When on the hunt for a home EV charger, navigating the market for the right one requires some careful consideration. Although essentially, they all do the same thing, EV chargers come in all shapes, sizes and speeds. Some may be as simple as plug-and-play. Others come with a variety of high-tech features and functionalities. Then there are EV chargers that are solar-ready and compatible with your home solar set-up.
To help you make the right choices, here are all the key factors to consider so you can pick the perfect EV charger that aligns with your needs and lifestyle. For instant advice and recommendations, check out our handy Charger Chooser quiz.
Assess your home EV charging needs
To start, consider your driving habits, EV model and budget to help determine the charging speed you require. Residential EV chargers come in two speeds, standard single-phase 7kW or faster three-phase 22kW. Which speed you can install will depend on your home’s power supply, if you have a three-phase supply and do lots of driving or have long-range EV, a 22kW charger would be the smarter option.
According to Climate Choices, a 7kW charger will add up to 40km of range per hour, while a 22kW charger will add up to 130km of range per hour.
In terms of compatibility, almost all chargers on the market are compatible with every EV model, so finding one to suit your specific vehicle should not be a challenge. However, it’s still essential to ensure compatibility by checking the manufacturer’s recommendations and any specific requirements of your EV model.
When planning the installation of the charger, it’s essential to consider factors such as weather protection, accessibility and space availability. These considerations will help determine the ideal location for installation, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, wall-mounted, or on a pedestal. Outdoor installations require chargers with weatherproofing features to withstand the elements, while indoor installations may prioritise aesthetics and space efficiency.
Consider smart features
When selecting a charger, consider whether you prefer a simple model without app compatibility and monitoring capabilities or if you desire a more high-tech option with an array of smart features that can greatly enhance convenience, efficiency and give you more control over your charging experience.
Smart chargers often come equipped with WiFi connectivity, allowing you to remotely monitor and manage your charging sessions through a mobile app or web portal. This enables you to schedule charging times during off-peak hours, take advantage of utility rate plans and even receive notifications when charging is complete or if there are any issues. Some advanced smart chargers also offer insights into your charging habits and energy consumption.
Do you have solar?
One of the most powerful ways to save money while reducing your home’s emissions is by pairing your EV charger with a home solar power system. If you do have panels installed, it is wise to invest in a charging solution that is designed to maximise your solar system.
By harnessing clean, renewable energy to charge your electric vehicle, a solar-ready EV charger will minimise reliance on the grid, reduce electricity costs and further decrease your carbon footprint.
This integrated approach not only maximises the environmental benefits of driving an electric vehicle but also offers long-term savings and sustainability for your household. What’s more, many of the solar-ready EV chargers out there come with specific modes designed to only charge up when solar electricity is being generated.
Do you need help choosing a home charging set-up that’s suited to your exact requirements? Browse our range of EV chargers and discover how ActewAGL can support your transition to sustainable driving today. Find out more here.
