EV Charging for Renters: Skip the Wallbox - Third Rock Energy

EV Charging for Renters: Skip the Wallbox

Michael Hobson

Written by Michael Hobson from the Third Rock Energy Team – Specialists in portable EV charging solutions across the UK.

Renting a home shouldn’t stop you from owning an EV. If you can’t install a permanent 7kW wallbox—or simply don’t want to pay for an installation you can’t take with you—a portable EV charger is the perfect solution.

Why Portable is Better for Renters

> Save Money: Avoid the £1,000+ cost of professional electricians and hardware.

> Zero Commitment: When you move house, your charger comes with you in the boot.

> Landlord Friendly: No drilling, no wiring changes, and no permission required.

> Perfect for PHEVs: If you drive a hybrid, a portable charger easily fills your battery overnight.

Charging Speed Comparison

How fast will you charge? Most UK drivers covering 20–30 miles a day find that a standard socket is more than enough for an overnight top-up.

Charger Type Power Output Range Added Per Hour Best For
13A Portable 2.3kW 6–8 miles Standard 3-pin sockets
16A Portable 3.6kW 10–15 miles Blue "Commando" sockets
7.4kW Wallbox 7.4kW 25–30 miles Permanent installs
22kW Wallbox 22kW 60+ miles* Industrial 3-Phase sites

*Requires 3-phase power. To see a full breakdown of technical specs, explore our charger comparison guide.

Is it Safe for Daily Use?

Standard "granny cables" are often built for emergencies, but Third Rock Energy chargers are designed for every day. Our units feature built-in RCD protection and intelligent heat sensors to prevent overheating. Plus, with high IP waterproof ratings, you can safely charge your EV in the rain.

Choosing Your Setup

1. Standard Reach: Our 10m 13A Portable Charger is the go-to choice for most driveways.

2. Extra Speed: If you have access to a blue industrial socket, the 16A Variable Charger charges 30% faster than a 3-pin.

3. The Tech: Not sure which plug you have? Read our guide on 13A vs 16A portable chargers to find the right fit.

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FAQ's

How do I know whether my EV needs a Type 1 or Type 2 charging connector?

Most modern UK and European EVs use a Type 2 connector, but some older or imported models may use Type 1 . The easiest way to check is by looking at your vehicle’s charging port or checking your owner’s manual.

  • Type 1: 5 pins
  • Type 2: 7 pins

For a simple breakdown of compatibility, visit our EV Cable Comparison Tables or read our Guide to the choosing the right type 2 charger. If you’re still unsure, our team can help — just head to Contact Us.

How long does it take to charge an electric car at home?

Charging time depends on your charger type, your vehicle’s battery size, and whether you’re using a 3‑pin charger, 7kW home charger, or 22kW three‑phase charger.


Most UK drivers using a 7kW charger can expect 20–30 miles of range per hour.


For a full breakdown of charging speeds, compare options in our Charger Comparison Table.

Do I need a home wallbox charger, or can I rely on a portable 3‑pin (granny) charger?

A portable 3‑pin charger is fine for occasional or emergency use, but it’s not recommended for daily charging due to slower speeds and increased strain on household sockets.


A dedicated 7kW home wallbox is safer, faster, and more efficient for everyday charging.


Learn more in our Ultimate Guide to the Best Home EV Charging Setup or explore our UK Safety Requirements for using portable chargers.

What length EV charging cable should I buy for my home?

Most drivers choose a 5m or 7.5m cable, but if your driveway layout is awkward or your charger is mounted far from your parking spot, a 10m or 15m cable may be better.
To help you choose the right length, check our Cable Length Guide or compare available options in our EV Cable Comparison Table.

Can I charge my electric car in the rain?

Yes — it’s completely safe to charge your EV in the rain. EV chargers and cables are built with high IP‑rated weather protection, and all Third Rock Energy chargers are designed for excellent outdoor durability.


For more details, see our Guide to Charging in the rain and IP Ratings Explained, check our the UK Safety Requirements, or explore our weather‑resistant chargers.

Shop Our Most Popular EV Charging Products.

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Need product support or expert advice?Contact us today for personalised help, or have a look at our FAQs for quick answers to common questions.

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