The electric vehicle uptake in Australia is rising, with a growing focus on reducing emissions and accelerating the electric revolution. If you already have an EV or are considering getting one, installing an EV charger at home has multiple benefits, such as convenience and potential cost savings, especially if you're using renewable energy such as the rooftop solar system. They can also be as fast as the public charging stations and around 3 to 10 times faster than a standard 10 amp wall outlet some EV owners use at home. Here are some things to consider before installing an EV charger at your home, as outlined below.
Determining the power supply for your EV charger
Before selecting which EV charger to get, you must check your grid connection and that your power outlet, wiring, and switchboard are suitable. Australian homes typically only have single-phase connections, so the top charge rate would be 7kW, adding up to 40km of range an hour. Some homes and most commercial premises with access to three-phase power could achieve charge speeds up to 120km an hour, depending on the charger.
If you’re unsure which power connection you have in your home, count the number of switches beneath the main switch on your home's switchboard. If there is one switch, you have single-phase power; if there are three switches, your home has a three-phase power connection.
If your home’s wiring or switchboard is old, it might need upgrading before the installation. A licenced electrician can assess this separately to determine the best option for your needs or as part of the installation quote.
The lowest cost option for charging an electric vehicle at home is to use excess solar power from your rooftop solar system or energy storage battery. Specific solar EV charger models can communicate with your solar inverter via an app and only charge when your system generates power. If you don't have a rooftop solar system, charging overnight at a lower off-peak rate is the next best option.
Choosing the right EV charger option
Numerous EV chargers are available on the market in Australia from multiple providers, ranging from basic Level 1 chargers, which plug into a standard wall outlet, to advanced Level 2 chargers, which provide a range of fast charging options from 7kW to 22kW and are ideal for fully electric vehicles.
For domestic customers, our team primarily installs level 2 charging stations from EVSE that are compatible with all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Besides different brand types, they also range in power (kW), dimensions and plug types (universal socket or type 2 tethered, depending on the model). For example, 7kW Ocular charger models may provide up to 40 km of driving per hour of charge, whilst the 22kW chargers may offer up to 120km of driving per hour of charge.
Picking a suitable location for your EV charger
Most home chargers are wall-mounted, so the garage or carport is usually the best spot as it is easily accessible and near your car's charging port. Consider how you park your car in this location (i.e. nose-in or reverse-park) to ensure your charger can reach the charging port on your car. Whatever area you choose, we recommend keeping it away from sun or water exposure, especially if your charger is not weatherproof.
Getting the EV charger installed
Once you have done the background research above, the next step is to contact EV charger installers in your area to get a quote for the EV charger, installation, and power or wiring upgrades if you require it.
In Australia, dedicated EV charger providers and electrical companies sell chargers and offer installations. Please note that the EV chargers can only be installed by a licenced electrician who can help you determine the suitable charger for your electric vehicle and your home’s power supply.
Do you require assistance installing an electrical vehicle charger at your home or business?
Ehlerth Electrical team of Gold Master Electricians are qualified, experienced electric vehicle charger installers in South East Queensland. With our partner EVSE, we can provide numerous EV charger models and options for commercial and domestic uses. If you need an EV charger installed at your home or business, contact our friendly team via 1800 940 413 or info@ehlerthelectrical.com.au
