Electric vehicle ownership is growing quickly across Australia, and more Preston households are choosing the convenience of charging at home. A properly installed charger means faster charging, lower costs, and smarter control over when and how you power your car.
What To Expect During The Installation
Installing an EV charger is not a DIY task. It must be carried out by a licensed electrician who understands local regulations, safety standards, and how to design a system that can handle the load.
Site Assessment
The electrician will walk through your property to identify the best position for the charger, looking at the distance to the switchboard, possible cable paths through ceilings, walls or under floors, and whether the location suits the way you usually park your car.
Electrical Capacity
Your switchboard is checked for both load capacity and physical space. Some homes may require a switchboard upgrade or even a move to a three-phase supply to ensure enough power is available now and into the future.
Install A Dedicated Circuit
EV chargers need their own circuit to operate safely and reliably. A dedicated cable is run from the switchboard or nearest sub-board directly to the charger, reducing the risk of overloading existing household circuits.
Mounting The Charger
The unit is securely fixed at a practical height in your garage or carport, with neat cable management so it is safe and easy to use. Outdoor installations require weather-rated units.
Wiring And Connections
The charger is connected to its dedicated circuit with correct cable sizing, residual current protection and an appropriate breaker. Some installations also include an isolator switch near the charger to make servicing easier.
Internet Connection
Smart chargers need a reliable internet to enable monitoring and control. A wired Ethernet link is more dependable than Wi Fi and avoids common issues when homeowners change their router or password.
Testing And Calibration
Once installed, the system is tested for safety and performance. This includes confirming the charger draws power correctly, checking that RCD protection works, and ensuring apps or smart features are operating as intended.
Integration Options
Many chargers today go beyond simple plug and charge. With the right setup, you can connect your EV charger into your wider home energy system:
With Solar
The charger can follow your excess solar generation using current transformers, a smart meter, or apps like Charge HQ. This allows your EV to soak up spare solar during the day instead of exporting it back to the grid.
With A Home Battery
You can decide whether the charger works with your home battery or remains separate. Integration can help coordinate energy use, while isolating it prevents the battery from discharging into the EV. The best choice depends on your household’s energy patterns.
Smart Charging
Most modern chargers come with an app that lets you schedule charging during off-peak hours, track costs, and monitor usage. Hardwired internet makes these features more reliable, while scheduling ensures you are always charging at the lowest possible rate.
Getting Started In Preston
Installing an EV charger is an investment in long-term convenience, safety, and efficiency. With the right design, you can charge faster, reduce costs, increase reliability, and take full advantage of solar power when available.
Forefront Electrical and Communications provides expert EV charger installations in Preston, combining local knowledge, tailored advice, and professional workmanship that always meets strict Australian standards.
Talk to Forefront Electrical and Communications today to get started with your EV charger installation in Preston and enjoy a smarter way to power your vehicle.
