EV Charging - things to consider

Considerations for installing an Electric Vehicle charger

Are you considering installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in your home? This is a great idea, as it will provide you with convenient access to charging your EV and will give you peace of mind when you leave your home. Before you get started, though, there are a few things that you should consider.

We discuss some of the key things to consider when installing an electric vehicle charging station. We will look at everything from the cost to the types of charging available, and more. So, read on to learn more about the considerations you should make when it comes to installing an EV charging station.

Why install an Electric Vehicle charger?

EV charging is quick and safe, and you can rest assured that your EV will be charged to the optimal level whenever you need it. Plus, with the EV charging app on your phone, you can check up on your EV’s charging status from anywhere – so you never have to worry about running out of juice. Installing an EV charger at your home is a big decision, but the many benefits they provide make it a worthwhile investment. From convenience and cost savings to peace of mind, having an EV charger at home can be a real game changer.

Electric vehicle chargers offer a variety of benefits over traditional petrol and diesel vehicles. They are cleaner, more reliable, and more sustainable, making them an ideal choice for the environmentally conscious driver.

Electric vehicle chargers provide zero emissions, no pollutants and no exhaust fumes. This means that the cars produce no carbon dioxide or other particulate matter. This means that pollution levels are lowered and the air we all breathe is cleaner and healthier. Furthermore, electric cars are often quieter than a fuel-powered vehicle, particularly when charging. Electric vehicles also offer much better fuel efficiency than traditional cars, making it an economical choice.

Electric cars provide a wide range of benefits when it comes to maintenance and reliability. With no combustion engines, there is less wear and tear to the model, because there are fewer moving parts. This leads to a longer lifespan, lower repair and maintenance costs, and makes the vehicles much more reliable overall. With so many advantages to be had, there are many reasons to consider installing an electric vehicle charger at your home or workplace.

Can your existing electrical system accommodate an EV charger?

Before deciding to install an electric vehicle charger, it's important to assess your current electrical infrastructure. Carrying out a thorough assessment of your home’s electrical system should help you identify potential issues and determine if any upgrades are needed to support an electric vehicle charger.

First, take a closer look at your electrical switchboard. Do you have a dedicated circuit for an electric car charger, or would the connection need to be shared with multiple uses? If your switchboard indicates that a circuit is overloaded, then you'll need to install a new one or upgrade your existing electrical panel to accommodate the charger.

Next, make sure you have the appropriate electrical power points in place. Most electric vehicle chargers need to be connected to a 240V outlet. This is a more powerful outlet than the 120V that powers regular appliances, so you may need an electrician to upgrade your system, and switchboard, as necessary. You will also need to make sure you have enough amperage available to power the charger. Usually something around 30 amps is needed, and depending on how much amperage is available in your house, this may mean having an electrician provide a separate circuit for the charger.

Where should I install my electric charging station?

When thinking about installing an electric vehicle charger in a specific area, check that the locale is suitable for an EV charging station.

Whether you’re charging your electric vehicle at home or at a business, the location you choose can have a major impact on the convenience and cost of charging. Where you install an EV charger depends on several factors:

Layout of your space - Not all locations are equally suitable for EV charger installation. Look at the places with accessible power sources, then consider whether or not you might need to customise the physical location of the charger to maximise convenience. You’ll also want to think about the height of the EV charger so that it is a good height for you, and your family or friends, to navigate with ease.

How many electric vehicles will be regularly using the charger - This will determine how much power is needed, which could influence the capability of the charger and the installation costs.

Easy to use - Look for somewhere that is well-lit and has easy access to an existing power source. It’s also a good idea to choose an area that is secure, so that the charger is away from potential thieves or vandals.

Choosing the right EV charger

When it comes to installing an electric vehicle (EV) charger, it can be a challenge deciding which type of charger is right for you. There are several different types of chargers and various factors to consider, from the power output needed to the compatibility of the charger with your car.

What type of EV charger will you need?

Wall mounted, portable or cable based chargers all have their advantages, so you'll need to identify which best suits your needs. A wall mounted charger is a great option if you have a garage or dedicated parking spot, while a cable based charger is a good choice for those who don’t have access to a wall mounted charger. If you don’t have a dedicated parking spot or a garage, a portable charger may be the best fit.

What power output does your EV charger need?

You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for your EV to check the charging capacity. Charging capacity can range from 3kW to 50kW, so you'll need an EV charger that matches the output specifications of your car.

Compatibility of the EV charger and your electric vehicle

Make sure that your charger is compatible with your EV. An EV charger may be advertised as being compatible with most EVs, but you should read the manual for your EV to check for compatibility. Furthermore, you may need to check with the manufacturer of your EV to make sure that the charger you select is supported.

Preparing your home for a charger

If you’re looking to install an electric vehicle charger at your home, there are a few preparations that you need to make. Firstly, make sure you have the appropriate electrical outlets in place. Most electric vehicle chargers need to be connected to a 240V outlet. This is a more powerful outlet than the 120V that powers regular appliances, so you may need an electrician to upgrade your system, and switchboard, as necessary. You will also need to make sure you have enough amperage available to power the charger. Usually something around 30 amps is needed, and depending on how much amperage is available in your house, this may mean having an electrician provide a separate circuit for the charger.

If your property has a shared driveway, or if the charger is out in the open, you should check local regulations to ensure you follow any required safety guidelines. This could include having a qualified electrician install a high-voltage safety switch or an earth leakage circuit interrupter. If you have a smaller living space without much outdoor space, you'll have to make sure your charger won't cause a fire hazard. Make sure the device is certified for indoor use, and that there's sufficient ventilation.

Installing an electric vehicle charger in your home is a great way to ensure you can always be on the road. But you want to make sure you’re taking all the necessary steps to do it safely and properly. Follow these considerations and you should be good to go.

In conclusion, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing an EV charger. From the type of EV charger to the power output and compatibility, you'll need to make sure you understand all of these considerations before selecting an EV charger.

Doing your research and consulting with the experts at First Call Electrical on 1300 360 215 can ensure that you make the right choice when selecting an EV charger.