As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, more people are looking to install EV chargers in their homes. However, with so many different types of chargers available, it can be difficult to choose the right EV charger installation Brisbane. In this article, we’ll explore what you need to consider when choosing an EV charger for your home.
- Choose the Right System for Your Vehicle
The biggest consideration when choosing an EV charger is picking one that matches your vehicle. Each carmaker uses their own charging systems and battery technologies. This means you’ll need to choose a charger with the right sockets and the right power output. There are three types of EV chargers currently available:
| Type of EV Charger | Power Output | Charging Time |
| Level 1 | 2.4kW – 3.6kW | 24-48 hours |
| Level 2 | 7.2kW – 22kW | 6-12 hours |
| Level 3 | 50kW – 300kW | 1-2 hours |
Level 3 chargers are currently limited to public charging stations. That means homeowners can choose from Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Level 1 chargers are typically too slow to charge a fully electric vehicle. They’re ideal for plug-in hybrids, but they won’t provide enough power for a car that’s driven every day.
That leaves Level 2 chargers. Level 2 EV chargers come in dozens of different varieties. The right one depends on the make and model of your vehicle, its charging capacity and your home’s electrical infrastructure.
- Consider Your Budget
There are a huge variety of EV chargers on the market. They range from about $300 to $3,000 before installation costs. The cost of installation depends on your home, where the charger is located and whether you need any electrical upgrades. You’ll need to talk to your electrician for a more concrete quote on installing an EV charger.
- Investigate Your Electrical Infrastructure
EV chargers are high-current devices that are capable of drawing huge amounts of power. Most homes – including newly built properties – aren’t designed to handle that kind of load. Before you commit to an EV charger, you’ll need to have an electrician look over your wiring and switchboard to determine whether any components require upgrading.
Installing an EV charger without upgrading your electrical infrastructure can result in serious fires. Never install an EV charger without consulting an electrician and asking them to assess your electrical system.
- Check Local Regulations
Australia’s cities are powered by electrical grids that were never designed for electric vehicles. As EVs become more common we’re expecting to see our power infrastructure get a major upgrade. Until that happens, Energex is placing limitations on certain suburbs. These limitations can directly impact your ability to install a single-phase EV charger. You’ll need to reach out to Energex to ask about your local area, and you may need their approval to install an EV charger.
- Book a Professional Consultation
The last thing you need to do before you purchase a charger is book a professional consultation. In Australia you need to work with a qualified electrician if you want to install a Level 1 or Level 2 EV charger at home. These high-current devices can be incredibly dangerous if they’re installed incorrectly, so professional help is essential.
Many electricians are now offering EV charging consultations. During the appointment, your electrician will assess your vehicle, property and any restrictions that apply to your suburb. They will then recommend a system that provides the power and performance you need.
It’s important to talk to an electrician before you purchase an EV charger. Not all homes can support all types of chargers, and you may need additional electrical or switchboard upgrades to complete the installation. Professional advice ensures you’re buying the right system and can help you avoid unnecessary expenses such as upgrading to three-phase power.
- Tie Your EV Charger Into Your Solar
This final step is optional, but it’s one of the biggest benefits of buying an eco-friendly electric vehicle. Professional EV charger installation Brisbane will be able to integrate your EV charger into your existing power system, including house batteries and solar panels.
If you’re serious about helping the environment, saving money and making the most of your investment, integrating your EV charger into your solar system provides the best performance. The good news is that this is usually a simple process. Your electrician will be able to recommend the right settings for redirecting your excess solar energy into your electric vehicle. You probably won’t be generating enough power to charge an EV in a matter of hours, but the steady trickle can keep your car topped up, and slow charging is better for the batteries anyway!
