EV Chargers
If you’ve recently invested in an electric vehicle (EV), you’re probably wondering about the easiest and most efficient way to charge it. Unlike Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, EV’s take time to refill. Although you can use a local charging station, the ease and convenience of a home charger means you can plug in your EV without worrying about fitting a charge into your day. Unlike petrol, you don’t need to go out of your way to charge an EV; you can do it at home.
How long does an EV take to charge?
The time taken to charge an EV can vary widely based on the type of charger; you can charge your vehicle in as little as 30 minutes at some stations, or it may take up to two days on a slow or portable charger. Charging time also depends on factors like battery capacity and the level of charge remaining.
Types of EV Chargers
Slow, Medium, or Rapid
Slow chargers are the most basic option and are suitable for overnight charging, medium chargers offer faster charging speeds and can typically charge an EV in 4-6 hours. Rapid chargers are the fastest option available and can charge most EVs up to 80% in just 30 minutes. These chargers are only available commercially due to cost, and very few homeowners pay for the upgrades necessary to connect them.
Some vehicles with a long-range batteries will not be fully charged just overnight.
Type 1, 2, and 3
Type 1 chargers are most common in North America and Australia and use a single-phase AC connection. Type 2 chargers are the European standard and can support both single and three-phase AC connections. Type 3 chargers use DC current and have a mucher higher voltage, and they are designed for safety, featuring a shuttered socket and a locking mechanism.You’ll usually see type 3 chargers used for primarily commercial applications.
Where can you find an EV charger?
Although you may know where your local chargers are, when you’re taking a trip, it’s important to plan ahead. Although there are an estimated 14,000 EV public charging stations across Australia (up from 1,000 in 2017), they aren’t on every corner the way petrol stations with multiple bowsers are.
“Some EV’s come with directions to your nearest charging stations, but if you don’t have this option, PlugShare offers a free app that lists over 440,000 charging station locations worldwide.”
Many EVs come with a standard, slower charge that plugs into a basic powerpoint. Faster ones require installation by an electrician. There are specific wiring requirements and safety regulations. You must make sure your charger is installed by a company with the experience to avoid issues.
How much does an in-home EV charger cost?
Depending on the type of vehicle you’re driving and the type of charger you choose, you can expect to pay from $900-2000+ for household installation. The cost of installation will depend on factors like the distance from your electrical panel to the charging station, any necessary upgrades to your electrical system, and labor costs.
In our experience, customers usually pay around $500-600.
Basically, the faster you want to charge your EV, the more you need to pay.
Choosing the right EV charger for your home
When selecting an EV charger for your home, it’s essential to consider factors like the charging speed, compatibility with your vehicle, and any future-proofing needs. Consult with an experienced EV charger installation professional in Toowoomba who can assess your requirements and recommend the best charger for your needs.
Installation process and safety
Professional installation ensures that your EV charger is set up correctly and safely. A qualified electrician experienced with EV chargers will check your home’s electrical capacity, install the appropriate circuit breaker, and ensure that all wiring and connections are secure. They will also ensure that your charger is compliant with local regulations and safety standards.
If you have solar and an EV charger, you essentially make your own fuel.
By investing in a home EV charger, you’re taking a step towards a greener and more sustainable future. With the right charger and professional installation, you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of charging your electric vehicle at home.
