Choosing the Right Home EV Charger: How to Charge Faster, Safer, and Smarter

There has been an increase of using electric vehicles here in the Sunshine Coast as people decide to switch nowadays to EVs, and most of the common question that arises would be: “What is the right EV charger for my home?”

This is an essential question that doesn’t really give a universal answer. Buying a charger that doesn't fit can result in slow charging, too high installation fees, overloaded electrical systems or costly upgrades in the future. However, having the right charger can save money, safeguard the electrical system and guarantee that the setup is future ready.

Through this guide, we will give you the essential things that you need to know in making the right choice of EV charger.

Understanding the Need of your EV Chargers 

Level 1 vs Level 2 Charging 

• Level 1 - Standard Power Point

  • Uses a typical home outlet. Very slow and usually require 24+ hours to be fully charged.

  • Not advised for daily EV use.

Relying solely on a standard household outlet or the Level 1 charging is inefficient. It is essential to consider the Level 2 charging for homeowners.

• Level 2 - Dedicated Wall Charger

  
  

  • Designed specifically for wall-mounted units. Provides faster and safer continuous charging.

Most of the Sunshine Coast homeowners would prefer the Level 2 since it is superior and recommended.

Understanding the Charging Speed - The Kilowatt (kW) Factor

The speed of an EV charger is measured in kilowatts (kW). In general, when the kW rating is high it means faster charging.

The speed of the charger is capped by the lowest of these three factors:

1. The EV Charger's kW Rating: e.g., 7kW, 11kW, or 22kW

   
   

2. Maximum Charging Capacity: The maximum kW that the vehicle can accept.

   
   

3. The Electrical Capacity: The maximum load of power that your home can supply safely.

   
   

Common Sizes of Home Charger:

• 7kW: The most common choice for homes using standard single-phase power.

  
  

• 11kW: This is a faster option but requires a three-phase power supply.

  
  

• 22kW: Rarely installed in residential homes as it is often unnecessary.

  
  

Important: 

Choosing a very high kW rating (like 22kW) for installation, is not guaranteed to be fast charging if your car or your home’s electrical system cannot handle the speed. So it is important to undergo a professional pre-installation assessment.

Choosing the Right Installation

There are two primary installation options for EV charger:

• Plug-In Chargers

  
  

  • This is installed by plugging into a dedicated wall outlet.

  • The initial installation cost is low. 

  • Less resistant to weather.

• Hardwired Chargers

  
  

  • This is permanently connected directly to the switchboard.

  • Use safely for sustained, long-term use. Best for outdoor installations. 

  • Often required for higher power outputs.

    
    

Recommendation: The hardwired charger is advised considering the coastal environments in Sunshine Coast and maximum long-term dependability.

Evaluate Electrical Capacity, Safety, and Local Requirements 

A qualified electrician must perform a thorough assessment of the following before installation:

• Main Switchboard: Check overall capacity and ensure available space for a new circuit.

• Existing Load: Account appliances that consume major power.

• Power Supply: Check if it is single-phase or the faster three-phase.

  
  

The homes in the Sunshine Coast region can mostly support a 7kW charger without the need of any major electrical upgrades. However, this is not applicable to all.

By skipping the important electrical evaluation risks could lead to:

• Non-compliant installations

• Frequent breaker trips

• Overheating of Cable 

• Home insurance coverage is potentially voided

  
  

Costs of Installation, Future-Proofing & Professional Guidance

EV Charger Installation Costs

The total cost varies when installing an EV charger and it could be due to several factors like:

• The switchboard’s distance to the charger location.

• Any upgrades of the electrical system 

• The particular type and level of power of the charger.

• The mounting location

  
  

The installations here in Sunshine coast can start from simple setups to major upgrades, emphasizing the importance of an accurate upfront assessment.

Engaging in a low-cost installation usually leads to an overall higher expenses and risk, which can result to:

• Repair costs down the line.

• Unexpected increase of expenses later.

• Sacrificing the safety.

Why Professional EV Charger Installation is Essential

EV setup would be successful by complying with the requirements for safety and compliance, including Australian Standards, Queensland electrical regulations, and manufacturer specifications.

Safety & Compliance:

• Avoid Serious Risks: Dangerous safety hazards can happen through DIY or any unlicensed work.

  
  

• Maintain Validity: Product warranties may be voided and be failed for necessary inspections because of improper installation

  
  

The Solution:

It is non-negotiable to get a licensed electrician to have a safe, full compliance, and strong charger installation.

Future-Proofing Your EV Charging System

With the rapid advance of EV technology, ensure a lasting charger setup that is expected to function for at least 10+ years. Having a smart installation should consider:

• Upgrading EV model in the future

• Possible increase of household vehicles.

• Potential solar energy expansion or battery storage.

• Advanced load management capabilities.

  
  

Thinking About Installing an EV Charger?

At Axon Electrical we ensure that your EV charging here in Sunshine Coast is safe, compliant, and smart.

Our services include the following comprehensive EV charger installations:

• Thorough assessment of your home.

• Expert advice for the ideal charger.

• Ensure compliance and complete safety.

• Upgrading your electrical system for the future.

Start charging the smart way.

Reach out to us today to schedule your EV charger assessment.