Introduction

A 13A or 10A EV charger — often called a “3‑pin EV charger” or “granny charger” — is one of the most useful tools an electric vehicle owner can have. Whether you’re charging at home, staying at a holiday cottage, visiting family, or preparing for emergencies, a 13A charger gives you the flexibility to charge from any standard UK household socket.

But how fast are 13A chargers? Are they safe? When should you use one instead of a wall box? And what should you look for when choosing a high‑quality, UK‑certified model?

This guide breaks down everything UK drivers need to know about 13A EV chargers in 2026.

What Is a 13A EV Charger?

A 13A EV charger is a portable charging unit that plugs into a standard UK 3‑pin socket. It delivers up to 3kW of charging power, making it the slowest but most universally compatible way to charge an EV.

Key characteristics

Uses a standard UK 3‑pin plug

Delivers ~3kW charging power

Works in any UK home, garage, or outbuilding

No installation required

Fully portable — ideal for travel

Compatible with all Type 2 EVs

Because every UK property has 3‑pin sockets, a 13A charger is the most accessible charging solution available.

How Fast Is a 13A EV Charger?

A 13A charger typically adds:

6–8 miles of range per hour

This makes it ideal for:

Overnight charging

Emergency top‑ups

Low‑mileage drivers

Charging while visiting friends or family

Typical charging times

While slower than a 7kW wall box, a 13A charger is perfectly adequate for overnight charging or topping up during the day.

Are 13A EV Chargers Safe?

Yes — when they are properly certified and built to UK standards.

A high‑quality 13A charger includes:

Temperature monitoring

Built‑in RCD protection AC 30mA  & DC 6mA

Overheat protection

Surge protection

Automatic power reduction

Waterproof IP rating

Reinforced 3‑pin plug (Thermostatic)

Why safety matters

A standard 3‑pin socket was not originally designed for continuous high‑load use. This is why cheap, uncertified chargers are dangerous — they often lack temperature sensors and can overheat.

A premium UK‑certified charger continuously monitors:

Plug temperature

Cable temperature

Current flow

Voltage stability

If anything becomes unsafe, it automatically reduces power or shuts down.

When Should You Use a 13A EV Charger?

Overnight Charging

Perfect for drivers who plug in at night and don’t need rapid charging. Set the charger to 10A when charging for long periods to reduce the strain on the charger and your sockets

Emergency Charging

If your main charger fails, a 13A charger keeps you mobile.

Travel & holiday homes

Ideal for cottages, Airbnbs, caravans, and rural stays.

Visiting Friends or Family

You can charge anywhere with a standard socket.

Low‑Mileage Drivers

If you drive 10–20 miles per day, a 13A charger is more than enough.

13A vs 16A vs 7kW: What’s the Difference?

Key takeaway

A 13A charger is the most flexible, a 16A charger is the fastest portable option, and a 7kW wallbox is the best long‑term home solution.

What to Look for in a High‑Quality 13A EV Charger

UKCA & CE Certification

This is non‑negotiable. It ensures the charger meets UK safety standards.

Built in RCD protection

AC 30mA  & DC 6mA

Temperature Protection

Prevents overheating at the plug and cable.

Waterproof Rating (IP65 or higher)

Essential for outdoor use.

Reinforced 3‑Pin Plug

Stops heat build‑up during long charging sessions.

Adjustable Amperage

Allows you to reduce load if using older sockets.

Durable Cable Construction

Thick insulation and high‑purity copper ensure stable charging.

Carry Case Included

Keeps the charger clean, dry, and organised in your boot.

2‑Year Warranty

Shows confidence in build quality.

These are the exact features found in premium UK chargers — including the Third Rock Energy 13A Portable EV Charger.

How Much Does It Cost to Charge Using a 13A Charger?

Charging cost depends on your electricity tariff.

Typical UK home charging cost

Standard tariff: 28–34p per kWh

Off‑peak EV tariff: 7–12p per kWh

Example: 60kWh battery

Standard tariff: £16–£20

Off‑peak tariff: £4–£7

A 13A charger costs the same to run as any other AC charger — it just charges more slowly.

FAQs

Is a 13A EV charger safe to use every day?

Yes — as long as it is UK‑certified and includes temperature protection.

How fast is a 13A EV charger?

Typically 6–8 miles of range per hour.

Can I use a 13A charger in the rain?

Yes, if it has an IP65 or higher waterproof rating.

Do all EVs support 13A charging?

Yes. All Type 2 EVs can charge from a 3‑pin socket.

Is a 13A charger a replacement for a wall box?

For low‑mileage drivers, yes. For most drivers, it’s best as a backup or overnight solution.

Can I leave a 13A charger plugged in overnight?

Yes — high‑quality chargers are designed for safe, long‑duration charging.

Conclusion

A 13A EV charger is one of the most practical and versatile charging solutions for UK drivers. It’s safe, reliable, and compatible with every home in the country. Whether you use it as your main charging method or keep it in your boot for emergencies, a high‑quality, UK‑certified 13A charger gives you complete flexibility and peace of mind.

For most drivers, a 13A charger is an essential part of EV ownership — especially when paired with a durable, UK‑certified Type 2 cable for everyday charging.