Benefits and Key Considerations When Installing an EV Charger

Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining traction in Australia, let alone here in Tasmania, which has made the installation of EV chargers a practical addition to many homes.

EV chargers aren't just about convenience however - as the right EV charger can enhance sustainability, reduce costs, and future-proof your property for years to come.

If you're considering an EV charger installation in Hobart or Tasmania, understanding the benefits and key factors involved can save you time, money and ultimately - energy.

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In this post, we break down the key benefits and considerations when choosing and installing an EV charger, including:

• How to maximise savings by using solar harvesting with compatible EV chargers
• Choosing the right charging speed and type for your driving habits
• Understanding your homes electrical capacity and potential upgrade needs
• Considering how location and cable length impact convenience
• Increasing property value and more tenants or buyers

First off, one of the main questions we get here at Rock Electrical is...

Why should I install an electric vehicle (EV) Charger?

Simply put, one of the biggest advantages of having an EV charger at home is convenience.

Instead of relying on public charging stations, you can charge your vehicle at the premises, particularly overnight or during off-peak hours.

This can lead to significant cost savings, particularly if your EV charger supports solar harvesting - which is our first tip for consideration.

"Solar harvesting is a big thing if you can charge during the day," says Josh, owner of Rock Electrical. "Instead of exporting your solar power to the grid for almost nothing, you can use this energy to charge your car."

Another reason that you might consider installing an EV charger is that it can increase the market appeal of your home, or AirBNB, rental property etc.

With the growing adoption of EVs in Australia, having a ready-to-use charger or a connection point in place is a feature that many buyers and tenants are starting to expect.

Ready to get started? Enquire today with Rock Electrical about your electric vehicle charger installation in Hobart.

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Key Factors to Consider When Installing an EV Charger

Charging Speed and Compatibility: Charging speed is determined by the type of charger installed.

Most single-phase chargers deliver7–7.5kW, ideal for daily EV use. High-end vehicles like Teslas may benefit from faster, boutique chargers, but most EVs are compatible with standard units such as Zappi or Schneider chargers.

If you’re a light EV user driving less than 100 km weekly, a standard 15-amp PowerPoint may suffice. However, for busy families or frequent drivers, installing a fast charger is a worthwhile investment.

"The type of EV charger depends on your needs,"Josh explains. "If you’re using your car daily, you may need to turn it a round quickly and this has a very different charging requirement to someone who may only drive 1-2 times per week"

Key points to consider:

• Match the chargers speed to your driving habits to avoid overpaying for unnecessary features.
• Ensure the charger is compatible with your vehicles make and model.
• Plan for the future by selecting a charger that supports advanced features, like smart charging or solar harvesting.

‍Solar Harvesting and Smart Features: Solar harvesting is a key feature to consider, particularly if you have solar panels.

Many EV chargers now allow you to use excess solar energy to charge your car, which reduces the reliance on grid electricity.

Smart features, like scheduling and energy usage tracking, can also help you optimise your charging experience.

For instance, you can set the charger to operate during off-peak times when electricity costs are lower.

 Things To Keep in Mind:

• Look for chargers that can directly integrate with your solar system.
• Use smart scheduling features to save on electricity bills.
• Choose models that provide detailed energy tracking for better insights

Electrical Capacity and Installation: Before installing an EV charger, assess your home’s electrical capacity.

Older properties may require switchboard upgrades or additional wiring to support the power demands of an EV charger.

Consulting with an experienced Hobart electrician, like Rock Electrical, ensures a seamless installation process.

"When building or renovating, it’s worth specifying for an EV charger connection," adds Josh. "Even if you don’t have an EV yet, it future proofs the home and with this in mind, most if not all new builds have a connection ready to go for an EV charger install."

Important Considerations:

• Consult an electrician to evaluate your home’s current electrical capacity.
• Plan for potential upgrades to your switchboard or wiring.
• Check for local regulations or rebate programs that can reduce installation costs.

Location and Property Value: The placement of your EV charger should also be convenient for daily use.

Ideally, it should be close to your parking area with sufficient cable length to reach your car.

Well-placed chargers also boost the property’s value, especially for eco-conscious buyers or Airbnb guests looking for modern, sustainable features.

If you're interested in how EV chargers impact property value, check out our Hobart electrical vehicle installation services for more information and advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions about EV Charger considerations

What is solar harvesting, and why is it important for EV chargers?
Solar harvesting allows EV chargers to use surplus solar energy from your solar panels. This reduces reliance on grid electricity, saving money and maximising your home’s energy efficiency.

Can I install an EV charger if I live in an older home?
Yes, but you may need to upgrade your switchboard or power supply. Consult with a Hobart electrician to assess your home’s electrical capacity.

How much does it cost to install an EV charger inAustralia?
The cost varies based on the charger type and installation complexity - so it's hard to give a cost for general information. You can check out the typical EV charger installation process to learn more about what goes into an install and how this may impact price, meanwhile government incentives may also help reduce costs.

Do EV chargers increase property value?
Yes, having an EV charger or a connection point generally can make your home more appealing to buyers and tenants, particularly as EV adoption grows.

What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 charging?
Level 1 charging uses a standard power outlet and is suitable for overnight charging, while Level 2 chargers are faster and ideal for regular or high-mileage EV users.

In Conclusion

Installing an EV charger is more than just a convenience; it’s an investment in your home’s future, energy savings, and environmental sustainability.

By considering factors like solar harvesting, electrical capacity, and charger compatibility, you can optimise your setup for long-term benefits.

Whether you’re planning to install a charger now or simply future-proof your property, Rock Electrical can help you make the right choice for your needs.

Learn more about our EV charger installation in Hobart services and how to maximise the benefits of EV charging at home.