However, installing an EV charger is not as simple as plugging in a phone. It’s a significant electrical upgrade that requires careful planning and a professional, compliant installation. At Uncommon Electricians, we are your local experts in making the transition to an EV seamless and safe. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about setting up the perfect home charging solution.
Understanding Your Home Charging Options
When it comes to charging an EV at home, there are two main options:
1. Level 1 Charging (Standard Power Point)
This is the simplest form of charging and involves using the charging cable that came with your car and plugging it directly into a standard 10-amp household power point.
The Upside: It’s easy, and you don’t need any additional installation costs.
The Downside: It’s incredibly slow. A Level 1 charger typically adds only about 10-12 km of range per hour. For many modern EVs, this means a full charge could take over 24 hours, making it impractical for daily use. More importantly, using a standard power point for this consistent, high-draw load can be a safety risk if the circuit or wiring is old or not in perfect condition.
2. Level 2 Charging (Dedicated Wall Charger)
This is the most popular and practical option for Australian homeowners. A Level 2 charger is a purpose-built wall unit that is professionally installed by an electrician.
The Upside: It’s fast and reliable. A Level 2 charger can add 35-40 km of range per hour on a single-phase connection, or up to 130 km per hour on three-phase power. This means you can easily get a full charge overnight or even during the day while you’re at work. It’s also much safer as it’s installed on a dedicated circuit.
The Downside: It requires professional installation and an initial investment in the unit and the electrical work.
For any EV owner, a Level 2 dedicated wall charger is the smart, long-term solution for home charging.
What’s Involved in a Professional EV Charger Installation?
Installing a home EV charger is not a DIY task; it requires a licenced electrician. A professional installation involves several key steps to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance:
1. Switchboard Assessment and Upgrades
Your home’s electrical system needs to be able to handle the high, continuous load of an EV charger without overloading. The first step for any qualified electrician is to assess your switchboard. If your home is older or already has a high electrical demand, your switchboard may need to be upgraded to accommodate the new circuit.
2. Running a Dedicated Circuit
According to Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3000), every EV charger must be installed on its own dedicated circuit. This dedicated circuit will include its own circuit breaker and RCD (Residual Current Device) protection to prevent overcurrent and protect against electric shock. This is a critical safety measure that ensures the charger doesn’t interfere with other appliances and is protected from electrical faults.
3. Choosing the Right Location
We’ll work with you to find the most suitable location for your wall charger, typically in a garage, carport, or other protected parking area. Considerations include the length of the charging cable, the location of your car’s charging port, and accessibility. Outdoor installations require a specific IP-rated, weather-resistant charger and proper protection from the elements.
4. Queensland-Specific Regulations
As your local experts, we are fully up-to-date with all Queensland Electrical Connection Manual (QECM) regulations. In Queensland, if a single-phase EV charger has a nameplate rating greater than 20 amps, it must have active device management. This is a crucial detail that ensures your home’s connection remains safe and doesn’t overload the local grid. Uncommon Electricians will handle all these technical details for you, ensuring your installation is fully compliant from day one.
Why You Need a Licenced Electrician for the Job
An EV charger is not just an appliance; it’s a piece of electrical infrastructure that needs to be treated with the same respect as a solar system or a new air conditioning unit.
Safety and Compliance: It is illegal and incredibly dangerous for an unlicensed person to install an EV charger. A professional installation ensures your charger complies with all Australian Standards and is signed off as safe. This is not only for your family’s safety but also for your home insurance.
Peace of Mind: A professional ensures the installation is robust and reliable, so you can count on your charger working every time. We will also perform a full inspection to ensure your entire system is ready to handle the increased load.
Future-Proofing: We can help you choose a charger and a circuit that has the capacity for future upgrades or even for a second EV down the road.
The Uncommon Electricians Solution: Your Local EV Experts
At Uncommon Electricians, we are excited about the future of EVs and are passionate about helping our customers make the transition seamlessly. We don’t just install chargers; we provide a complete service that includes:
Expert Advice: We’ll help you choose the right charger for your car and your home.
Safety Assessment: We’ll perform a full safety check on your switchboard to ensure it’s ready.
Seamless Installation: We handle the entire installation process, ensuring a clean, tidy, and compliant result.
Ongoing Support: We’re a local business, so we’re always here to answer your questions and help you with any future needs.
Don’t let a dodgy installation compromise your safety or your investment. Choose a professional who knows the regulations and puts safety first.
Ready to start charging your EV from the convenience of your own home? Contact Uncommon Electricians for a consultation on your EV charger installation. Call us on 07 3074 9486 or visit our website to get started.
