and Off-Peak Tariffs
At RCD Electrical, we install EV chargers that are compatible with smart charging technologies. These allow you to charge your vehicle during off-peak hours when electricity tariffs are lower. This can significantly reduce the cost impact on your monthly bill. We also advise customers on choosing the right energy provider and tariff to align with their driving habits and charging schedule.
What Type of EV Charger Affects Energy Use?
There are different levels of EV chargers – mainly 3.6kW, 7kW, and 22kW units. A 7kW charger, the most commonly installed in UK homes, typically adds 30 miles of range per hour and is highly efficient. While the initial electricity usage will increase, RCD Electrical ensures the charger is installed to work in harmony with your household’s existing electrical load, preventing unnecessary strain or inefficiency.
How RCD Electrical Keeps Your Energy Bills Predictable
One of the key advantages of choosing RCD Electrical is our tailored approach. We don’t just install chargers – we assess your current electrical system, energy usage, and driving needs to recommend the best solution. This includes:
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Load balancing to prevent system overloads
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Integration with solar panels (if available)
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Advice on smart energy meters and apps
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Aftercare support to optimise your settings over time
Our qualified electricians ensure that every installation is compliant with UK safety regulations, NICEIC certified, and future-proofed for evolving vehicle needs.
Cost vs Savings: A Practical Perspective
Yes, your electricity bill will likely increase – but when you compare this to the money saved on fuel and maintenance, it’s often a win. On average, EV drivers spend significantly less per mile compared to those using petrol or diesel. Moreover, when paired with time-of-use tariffs or renewable energy systems, your energy costs can remain stable or even reduce over time.
Other Benefits of Home EV Charger Installation
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Convenience – No more trips to public charging stations
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Increased Property Value – EV charger-ready homes are increasingly desirable
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Environmental Benefits – Reduced carbon footprint
By investing in professional EV charger installation with RCD Electrical, you're choosing long-term savings, energy efficiency, and peace of mind.
Let’s Talk: Your EV Charger Experts
RCD Electrical is a trusted name for domestic and commercial EV charger installations in the UK. From first consultation to final inspection, we ensure every client understands their new system and how to use it efficiently. We're here to help you transition to electric driving without unexpected energy costs.
Call us on: 02034882928
Email: info@rcdelectrician.co.uk