How Do Home EV Chargers Work?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular in Australia. Recent 2024 statistics even showed a significant spike in EV unit sales in the country. That only means an increased need for charging devices. Frequent visits to a public charging station may be inconvenient, though. But if you opt for home EV chargers, how do these work exactly?

This article will discuss EV charging, its charger types, and how to choose the best charging solution for your home.

What is an Electric Vehicle?

To understand how home EV chargers work, we explain what makes an electric vehicle run first. It has three main parts: a battery pack, an electric motor, and a controller.

The battery stores the electrical energy. The motor then converts this stored electricity to mechanical energy, making the wheels work. Finally, the controller is the brain of your EV that controls and coordinates everything, ensuring the vehicle works efficiently.

After continuous use, the battery will eventually run out of stored electricity, making the motor and controller stop working. Regular charging is then necessary to make your EV work again.

How Does a Home EV Charger Work?

Charging your EV at home is like charging a mobile phone. You only need a cable and charging device to connect your EV to a power outlet. Electric vehicles have charging units that work with 240-volt sockets. That means regular power outlets at home can charge your EV.

Home EV charging is not only convenient. It is also less expensive than using a public charging station. However, it can take over 8 hours to fully charge your EV.

What are the Types of Home Electric Vehicle Chargers?

Currently, there are four levels of EV charging in Australia. Levels 1 and 2 are suitable for home EV charging.

Level 1: Wall Socket Charging

Level 1 EV charging is the simplest and cheapest method. It plugs a 240-volt home EV charger into a standard wall socket. That means it’s portable, and you don’t need to modify your home or charging station. Also, the charger usually comes with the car upon purchase, allowing every EV owner to use this charging option.

However, because of the limitation of home wall sockets, Level 1 charging output is low. Most models may take 24 hours to reach 80% battery charge. High-end EVs take about 11 hours to charge their battery pack to full. Extension cords are generally not for Level 1 charging due to high amperage conditions. Moreover, it can only charge one EV at a time.

These reasons explain why most EV owners reserve Level 1 charging for emergencies.

Level 2: Home Wall Box Charging

Level 2 is your best choice for better and faster home EV charging. This method can charge your EV to 80% within 4 to 5 hours. However, it is not the plug-and-play type like Level 1. A certified electrician needs to wire a dedicated EV charging box directly to your electric supply.

It also requires significant preparation and assessment, like finding the best area for installation and ensuring your domestic power supply meets the requirements. That means Level 2 charging is also more complex and costly.

The best thing about Level 2, however, is you get two installation options.

1. Single Phase

This option provides a higher power output than wall socket charging while not requiring significant home wiring changes. You still need an electrician to install the box and route a dedicated cable. Ask for an electrician’s quote to ensure the charger and installation job meet your budget.

2. Three Phase

Also known as ultra-rapid chargers, three-phase EV charging boasts the highest power, providing nearly ten times the output of Level 1 charging. The cost of a three-phase charger is almost similar to a single phase. However, this option becomes more expensive due to installation costs.

Most Australian homes do not have the infrastructure for three-phase charging that commercial and industrial sites have. So, wiring a wall charger to a three-phase connector requires more work and depends on several factors, including property location and power supply type.

Consult with a qualified electrician first to discuss installation needs and cost if you prefer this option.

Which Type of EV Charger Works for Your Home?

There are two considerations when deciding which EV charger is best for you: the type of EV you own and your usual driving route or distance.

Some EVs have a smaller battery size and can quickly reach full with Level 1 charging. On the other hand, it will be more practical to use Level 2 charging for EVs with a larger battery capacity.

Similarly, if you use your EV for shorter commutes to work, for example, Level 1 charging would suffice. Consider installing a Level 2 charger if you use your EV for longer daily commutes or frequent road trips.

Make EV Ownership Easy with a Home Charger

Understanding how a home EV charger works is easy. All you need is to plug your EV charger into a power outlet.

However, remember that home EV chargers can vary. They should be compatible with your vehicle, power supply, driving requirements, and budget.

Contact Canny Electrics today to know which EV installation option is best for you! Call us on 1300 522 446.