EV Charger Installation Guide: Everything Melbourne Homeowners Need to Know
Australia's electric vehicle revolution is well underway. With EV sales hitting record numbers and more affordable models hitting the market, many Melbourne homeowners are making the switch—and realising that home charging is essential for convenient EV ownership.
At Power Amp Electrical, we've installed hundreds of home EV chargers across Western Melbourne and Geelong. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about getting a charger installed at your home.
Why You Need a Dedicated Home EV Charger
While you can charge an EV from a standard power point, it's painfully slow—typically adding just 10-15km of range per hour. That means a full charge could take 30+ hours.
A dedicated Level 2 charger offers:
- Faster charging: 40-100km of range per hour
- Safety: Purpose-built circuits with proper protection
- Convenience: Plug in when you get home, wake up fully charged
- Smart features: Scheduled charging, energy monitoring, solar integration
For most EV owners, a home charger isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.
Types of Home EV Chargers
Level 1: Standard Power Point (2-3kW)
- Uses existing 10A outlet
- Adds ~10-15km range per hour
- No installation required
- Best for: Plug-in hybrids, occasional use
Level 2: Dedicated Wall Charger (7-22kW)
- Requires professional installation
- Adds 40-100km range per hour
- Smart features available
- Best for: Daily EV drivers
| Charger Type | Power | Range Added/Hour | Full Charge Time* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard outlet | 2.3kW | 10-15km | 30-40 hours |
| Single-phase charger | 7.4kW | 40-50km | 8-10 hours |
| Three-phase charger | 22kW | 100-120km | 2-3 hours |
*Based on 60kWh battery
Popular EV Chargers in Australia
We install all major brands. Here are the most popular options:
Tesla Wall Connector
- Power: 7-22kW (depending on supply)
- Best for: Tesla owners
- Features: Sleek design, Tesla app integration
- Price: $1,100-1,500
Zappi
- Power: 7.4-22kW
- Best for: Solar owners
- Features: Solar integration, eco modes, energy diversion
- Price: $1,500-2,000
ABB Terra AC
- Power: 7-22kW
- Best for: Universal compatibility
- Features: Robust build, commercial-grade
- Price: $1,200-1,800
Fronius Wattpilot
- Power: 7-22kW
- Best for: Fronius inverter owners
- Features: Excellent solar integration
- Price: $1,400-1,900
Not sure which charger suits your needs? Contact us for a recommendation based on your vehicle, solar setup, and charging requirements.
What Affects Installation Cost?
Several factors influence the total cost of your EV charger installation:
1. Distance from Switchboard
The further your parking spot from your switchboard, the more cable required. A garage attached to your house is typically cheapest; a detached garage or driveway may require trenching.
2. Switchboard Capacity
Older switchboards may need upgrading to handle the additional load. Signs you might need an upgrade:
- Ceramic fuses (no circuit breakers)
- No spare slots for a new circuit
- Panel installed before 2000
Learn more about switchboard upgrades.
3. Single Phase vs Three Phase
Most Australian homes have single-phase power, which limits charging to ~7.4kW. If you have three-phase power (or can get it connected), you can install a 22kW charger for much faster charging.
4. Charger Selection
Basic chargers cost less than smart chargers with solar integration, load management, and app control.
Typical Installation Costs
| Scenario | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple install (charger near switchboard) | $1,800-2,500 |
| Standard install (10-15m cable run) | $2,500-3,500 |
| Complex install (long run, switchboard upgrade) | $3,500-5,000+ |
Includes charger unit and installation
The Installation Process
Step 1: Site Assessment
We inspect your property to assess:
- Switchboard capacity and condition
- Electrical supply (single or three-phase)
- Proposed charger location
- Cable route options
- Any obstacles or complications
Step 2: Quote & Charger Selection
Based on the assessment, we provide:
- Detailed written quote
- Charger recommendations
- Timeline for installation
- Any upgrade requirements
Step 3: Installation Day
Typical installation takes 2-4 hours:
- Mount the charger unit
- Run cabling from switchboard
- Install dedicated circuit breaker
- Connect and commission charger
- Test charging with your vehicle
Step 4: Handover
We provide:
- Demonstration of charger operation
- App setup (if applicable)
- Certificate of Electrical Safety
- Warranty documentation
Do You Need a Switchboard Upgrade?
Your switchboard may need upgrading if:
- ✗ You have ceramic fuses instead of circuit breakers
- ✗ No safety switches (RCDs) installed
- ✗ No spare circuit breaker slots
- ✗ Switchboard is over 25 years old
- ✗ Existing circuits are near capacity
A switchboard upgrade typically adds $1,500-2,500 to the project but ensures your home's electrical system is safe and future-proof.
Read more: When to Upgrade Your Switchboard
Charging with Solar
If you have solar panels, you can significantly reduce (or eliminate) charging costs by charging during the day when your panels are generating.
Smart chargers like Zappi and Fronius Wattpilot can:
- Automatically use excess solar production
- Switch between solar-only and grid charging
- Optimise charging based on electricity rates
- Track energy usage via app
Even without a smart charger, you can use a timer to charge during peak solar hours.
Learn more about energy efficiency solutions.
Government Incentives
Check for current incentives:
- Solar Victoria: Occasionally offers EV-related rebates
- Electricity retailer tariffs: Many offer EV-specific rates
- Fringe Benefits Tax exemption: For eligible EVs (employer-provided)
Incentives change regularly—ask us about current offers when you request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an EV charger myself?
No. All electrical work in Victoria must be performed by a licensed electrician. DIY installation is illegal and dangerous.
How long does installation take?
Most installations are completed in 2-4 hours. Complex installations requiring switchboard upgrades may take a full day.
Will it increase my electricity bill?
Yes, but significantly less than petrol costs. Charging an EV costs roughly $15-25 per 400km (depending on electricity rates) compared to $60-80 for petrol.
Can I charge in the rain?
Yes. All EV chargers we install are rated for outdoor use and safe in wet conditions.
Do I need three-phase power?
No. Single-phase 7.4kW charging is sufficient for most drivers, adding 40-50km per hour—plenty to fully charge overnight.
Flexible Payment Options
Installing an EV charger is an investment in convenience and savings. Power Amp Electrical offers interest-free finance through Brighte for eligible customers.
- 0% interest payment plans
- Terms from 6 months to 5 years
- Quick online approval
- No deposit required
A $3,000 installation could be just $58/week over 12 months with no interest.
Ready to Install Your Home EV Charger?
Power Amp Electrical installs EV chargers across Western Melbourne and Geelong. We work with all vehicle brands and charger manufacturers.
What's included:
- Free phone consultation
- On-site assessment
- Detailed written quote
- Professional installation
- Certificate of Electrical Safety
- Ongoing support
Get started today:
📞 Call Josh on 0473 344 634
Power Amp Electrical is a licensed electrical contractor (REC-34500) serving Western Melbourne and Geelong. All installations comply with Australian Standards and include Certificates of Electrical Safety.
