Home EV Charger Installation Guide | Key Things to Consider

Thinking about installing an EV charger at home? Learn the key factors to consider, including electrical capacity, charger types, installation costs, safety, and future-proofing, so you can charge smarter and safer from day one.

Key Tips for Choosing and Installing the Right EV Charger

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming a common sight on Australian roads. They’re quiet, efficient, and environmentally friendly, but one of the biggest advantages of owning an EV is the ability to charge it at home. Instead of relying on public charging stations, you can simply plug in overnight and start each day with a full battery.

However, before you install a home EV charger, it’s important to understand what’s involved. From your home’s electrical capacity to choosing the right charger and planning for the future, making the right decisions early can save you money, improve charging speed, and keep your household safe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key things to consider before installing an EV charger at home so you can make the right choice from day one.

1. Assessing Your Home’s Electrical Capacity

Your home’s electrical system wasn’t originally designed with EV charging in mind. A typical EV charger, especially a dedicated Level 2 charger, draws more power than everyday appliances. If your switchboard is already supporting air conditioning, an electric oven, or a pool pump, adding an EV charger might push it beyond its safe limit.

That’s why the first step is a professional assessment. A licensed electrician will:

Check whether your switchboard and wiring can handle the charger’s load.
Advise whether you need a switchboard upgrade or safety devices like residual current devices (RCDs).
Ensure your installation complies with Australian safety standards.

2. Choosing the Right EV Charger

Not all EV chargers are the same, and the best option depends on your driving habits and daily mileage.

Level 1 Charging (Standard 240V outlet): Uses a regular household power point. It’s inexpensive but very slow, often taking more than 20 hours to fully recharge a vehicle.
Level 2 Charging (Dedicated wall charger, 7–22kW): The most popular choice for Australian homes. A Level 2 charger can recharge most EVs overnight, offering a convenient balance of speed and efficiency.
Level 3 DC Fast Charging (22–350kW): Usually reserved for public charging stations due to high power requirements and cost. Not typically suited for home installations.

3. Charger Location & Accessibility

Where you install your charger is just as important as the charger itself. A carefully chosen location makes day-to-day charging effortless and keeps equipment safe from damage. Key considerations include:

Parking habits: Is your EV usually parked in a garage or driveway?
Cable reach: The charger should be close enough to connect easily without extension leads.
Weather protection: Outdoor chargers need weatherproof housings to withstand Australian conditions.
Future access: If you buy a second EV down the track, will you need space for another charger?

4. Future-Proofing Your Setup

EV technology is advancing rapidly. What works today may not be enough in a few years. When planning your installation, think ahead about:

Multiple vehicles: Will your household need two chargers in the future?
Solar integration: Pairing your EV charger with rooftop solar can significantly reduce charging costs.
Smart charging features: Wi-Fi-enabled chargers can schedule charging during off-peak hours, track energy usage, and optimise charging when solar energy is available.

5. Installation Costs & Rebates

The cost of installing an EV charger at home varies depending on:

The type of charger (Level 1 vs Level 2).
Distance from your switchboard to the parking location.
Whether electrical upgrades are needed.
Any smart or solar-compatible features you choose.

While it’s an upfront investment, some states and councils across Australia offer rebates and incentives for EV charging infrastructure. A licensed installer can help you identify what’s available in your area and factor this into your decision. Aquila Electrical provides transparent quotes and advice on potential rebates, so you know exactly what to expect before installation begins.

6. Safety & Compliance

Above all else, safety should be your top priority. An EV charger isn’t like plugging in a toaster; it’s a high-capacity electrical device that must be installed correctly. Poor installation can lead to electrical faults, fire hazards, or voided warranties.

That’s why it’s crucial to use a licensed, accredited electrician with EV charging experience. They’ll ensure:

All wiring meets Australian standards.
Safety devices like circuit breakers and RCDs are correctly installed.
The charger is compatible with your EV and charging cables.

Trust Aquila Electrical for safe, compliant, and fully certified EV charger installations.

Ready to Install Your EV Charger?

At Aquila Electrical, we make home EV charger installations simple. From site assessments and switchboard upgrades to choosing the right charger and setting up solar integration, we handle everything with professionalism and care.

Contact Aquila Electrical today to book your EV charger consultation and start charging smarter at home.

Final Thoughts

Installing a home EV charger makes charging your electric vehicle easier, faster, and more cost-effective. By planning carefully and choosing the right setup, you can enjoy safe, efficient charging at home for years to come.

Aquila Electrical provides professional, compliant EV charger installations, including site assessments, switchboard upgrades, and smart charging setup. Trust our team to make home charging simple, safe, and reliable.

📞 Call us on 0488 551 630

‍📍 Based in Hove, SA 5048