Switching to an electric car is becoming more common, and one of the smartest things you can do is install a home EV charger. It’s faster, safer, and more convenient than using a regular power point. By 2025, with more affordable EVs and better technology, setting up your own home charging station is easier than ever. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—step by step—so you can charge your car at home with confidence.
Why a Home EV Charger Makes Sense
Most electric vehicle owners charge their cars at home, usually overnight. A home EV charger, also called a wall box, gives you a full charge while you sleep. It’s much faster than plugging into a standard power point, which can take over 24 hours for some cars. A home charger can add about 35–40 kilometers of range per hour on single-phase power, which is enough for most daily driving.
Charging at home also saves money. Electricity rates are often lower at night, especially if you’re on a time-of-use tariff. If you have solar panels, you can use free solar power during the day or store it in a battery to charge your car at night.
Step 1: Check Your Electrical System
Before installing a charger, you need to know what kind of power your home has. Most Australian homes use single-phase power, which supports chargers up to 7kW. If you have three-phase power, you can install a faster charger up to 22kW, which adds up to 130km of range per hour.
You can check your switchboard to see how many main switches you have. One switch means single-phase; three switches mean three-phase. An electrician will need to install a dedicated circuit from your switchboard to the charger. This keeps the system safe and prevents overloading other appliances.
Older homes may need an electrical upgrade, especially if the switchboard is outdated. This could include adding a new circuit or upgrading the main panel. A licensed electrician will assess your system and let you know what’s needed.
Step 2: Choose the Right Location
The best place for your EV charger is where you usually park—like your garage or carport. It should be close to your car’s charging port when parked, so the cable can reach easily. Most chargers are wall-mounted and don’t take up much space. For example, the Tesla Wall Connector is about the size of a small tablet.
If you don’t have a garage, some chargers can be installed outdoors. Look for models with a high water resistance rating, like IP65, which means they’re protected from rain and dust. Make sure the location is safe, visible, and away from foot traffic.
Step 3: Pick the Right Charger
There are many EV chargers on the market, so choose one that fits your needs. Key features to consider include:
- Power output: 7kW for single-phase, up to 22kW for three-phase.
- Smart features: Wi-Fi connectivity lets you track charging, set schedules, and get alerts through an app.
- Solar compatibility: Some chargers, like the Myenergi Zappi, can use excess solar power to charge your car, making it even cheaper to run.
- Cable type: Tethered chargers come with a built-in cable, while untethered ones require you to use your own.
Popular brands in Australia include Tesla, Chargefox, Zappi, and JET Charge. Prices range from $800 to $2,000 for the unit, depending on features.
Step 4: Hire a Licensed Electrician
Only a licensed electrician should install your EV charger. Choosing Our EV Charging Station Installation Expert is a critical step to ensure a safe and proper installation. They will run the wiring, connect the circuit, and make sure everything meets safety standards. Installation costs vary based on complexity—like how far the charger is from the switchboard—but expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,800 on top of the charger price.
The whole process usually takes a few hours. Once installed, the electrician will test the system and show you how to use it. You’ll also get a compliance certificate, which is important for insurance and resale.
Step 5: Start Charging and Save
After installation, you can start charging right away. Most people plug in when they get home and set the charger to run during off-peak hours. Smart chargers can automatically charge when electricity is cheapest or when solar power is available.
Over time, you’ll notice lower fuel and maintenance costs. Electric cars have fewer moving parts, so they need less servicing. Charging at home also means no more trips to the petrol station.
What If You Live in an Apartment?
If you live in an apartment, talk to your strata or owners corporation about installing a charger. Some newer buildings already have EV-ready infrastructure. In older buildings, it may be more complex and require shared costs, but it’s still possible with the right support.
Final Thoughts
Installing an EV charger at home in 2025 is a smart move for any electric car owner. It’s safe, fast, and cost-effective. With the right charger and a licensed electrician, you can have your own charging station up and running in no time. As more people switch to electric vehicles, having a home charger will become a normal part of everyday life—just like charging your phone.
By planning ahead and understanding the steps, you can make the switch smoothly and enjoy all the benefits of driving electric.