With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), more homeowners and businesses are opting to install EV chargers on-site. This move brings convenience, cost savings, and future-proofing benefits. But before you dive into installation, there are a few important things to consider to make sure you install the right charger, in the right place, and with the right power setup.
Power Requirements
The type of power supply you have directly affects how fast your vehicle charges and the efficiency of your system.
Single-Phase Power
Single phase power is common in most homes and is typically sufficient for a Level 1 charger, which is slow but works well for overnight top-ups. If you opt for a Level 2 charger with single-phase power, charging will still be slower compared to a three-phase setup.
Three-Phase Power
For faster charging, three phase power is ideal. It supports higher-powered Level 2 chargers and is perfect if you plan to charge multiple EVs or need a quicker charge. If you don’t have three-phase power, it’s worth consulting an electrician about the feasibility and cost of upgrading.
Types of EV Chargers
There are three types of EV chargers, each with varying speeds and charging capacities.
Level 1 Chargers
These are the slowest, providing 10-15 km of range per hour with 2.3-3.5 kW output. Ideal for casual users who need to top up overnight, but not recommended if you need faster charging.
Level 2 Chargers
The most common choice for homes and businesses, these offer 35-110 km of range per hour with 7-22 kW output. They provide a good balance of speed and efficiency, making them perfect for daily use.
Level 3 Chargers
Used mostly in public charging stations, these can provide 125+ km of range per hour with 25-350 kW output. While these are the fastest option, they aren’t suitable for home installations due to their high power needs.
For most residential and business setups, Level 2 chargers will likely be your best option.
Cabling and Electrical Setup
A proper electrical setup is crucial for the safe operation of your EV charger. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Cable Sizing
Depending on the charger’s power, you might need 6 mm² cables and a 32-amp circuit breaker. For more powerful chargers or longer cable runs, you may need 10 mm² cables and larger circuit breakers.
Overhead Capacity
To avoid overheating and tripping, your electrical circuit should have at least 20% headroom to handle the charger’s demands.
Switchboard Ventilation
Make sure your switchboard has adequate ventilation to prevent heat buildup, ensuring safe operation of the charger.
Tesla Certification and Installers
If you own a Tesla, you have access to Tesla Superchargers, which provide faster charging speeds than most public chargers. However, installing Tesla specific equipment requires a Tesla certified installer to ensure compliance with Tesla’s standards and to keep your warranty intact.
Regardless of your vehicle, always hire a certified installer to ensure the system is set up safely, meets local regulations, and is optimised for performance.
Best Placement for Your EV Charger
The placement of your charger will influence the installation cost and long-term efficiency.
Proximity to the Switchboard
The closer the charger is to your switchboard, the less costly and complicated the installation will be. A shorter cable run reduces material costs and installation time.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Installation
If installing outdoors, ensure your charger is weatherproof. For indoor installations, make sure there’s enough space around the charger for ventilation and heat dissipation.
Future Expansion
If you plan to add more EVs or chargers down the line, make sure your setup can handle future upgrades.
Get Your EV Charger Installed the Right Way
Proper planning and professional installation are essential for your EV charger to operate safely and efficiently. From understanding your power requirements to choosing the right charger, cabling, and placement, there’s a lot to consider.
The team at Press Power are here to guide you through every step of the EV charger installation process. From selecting the right charger to ensuring it’s installed safely and up to industry standards, we’ve got you covered.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation and start powering your EV the right way.
