How to charge your electric car at home in Australia and NZ
Affordable, solar-aware home EV charging is easy
So you've just taken delivery of your first electric car? Congratulations!
We've been supporting Australian and New Zealand drivers on their transition to renewable EV charging since 2015.
While the world of electric vehicles and EV charging can be confusing, we're here to provide fast, affordable and eco-aware EV charging solution for home.
How to get started charging your electric car at home:
1. Select one of the quality EV Chargers from our range.
2. Consider if you want to charge exclusively from solar or want to enjoy advanced scheduling features to take full advantage of cheap rate overnight electricity - the zappi is Australia's number 1 smart solar charger
3. Decide if you'd like your own sparky to install or if you'd like us to take care of this for you. Expert installation is key for safe and durable home charging that you can rely on for years to come. Our installers are specialists in EV home charging.
Plus, we offer expert installation anywhere in Australia
Can I really use any electrician to install my home EV Charger?
Technically yes, and we really don't mind if you do you use an electrician that you know and trust to install your charger. However, most EV Wallboxes do require a detailed level of product knowledge to commission, setup and connect. If you are looking for an electrician with EV charging experience, we invite you to request an obligation free installation quote.
The best selection of Electric EV Car Chargers in Australia.
Can't I just use the portable EVSE EV Charger Supplied with my Electric Car?
Most electric cars are supplied with a portable charger - or more accurately Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) - which you'll usually find in the boot upon purchase.
So the short answer is that you can use the portable EVSE charger to charge your car but it will be slow.. like 40 hours slow.
Are there any benefits of a Portable EVSE or Granny Charger?
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Usually free with your electric car.
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It fits neatly into your boot.
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Just plug into any General Power Outlet or GPO
Disadvantages of a Portable Granny EVSE Car Charger:
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The EVSE means you'll be able to charge your EV at home, but it's the slowest way to top up.
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Your home wiring may not be sufficiently rated or safe to supply and sustain the amps of current for the many hours of EV charging.
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You may not have a power socket close enough for the length of your EVSE. And use of extension cables are definitely not recommended!
How long to charge my electric car with a portable EVSE or EV charger at home?
The time to charge your electric car in Australia on a portable EVSE will depend on how big the battery is in your car. If you have a Nissan LEAF or early BMW i3 it will take around 10-12 hours to charge from flat. Whereas if you have a larger battery in your car such as in a MG ZS EV or BYD Atto 3 it may take as long as 35+ hours.
So overall, the portable EVSE granny charger supplied with your car is OK as a short term solution it’s unlikely to be practical in the longer term as the charge rate will be painfully slow.
Unless you have a power outlet or GPO in exactly the right location where you park your EV which also matches the location of your charge port on your car then plugging in every day will very quickly become a chore.
Because easy charging options are the key to a great EV driving experience, we recommend Level 2 charging at home with the installation of a eco-smart, solar-connected myenergi zappi which uses your self-generated renewable power to charge your electric vehicle.