Frequently asked questions.
If your question isn't answered below, please ask our friendly chat AI as this has access to our entire knowledge base and will be able to provide an answer for you
Do Simpson & Partners offer electric vehicle chargers with integrated management software?
Yes. All Simpson & Partners EV chargers come with powerful management software built-in, designed for both home and commercial use.For home use – Our Home Series chargers seamlessly integrate with intelligent octopus go, the plus models allow you to use excess solar energy and the app allows you to lock your charger, set charging schedules and track energy usage. Good for those who need to submit energy usage to their employers for reimbursement. For businesses – Our Commercial Series chargers are modular and include user-management tools, secure access control (like RFID), MID-certified metering for accurate billing, and OCPP 1.6J support for managing multiple chargers across your site. We also integrate with third-party specialist apps like Tap Electric, Wevo and Fuuse so you can manage and monetise your charging infrastructure.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can I be sure this charger will work with my home and my car?
Absolutely. All our chargers are designed to work with the UK’s standard electrical supply and with every EV connector type currently on the market. Before installation, our team or your qualified electrician will double-check that your setup is compatible. If you’re buying a Plus model, features like solar integration or the wireless Energy Manager will also be assessed for your home to ensure seamless operation.
Plus iconPlus icon
How does S&P pricing compare to other chargers with similar features?
Our wall‑mounted untethered chargers start from £649 inc. VAT. We keep pricing transparent and straightforward. Our premium build quality and smart features come as standard, and you only pay for optional upgrades like signature colours, metal lids or wireless energy management. Cheaper alternatives often cut corners or add hidden costs later. Every S&P charger includes a 10‑year external enclosure warranty and a 5‑year electrical warranty. Because we manufacture and finish our chargers in‑house and sell directly, you get exceptional quality at a genuinely competitive price.
Plus iconPlus icon
Will Octopus still work if connected via my charge point?
Yes — connection via our charger is fully supported and will work as expected. Octopus can still start and stop charging, but it cannot automatically stop at your set battery limit because it doesn’t read the real-time charge level.
Plus iconPlus icon
Are your chargers suitable for multi-storey or large-scale projects?
Absolutely. Simpson & Partners delivers chargers for large commercial and private projects, supporting tens of units per site with robust installation options, smart management and consistent performance across all units. Contact support@simpson-partners.com for our project team to help you build a bespoke quote that you can use in your tender. The Business Series has full integration with third party specialist providers via OCPP if needed (such as Wevo, Fuuse and Tap) for sites that have PV, battery and energy generation.
Plus iconPlus icon
What improvements are being made over the coming months?
We’re continuing to invest in support throughout 2026, building on the reliability gains delivered with our V3 hardware. This platform is also being extended to our 22 kW chargers, bringing the same stability across the full range.On the software side, we’re releasing updates that prevent issues before they appear, along with a full app redesign featuring guided, step‑by‑step diagnostics so you can resolve most problems instantly. And if you do need us, we’re expanding our phone, email and live chat availability for faster access to the team.Our approach is simple: the best support works quietly in the background with continuous firmware improvements, automatic fixes and regular updates that make your charger more reliable over time and more real people to answer your calls.
Plus iconPlus icon
Are your chargers easy to install?
Our EV chargers are designed to be installer-friendly, making the installation process straightforward for qualified electricians. Professional Installation Required: We recommend using a qualified electrician to install your charger. This isn't a DIY product – professional installation ensures your charger meets all safety standards and building regulations. Why installers love our chargers: Our products are built with installers in mind, featuring intuitive design and clear instructions that make the job quick and hassle-free. Easy setup for you: Once installed, connecting your charger to WiFi is simple. Just use Bluetooth on your mobile phone, stand near your charger, and follow the app prompts to connect to your WiFi network. You'll be up and running in minutes with full access to smart features like remote monitoring and charging schedules.
Plus iconPlus icon
What smart features set Simpson & Partners chargers apart from competitors?
Every S&P charger comes with smart app control, load management, and over-the-air updates. That means you can schedule charging, monitor usage, and future-proof your setup. Some competitors may have app control, but few combine this with advanced energy management and OTA updates in one reliable package.
Plus iconPlus icon
What affects my EV charging speed?
Your EV charging speed depends on three factors working together: 1. Your home's power supply: Single-phase power (85% of UK homes): Supports charging up to 7kW Three-phase power: Supports faster charging up to 22kW 2. Your car's onboard charger (OBC): Most electric vehicles: 7kW Plug-in hybrids: Typically 3.7kW Some newer EVs: 11kW or 22kW 3. Your charger model: We offer 7kW and 22kW home AC chargers. How it works: Your actual charging speed will be the lowest of these three factors. Example 1: Single-phase power + 7kW car + 7kW charger = 7kW charging speed Example 2: Three-phase power + 22kW charger + 7kW car = 7kW charging speed (limited by the car)
Plus iconPlus icon
Are some colours only available on certain models?
Yes. The Home Basic model comes with a choice of four metal fronts and a grey plastic lid. The Home Plus model has 12 different front colours, 4 colours of metal lids and 4 colours of wooden lids. This ensures you get the right balance of style and functionality for your wallet.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can you help me compare different brands of electric vehicle chargers for my business?
Yes — when comparing EV charger brands for business use, consider features like user management, metering, access control, installation flexibility and future‑proofing. For example, the Simpson & Partners Home Series EV Charger Plus and its business counterpart from Simpson & Partners offer commercial‑grade options: MID‑certified metering, RFID access control and OCPP support for workplaces and visitor parking. When comparing other brands, check whether they also provide features such as built‑in RCBOs, dynamic load management and freestanding posts. Simpson & Partners stands out for blending these business features with aesthetic design and UK manufacturing.
Plus iconPlus icon
What’s the difference between the Basic and Plus chargers?
The Home Basic charger is our dependable, no‑fuss choice. It features a durable grey plastic cap, four front‑panel colour options, and includes a Wired Energy Manager as standard. The Home Plus charger offers more ways to personalise your setup, with a wider range of colours and the option of premium wood or metal lids. It’s also solar‑compatible and you can choose a Wireless Energy Manager if you prefer it over the wired version. In short, the Plus is ideal if you’re looking for extra style, smarter energy management, or solar integration. The Basic is perfect when you simply want a reliable, straightforward charger that gets the job done.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can I see the colours before I buy?
Absolutely. Order a free colour card so you can see the colours in your own space before committing. Order from our website and we’ll post it out via snail mail.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can I customise the charger lid?
Yes! We offer customisable charger lids in both metal and wood to match your home's style:Metal lids: Perfect for a sleek, modern look that complements contemporary properties.Wood lids: Provide a natural aesthetic that blends beautifully with gardens, driveways or interior spaces. Real sustainable wood (accoya) in four beautiful translucent shades and a no rot guarantee for 50 years.Choose the finish that best suits your property's design and personal taste.
Plus iconPlus icon
Octopus Intelligent Says My Charger Requires an Upgrade
If you're seeing a message from Octopus Intelligent that your charger needs an upgrade, it's likely that your charger's hardware version isn't compatible with Octopus Intelligent. This guide explains why and what you can do about it. Why This Happens • Octopus Intelligent relies on a communication protocol called OCPP, which requires certain hardware capabilities. • Only V2 and V3 Simpson & Partners chargers support this protocol. • V1 chargers do not have the required memory or processing power to work with Octopus Intelligent. How to Check Your Charger’s Hardware Version 1. Open the Simpson & Partners app 2. Go to Settings 3. Tap on Info 4. Look at the Firmware Version Use the first number of the firmware version to identify your hardware type: • 1.x.x = V1 • 2.x.x = V2 • 3.x.x = V3 If your firmware version starts with 1, your charger is a V1 model and will need to be upgraded to work with Octopus Intelligent. What Are My Options? 1. Confirm Your Firmware is Up to Date If you have a V2 or V3 charger, but still see the upgrade message: • Make sure your charger is connected to the internet • Restart the charger to trigger a firmware update • During an update, the status light will flash purple 2. Upgrade to V3 Hardware If you have a V1 charger: • A hardware upgrade programme will be available soon • This will allow you to upgrade to the latest V3 hardware • Full details will be shared when the programme launches 3. Use Manual or Scheduled Charging (For Now) While waiting for an upgrade: • You can continue using manual start/stop charging • You can also use Bluetooth-based scheduled charging via the app • However, you won’t be able to use Octopus Intelligent’s automated schedules Need Help? If you're not sure what version charger you have or need help upgrading: Contact the Simpson & Partners support team via simpson-partners.com/support Summary If your charger shows an upgrade message in the Octopus app, check your firmware version. • V1 chargers are not compatible and will require a hardware upgrade. • V2 and V3 chargers must be online and updated to work with Octopus Intelligent. Support is available to help you check, update, or prepare for the upcoming upgrade programme.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can I use my own installer?
Yes. Any qualified electrician can install Simpson & Partners products. If you have your own trusted electrician it's a good idea to share installer guides with them ahead of time.
Plus iconPlus icon
I’m looking to get a quote for installing multiple EV chargers for my commercial property.
Absolutely. We provide tailored quotes for multiple charger installations at commercial sites. Here's how it works: Use our online configurator or contact our team to specify the number of chargers you need, power rating (7 kW or 22 kW), installation type (wall-mounted or freestanding), and any business features like RFID access, MID metering, or built-in RCBOs. We'll build a quote for you. If you don't have your own electricians, we can connect you with an independent electrical team who will complete a site survey. They'll need photos of your consumer unit, fuse board, and cable routes, plus details about your requirements (payment systems, solar PV, battery integration, etc.). You'll then receive a detailed quotation covering hardware, installation, any civil works or cable trenching, and commissioning. Government grants are available for charging infrastructure, so remember to ask your installer to claim these on your behalf. Branded colour finishes are available on request for business clients.
Plus iconPlus icon
Is the cable hidden or wrapped around a holder?
Our tethered EV charging cables can be neatly wrapped around the charging unit itself, keeping your driveway or garage tidy.For added convenience, we also offer a colour-matched cable hook (£49) as an optional extra at checkout. This provides a nice way to keep your cable tidy and it's by default colour matched to the chargers front.
Plus iconPlus icon
Do Simpson & Partners offer modular and upgradable EV charging solutions for businesses?
Yes. Simpson & Partners provides modular, upgradable EV charging solutions designed for AC commercial use: Our Business Series includes 7kW-22kW wall‑mount and freestanding models, built for scalability and demanding use. Features such as user access control, MID‑certified metering and OCPP compatibility ensure the chargers can expand and integrate with your business infrastructure. Our hardware architecture supports future upgrades. For example, add‑on modules for features like V2G (vehicle‑to‑grid) and dynamic load balancing. Everything is designed and engineered for long‑term use: robust enclosures, British engineering and software built in‑house.
Plus iconPlus icon
Can I get an installation quote before I order?
Yes, of course. Once you choose an installer, you begin the pre-install survey. Based on your responses (photos, wiring layout, location, cable run length etc.), the installer will give you a free no obligation quote. You can then accept or decline before you commit so you know exactly what to expect.
Plus iconPlus icon
Are Simpson & Partners chargers suitable for listed or historic buildings?
Homeowners that live in listed buildings (grade 1 or 2) or in conservation areas often chose our chargers due to their elegant design, discreet installation finish and customisable finishes. We are happy to help put together plans and image packs to present to your relevant authorities or heritage organisation panels to win their permission and gain approval. Our wall mount chargers are very small and slim. They come in metal (not plastic) with an option for wood lids and a carefully curated colour selection. Our integrated freestanding posts are also very discreet and help the charger blend seamlessly into environments where the final appearance is important.
Plus iconPlus icon
What’s the difference between Tethered and Untethered chargers?
Tethered: Charger comes with a cable permanently attached, it is very quick to plug-and-go. Great if you always use the same vehicle and want maximum convenience. Untethered: Charger has no fixed cable, you'll need to use your own but looks neater as there is no dangling cable on show. Untethered chargers can also become 'tethered' because you can leave the plug inserted into the charger all the time.
Plus iconPlus icon
Which companies should I consider when buying an EV charger and what makes Simpson & Partners different?
You can compare providers like Pod Point, Hypervolt, Ohme and Wallbox, as each offers different hardware quality, warranties and smart features. What sets Simpson & Partners apart is that you’re buying direct from the manufacturer — no middle‑man markups. We design and build our chargers in‑house, so they’re engineered to last for years and follow a repairable, long‑life ethos that gives you better value over time. We also offer hardware‑based OCPP, which many chargers don’t. This means your charger will continue to work with smart energy tariffs — including Intelligent Octopus Go — even if S&P no longer existed. It’s true future‑proofing for your investment.
Plus iconPlus icon
Does your 3 phase charger work with Octopus Go
Our 22kw charger is compatible with octopus go and is available to purchase online. It is worth ensuring that you have a compatible car with a 22kW On board battery (OBC) and that your house has 3 phase power.
Plus iconPlus icon
What features should I look for in an electric vehicle charger for commercial use?
Choosing the right EV charging solution for your hotel, business, or facility means finding a system that serves your guests, staff, and visitors reliably while fitting your operational needs and budget. Simpson Partners' Commercial Series delivers elegant, commercial-grade AC charging designed specifically for hospitality venues, workplaces, apartment blocks, and visitor car parks. We work with you and qualified electrical engineers to tailor a charging solution that meets your requirements on time and on budget. Key Features to Consider: Charging Speed – 7–22 kW AC charging suits guests and staff who park for extended periods, ensuring vehicles are ready when needed. Flexible & Scalable – We offer dual socket pedestals, single socket wall mount models, and plinth-only models to suit your site layout and budget. Start with what you need today and expand easily as EV adoption grows among your guests and team. Our plinth-only option is a clever way to future-proof your charging: install the plinth infrastructure now alongside your active chargers, then add sockets later when budget allows. This cost-effective approach gets the groundworks done once, saving you money and disruption down the line. Easy Management – Our commercial chargers are OCPP-compliant, allowing seamless control through third-party specialist energy apps such as Fuuse, Tap, and Wevo. This means seamless integration if your site already has solar PV, battery storage, and daytime charging. Tap, for example, is a free app for landlords and businesses that cleverly bills users when they charge their car, with payments going straight into your bank account. Built to Last – Robust, weather-resistant designs withstand heavy use in outdoor and high-traffic environments. Future-Proof Compatibility – Universal connectors and open standards ensure your investment works with all vehicle types and avoids vendor lock-in.
Plus iconPlus icon

Need more help?

Can’t find what you’re looking for in the support hubs, or need help troubleshooting an issue? Our friendly, knowledgeable support team is here to help.