Best place to install an EV home charger

Key factors for best EV charger location

For most households, the ideal location for an EV charger is close to where the EV is normally parked, such as inside a garage or beside a driveway or carport.

Access to power supply

A dedicated circuit is usually required between your switchboard and the EV charger. Proximity to the power supply helps minimise installation complexity and cost. Usually, within 20 metres between charger and switchboard is recommended.

Home EV charging can place a significant additional load on an electrical system. Your electrician may need to assess whether the switchboard or electricity supply requires upgrading, or whether load management could help manage electricity demand.

If you have rooftop solar, you may also want to discuss whether your charger can be configured to make greater use of electricity generated by your solar system.

Weather exposure

Outdoor locations need water-resistant equipment and might require extra protection, such as a unique cover or awning. Carports need careful consideration too. EV chargers installed outdoors should have a suitable water resistance rating (e.g. IP65).

Security

An EV home charger could be a target for vandalism if positioned close to the street. If visible from the street, a lockable charger requiring authentication is recommended. Also consider lighting around the area if the charger is positioned outdoors.

Cable issues

EV chargers usually have fixed cable lengths, varying according to the product (5m, 6.5m, 7.3m, etc.). Some chargers have cables tethered to the unit, while others are untethered (using a socket).

Depending on the model, its charging port may be at the front, rear or side. Think about how you usually park and whether the charging cable will comfortably reach the port without being pulled tight.

Charging cables shouldn't create an obstruction or trip hazard. Ideally, your charger should be positioned so its cable can run directly to the vehicle without crossing walkways or areas regularly used by people.

This is particularly important if you park on the street. Running a charging cable across a public footpath can create accessibility and safety issues and may be subject to council requirements. If you don't have off-street parking, check with your local council before considering any charging arrangement that could affect public land.

Connectivity

Smart EV home chargers such as the Tesla Gen 3 Wall Connector and myenergi Zappi often have a wireless sensor and remote monitoring capability that needs an internet connection, so consider locating the unit within range of your home Wi-Fi.

Future needs

It can pay to think beyond the EV you own today. You might buy a vehicle with its charging port in a different position, add a second EV to the household, or change where vehicles are parked. Where practical, choose a charger location that can comfortably reach different parking positions rather than one designed around a single vehicle.

Choosing an EV charger that can integrate with renewable energy and battery storage systems is also important if you may add a rooftop solar system to your household down the track.

More: How much solar energy do I need to charge my EV?

Where should you install an EV charger at home?

Is the garage the best place for an EV charger?

A secure, enclosed garage is often the ideal position for an EV home charger. It provides protection from the weather and generally makes it easier to keep the charging cable neatly stored when it isn't being used.

Most chargers are designed for easy wall mounting, but the load on the wall will vary according to the unit and whether cables are tethered. Check the manufacturer's specifications and consult with a qualified tradesperson if there are any doubts over the structural integrity of the wall where the EV charger and cables might be located.

A licensed electrician experienced in EV charger installations can assess your switchboard, existing electrical capacity and proposed charger location before installation. They must adhere to Australian electrical standards that cover enclosed areas housing EV charging equipment.

Pros

• Protected from weather and potential vandalism.
• Easy access to vehicle and charging equipment.
• Typically closer to existing electrical infrastructure.

Cons

• May require extensive electrical work if garage is detached.
• Limited to homes with adequate garage space.

Carport

A carport that offers protection from the elements but which is still close to the home is often considered a prime location for an EV charger.

Pros

• Some degree of weather protection, depending on the carport design.
• Usually close to existing power supply and switchboard.
• Various options for EV charger mounting (eg. wall mounting or support post).

Cons

• May be exposed to weather, limiting charger options to those with a higher water resistance rating (eg. IP65 or higher) or requiring additional protective housing.
• Less secure than a fully enclosed garage (charger with security features recommended).

Driveway

The driveway can be a convenient location for an EV charger on some properties, but does bring a number of drawbacks.

Pros

• Offers flexible positioning of the charger, such as a freestanding post or external wall.
• Convenient if your driveway is the most accessible or only regular parking option.
• Easy to share with other EVs if you are limited by a single car garage or carport.

Cons

• Fully exposed to weather, requiring high water resistance rating, durable cables and possibly a protective housing for the charging unit.
• May need bollards, cable covers, signage etc to protect charger and avoid trip hazards. Overall costs may also increase.

Shared access spaces

A freestanding charger in a convenient location away from the main building might be the best option for homes that have multiple parking areas, shared access spaces and large open driveways.

Pros

• May be suitable for dual-occupancy dwellings or multi-car households.
• Flexibility in positioning, especially where the charger can be placed between two cars.
• Suitable for homes with limited wall space.

Cons

• Expect higher installation costs (trenching, wiring, mounting, etc).
• May require council approval for boundary installations.

Apartment buildings

EV charging areas at new apartment buildings and multi-unit developments are becoming more common in parallel with the increased uptake of electric cars.

Property owners and tenants can discuss their options with the owners corporation or strata manager, but the ideal location will be one where all residents can access the charger. It could also be set up as a smart charging system that can monitor usage and distribute costs among residents.

Pros

• The charger could be set up as part of a communal charging network.
• May be eligible for government incentives.
• Can add value and future-proof the property.

Cons

• Requires strata/body corporate approval.
• May involve complex metering or billing arrangements.

As you can see, there's a lot to consider when planning where to locate an EV charger. The charger's safe positioning and installation is paramount, so it's worth seeking professional advice from a licensed electrician experienced in this field.

Get professional advice before installing an EV charger

Planning the installation carefully can help make charging at home safer, easier and better suited to your household now and into the future. Get professional advice from a licensed team that can assess your property and electrical system.

More: How to prepare your home for an electric car charger