Home Charging FAQs

Charging connector types and speeds 

Similar to phone charging cables, car charging cables have two connectors: one that plugs into the vehicle socket and the other into the chargepoint itself.

The type of connector you need varies by vehicle and the power rating ("speed") of the chargepoint.*

  • Electric vehicles either have a Type 1 or Type 2 socket for slow/fast charging and CHAdeMO or CCS sockets for DC rapid charging.**
  • Most slow/fast chargepoints have a Type 2 socket. Occasionally they'll have a cable attached instead. All DC rapid charging stations have a cable attached with typically a CHAdeMO and a CCS connector.
  • Most EV drivers purchase a portable charging cable that matches their vehicle’s Type 1 or Type 2 socket so that they can charge on public networks. Some public chargers are universal and require you to bring your own cable. 

Should I choose a universal or tethered charger?

Tethered

Universal

  • Flexibility - While you need to plug the cable into a universal charger, you can use both Type 1 and Type 2 cables.
  • Cable length - A universal charging cable can be up to 10m for either connector type, depending on which cable you choose to purchase separately. 
  • Cost - Universal chargers cost less upfront as you can buy one without the cable. 
  • Convenience - Tethered chargers have a cable already attached which will either be Type 1 or Type 2.
  • Cable length - A tethered charger’s cable will be either 4.8m (Type 1) or 7.5m (Type 2) in length.

  • Cost - Tethered chargers cost more upfront because they include the charging cable.

You can choose between a universal or tethered charger depending on your preferences and requirements. It's worth checking if your vehicle comes with an EV charging cable as part of the standard order. 

Check out some of the features of both chargers below: 

How do I know if I have three-phase power?

If you wish to confirm whether you have three-phase power or not there are a few ways:

1. Try to locate your electricity supply meter. More often than not it’s written on the face of the meter in one of a few ways.



2. Check how many cables come out of the electricity meter. A single-phase meter has 2 live (brown) and 2 neutral (blue). A three-phase meter will have double the amount of cables. 

3. Ask your energy provider to check.

Pod Point home charger installation process

Your Pod Point Solo 3 will be installed by friendly and experienced installers.

  • A standard install typically takes around 2 hours.
  • The more information you provide during the ordering process, the higher the chance your install will go ahead without delays on the day.
  • Your expert will connect your Solo 3 to the internet, unlocking its full range of smart features.

Summary

An info page answering the most common FAQs about connection types, 
which chargepoint is best for you and how the installation process works. 

+353 16972516

Contact support

What to prepare for your installation?

  • Ensure the area around the distribution board/electricity supply meter is clear including the cable run route - specifically in small spaces such as under stairs and in and around garages.
  • Have your Wi-Fi password ready so your installer is able to connect your chargepoint to the internet. 

* This guide is based on the ROI and may not include complete information for all countries.
** With the exception of Tesla Model X and Model S vehicles to date, which use Type 2 connectors for DC rapids. Adapters that allow to charge

   these Tesla models via CHAdeMO or CCS connectors are available.

Tip: When purchasing a tethered charger, we’ll automatically select the right plug type for you based on the vehicle model you selected.


What is the SEAI Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant grant

The Electric Vehicle Home Charger Grant is a government funded support scheme assisting residents and homeowners to install an electric vehicle charge point on their property. The scheme provides a grant up to the value of €600 towards the purchase and installation of a home charger unit. You'll need to make sure to use a Safe Electric Registered Electrical Contractor such as Pod Point to be eligible.

The grant is now open to homeowners to apply for a grant, whether they own an electric vehicle or not. This charge point can also be used for visitor use or at rented accommodation.

Note: From September 2022 the EV Home Charger Grant Scheme will only support smart chargers registered on Triple E. 


How to claim the grant 

As a first step you will need to complete the application form. Once this has been approved and you have been sent all relevant documents from SEAI, you can place an order for your home charger installation.

To be eligible for the grant:

  • You must have dedicated off-street parking and the charger must be connected to your personal electricity supply.

  • You must not have claimed an EV home charge grant for the property already.

  • Your home must be in Ireland.

  • You must have your chargepoint installed by a fully qualified electrician who is registered with Safe Electric Ireland.

What else do I need to know before applying?

  • You’ll need your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), which you can find on your electricity bill.

  • You'll need to apply for the grant before submitting an order for a home charger.

  • The installation and any work associated with it cannot be started before the start date on the Letter of Offer.

  • From the start date you have 6 months to complete installation and submit all necessary forms and evidence.


Find out more on the grant and the application form on the SEAI website.


22kW Solo 3s require three-phase power which is relatively rare and very expensive to upgrade to, whereas, 7kW chargers require single-phase power which is the standard for homes in Ireland. 

While 22kW Solo 3s are the fastest option, charging 10x faster than a 3-pin plug, this is often wasted as 
not every EV can accept a 22Kw charging rate. 

What do I need to know about 22kW chargers?

+353 16972516

Contact support

  • Single phase - mono-phase, 1 phase
  • Three phase - tri-phase, poly-phase 

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