Start with your tariff, departure time and vehicle instructions. A correctly configured schedule can move charging into suitable hours, but no single charging speed or battery percentage is best for every EV.
Which timer should control charging?
Check the car and charger together. Conflicting timers can prevent a session even when the cable is connected. Follow the model-specific instructions and confirm the time zone, weekday settings and weekend schedule after changing a tariff.
Use the owner guide linked from your charger’s product page: BENY uses Z-BOX scheduling; Ohme plans around entered tariff and target information; Zappi GLO uses Smart Charging and schedules; Wallbox has its own app and scheduling controls. The connectivity and immediate-charge controls differ by model.
How do you check the cost of a session?
Multiply energy drawn in each tariff window by its unit rate, then add the results. Check whether a charger report measures supply energy or battery energy. If you start with vehicle consumption at the battery, allow for charging losses rather than assuming every purchased kWh reaches the battery.
Use actual bills and several sessions. The running-cost calculator estimates driving costs; our tariff comparison guide explains why standing charges and daytime household use matter when switching supplier.
Should you stop at 80%?
Follow the handbook or current manufacturer guidance for the exact car and battery. Daily targets, long-trip preparation and calibration instructions can differ. Do not apply a universal 20–80% rule or assume every LFP battery has the same charging instructions. The charger cannot override the car’s own limit.
Why might charging be slower than the rating?
The vehicle’s AC limit, household load management, temperature and session settings can reduce actual power. A lower reading is not automatically a fault. Load management may reduce or pause the charger while other household equipment operates. If behaviour changes unexpectedly, use the troubleshooting guide or contact support rather than raising installer limits.
Can you use solar electricity?
Check the actual model and commissioned monitoring. A daytime timer is not solar-surplus control. Our BENY package does not automatically track surplus; other units have specific equipment and operating conditions. Use the charger comparison and manufacturer-linked owner guidance for the system you have.
What routine checks can an owner make?
- Keep the cable stored without tight bends or obstructing a path.
- Look for visible cable, connector or enclosure damage before use.
- Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance instructions.
- Keep app access, certification, warranty and installer contact records.
- Ask a registered contractor about faults or electrical changes; do not open the charger or distribution board.
Planning a heat pump, battery or another charger? Ask for a new capacity review. ESB Networks explains the supply considerations; existing load management is not a guarantee that every future addition will fit.
Reviewed 30 October 2026 against the linked official guidance and our current catalogue. Product features depend on the exact model and commissioned installation.