Charge Up Your Life: EV Home Charging
- Kevin Balen
- Feb 27, 2023
- 5 min read
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as people seek more environmentally-friendly transportation options.
One of the most important aspects of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is ensuring that it is properly charged.
While public charging stations are available, the most convenient and cost-effective way to charge your EV is by installing a home charging station.
In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about EV home charging.
Types of EV Charging Stations for Homes
There are three types of EV charging stations that can be installed in your home:
A. Level 1 Charging Level 1
Level 1 charging is the slowest of the three charging options, but it is also the most affordable and can be used with a standard 120V household outlet.
It typically takes about 15-30 hours to fully charge an EV using a Level 1 charger depending on the EV's battery size.
B. Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging is faster than Level 1 charging and requires a 240V outlet.
It can fully charge most EVs in 4-6 hours. Level 2 charging is the most common type of home charging solution.
C. DC Fast Charging
DC Fast Charging is the fastest of the three charging options, and can fully charge an EV in as little as 30 minutes.
DC fast charging delivers high power directly to the battery, allowing for a faster charging speed compared to AC charging, which uses an onboard charger to convert AC power to DC power.
DC fast charging is typically used for long-distance travel, while AC charging is better suited for overnight or home charging.
However, it is also the most expensive and when it comes to installing a DC Fast charger it is not an option that is explored as the electrical load requirement exceeds residential standards and needs.
DC fast chargers range from 22kW to 350kW, Tesla provides free Destination AC chargers (up to 22kW) and is priced from 63c/kWh for Superchargers (120kW or 250kW)
Installation Guide for EV Home Charging Stations
If you are considering installing an EV charging station in your home, there are a few things to keep in mind which include
A. Choosing A Location:
The location of your EV charging station will depend on a variety of factors, such as the layout of your home, the distance between your EV charger and the main switchboard or in some cases a sub-board if it is available within the property.
Sub-boards may be found within a garage, laundry cupboard or within the kitchen.
If your property is a townhouse or has a home automation system then it will be very likely to have a sub-board.
Some things to consider when choosing a location include accessibility, safety, and weather protection.
B. Electrical Requirements
Before installing a home charging station, you will need to ensure that your electrical system is capable of handling the added load.
A licensed electrician can help you determine whether any upgrades are necessary, such as a dedicated circuit, a higher amperage breaker and even in some cases an electrical upgrade from single to 3-phase may be required this will be dependent on the number of major appliances and circuits that the property has and age of the property is another factor that needs to be taken into consideration.
C. Hiring a Licensed Electrician
Within Sydney Australia, you will need to hire a licensed electrician to ensure that the installation is safe and up to code.
They can also help with any necessary electrical upgrades and obtain any required permits.
D. Obtaining Permits and Inspections
Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain permits and inspections before installing a home charging station. Your electrician can help guide you through this process and ensure that your installation meets all local regulations.
Benefits of Home Charging Stations for EVs
There are several benefits to installing a home charging station for your EV, including:
Cost Savings charging your EV at home is typically much cheaper than using public charging stations.
You also have the option of taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates to further reduce your costs.
For homeowners that have a solar PV system, it is also possible to utilise the excess solar energy that would normally be exported to the grid.
Convenience is by far one of the biggest factors in having an EV home charging station installed it allows you to charge your EV at any time, without having to worry about availability or waiting in line.
You can also use your charging station to “top off” your EV, ensuring that it is always ready to go when you are.
Environmentally-Friendly Charging your EV at home means that you are using electricity from the grid, which is becoming increasingly powered by renewable energy sources. This makes home charging a more sustainable option than using gasoline.
Increased Home Value Installing a home charging station can increase the value of your home, especially as EV ownership continues to rise. It can also make your home more appealing to potential buyers who are interested in EV ownership.
How to Charge Your Electric Vehicle at Home
Charging your EV at home is a simple process, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take certain precautions to ensure that you do not damage your EV or the charging equipment.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
Park your EV in the designated charging spot
Plug the charging cable into the EV’s charging port
Plug the other end of the charging cable into the home charging station
Turn on the charging station (if necessary)
Wait for the EV to fully charge (or until desired charge level is reached)
Unplug the charging cable from both the EV and the charging station
It is also important to follow any specific instructions for your particular EV and charging station, such as setting a charge limit or setting a charging schedule.
Installing a home charging station is an important aspect of owning an electric vehicle.
It offers several benefits, including cost savings, convenience, and sustainability.
At Pica Electrical, we understand that not only does the EV charger installation have to be completed professionally, but it also needs to be aesthetically pleasing.
We take pride in our work and understand the importance of blending the EV charger with the overall design of your home.
We take care of every aspect of the installation process, including aesthetic considerations. We treat your home as if it were our own and ensure that every detail is carefully planned and executed.
With Pica Electrical, you can be confident that your EV charger installation will not only be safe and functional but also visually appealing and seamlessly integrated into your home.
If you're ready to take the next step in EV ownership and install a home charging station, contact Pica Electrical.
Our team of licensed electricians has extensive experience installing and servicing EV charging stations, and we're here to help you make the most of your electric vehicle.
From choosing the right charging solution for your home to ensuring that it is installed safely and up to code, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Pica Electrical at 1300 653 556 or click on the link below and fill out a simple form
Pica Electrical Pty Ltd.
ACN: 622 270 384
Contractor License: 320751C
6/8 Tilley Lane Frenchs Forest NSW 2086
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