Heat Pump and EV Charger: Can Your Home Handle Both?
Yes, your home can handle both — and the combination saves you money on the right tariff. A heat pump (2-5 kW) and 7 kW EV charger together draw up to 12 kW, which is within a standard 100A single phase supply's 23 kW capacity. Smart scheduling ensures they work together efficiently.
This guide covers the electrical practicalities, load management strategies, and the tariff options that make running both as cheap as possible.
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Electrical Supply Requirements
| Device | Typical Draw | Peak Draw |
|---|---|---|
| Air source heat pump | 2-4 kW | 5-6 kW |
| 7 kW EV charger | 7 kW | 7 kW |
| Household (lights, cooking, etc.) | 1-3 kW | 5-8 kW |
| Total simultaneous maximum | 10-14 kW | 18-21 kW |
A 100A single phase supply provides ~23 kW capacity. Even worst-case simultaneous load is within limits for most homes.
Load Management Strategies
- Schedule EV charging overnight: Charge between midnight and 7am when your heat pump is also running at its cheapest on Octopus Cosy
- Use smart chargers: Devices like Zappi or Ohme can modulate charging speed based on available capacity
- Stagger heavy loads: Avoid running the heat pump boost, EV charger, and oven simultaneously
- Consider a load management relay: Automatically reduces EV charging speed when heat pump demand is high
Best Tariff for Heat Pump + EV
Octopus Cosy
Best for heat pump focus. 9hrs off-peak windows benefit both devices.
EDF GoElectric
Designed for EVs. 7hrs overnight off-peak also benefits heat pump.
E.ON Next Drive
Lowest overnight rate (9-11p). Ideal for heavy overnight charging + heating.
All three tariffs provide cheap overnight electricity that benefits both your heat pump and EV charger. The combined saving from switching can be £500-800 per year compared to a standard flat tariff.
Adding Solar to the Mix
With solar panels, you can charge your EV for free during the day (when the car is at home) and run your heat pump on solar electricity during daylight hours. Combined with cheap overnight tariff electricity, the total running cost for both systems drops dramatically.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a heat pump and EV charger on single phase?
Yes. Together they draw up to 12 kW, well within a 100A single phase supply's 23 kW capacity.
Will I need an electrical upgrade for both?
Most homes with a 100A supply will not. If your main fuse is 60A, request a free upgrade to 100A from your DNO.
What is the best tariff for a heat pump and EV?
Octopus Cosy is excellent for heat pump focus. EDF GoElectric and E.ON Next Drive were designed for EVs but also benefit heat pumps. See our full tariff comparison.
Can I charge my EV with solar and run my heat pump at the same time?
A 4kW solar system produces enough for one at peak output. Smart chargers and solar diverters can prioritise between the two.
Whole-Home Electrification in the UK
The combination of heat pump, EV charger, and solar panels represents full home electrification — replacing fossil fuels for both heating and transport. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports the heat pump investment while time-of-use tariffs make running costs competitive. With proper insulation, the right tariff, and smart load management, UK households can dramatically reduce both their carbon footprint and their energy bills.