We strongly advise against using a 3-pin plug (granny cable) for daily EV charging. It should only be used as an emergency backup, not as your regular charging method.
Safety risks — A 3-pin plug draws a continuous high load (around 2.3kW) for 10+ hours. Most domestic sockets and wiring were not designed for this kind of sustained demand. Over time this can cause overheating in the socket, the plug, or the wiring behind the wall — particularly in older properties where wiring may already be marginal.
Speed — At 2.3kW, a granny cable adds roughly 8 miles of range per hour. A full charge on a 60kWh battery takes over 24 hours. A dedicated 7kW charger is 3-4 times faster, giving you a full charge overnight.
Insurance — Most motor insurance policies and some home insurance policies expect you to use a properly installed, dedicated EV charger for regular home charging. Using a 3-pin plug regularly could affect your cover.
Smart features — A dedicated charger lets you schedule charging for off-peak tariff hours (saving hundreds per year), monitor energy usage, and integrate with solar panels. None of this is possible with a granny cable.
A dedicated 7kW charger installation starts from around £950 — a small investment for daily safety and convenience.