As electric vehicle (EV) ownership continues to rise across Australia, many Engadine residents are making the switch to home and workplace charging solutions. Whether you’re already driving an EV or looking to install a charger for the future, ensuring you choose the right equipment and installation method is key to a smooth, safe, and future-ready charging experience.
Here’s everything you need to know to get started with your EV charger installation.
Choosing the Right EV Charger & Power Supply
The first step in installing an EV charger is selecting the right equipment. The choice depends on your vehicle, driving habits, and available electrical setup.
Charger Location: The charger should ideally be within 3 metres of your car’s charging port for maximum convenience. Installing it near the garage door can offer flexibility, especially if you park outside or have an outdoor parking space.
Power Supply: If your home or business has access to three-phase power, you can benefit from faster charging speeds. However, if three-phase power is not available, a single-phase 32Amp (7.4kW) connection will be sufficient for most residential setups and offers reasonable charging speed.
Cable Selection: Choose the appropriate cable for your charger to ensure safety. For chargers above 16A, a 2.5 mm² cable is the minimum, and three-phase chargers will require a more robust 5-conductor cable. Longer cables offer flexibility in parking but can be heavier, so ensure they’re properly sized to prevent overheating.
Prior Installation Considerations
Once you’ve selected the right equipment, there are considerations prior to commencing the installation.
On-Site Consultation: Always get an on-site quote from a licensed electrician before installation. They will assess your electrical system and provide tailored recommendations to ensure a safe and efficient setup.
Dedicated Charging Circuit: Your EV charger must be installed on a dedicated circuit, separate from other household appliances. The circuit design must meet Australian standards, which include ensuring the charger has enough power for safe operation.
RCD Protection: Each charger should have its own Residual Current Device (RCD) if not built into the unit. This adds an extra layer of protection against electric shocks.
Qualified Installation: Installing an EV charger is a complex job that should only be handled by a licensed, qualified electrician. They will ensure the work meets all safety standards and complies with local regulations.
Powering Your EV with Solar Energy
If you have a solar power system, integrating it with your EV charger is an excellent way to reduce electricity costs and make your charging more sustainable. Solar panels allow you to harness free energy during the day for charging your EV, and if you have a solar battery system, you can store excess energy for night-time use.
If solar power isn’t an option for you, consider switching to a green energy plan or purchasing carbon offsets from your electricity provider to reduce your environmental impact.
Compliance with Australian Standards
All EV charger installations must comply with the Australian Standard for electrical installations. This ensures that the installation meets strict safety protocols, uses proper wiring, and guarantees that the charger is correctly integrated with your electrical system and the grid. Compliance with these standards also helps prevent issues such as overheating, electrical faults, and ensures long-term reliability.
Why Engadine Residents Trust Us
The Absolutely On-Time Electrical team is dedicated to delivering cutting-edge electrical solutions that meet the needs of today and prepare you for tomorrow. Our team excels in providing efficient, safe installations for a variety of modern systems, ensuring that each project is future-proofed for evolving technologies.
With a strong focus on sustainability, we offer tailored solutions that seamlessly integrate with renewable energy sources. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your electrical setup or create a more efficient energy ecosystem, our licensed electricians are here to guide you through every step, from selection to installation, ensuring your system runs efficiently for years to come.