Bought an electric vehicle, or thinking about it? Charging at home is the cheapest and most convenient way to keep it topped up. Here’s what Perth homeowners need to know before installing a home EV charger.
Do I need a dedicated EV charger?
You can charge most EVs from a standard power point using the portable cable supplied with the car, but it’s slow, often adding only around 10 to 15 km of range per hour. A dedicated wall charger on its own circuit is faster, safer for daily use and lets you schedule charging for cheaper times.
Types of home chargers
- Single-phase 7kW charger: the most common choice for Perth homes. It typically adds around 40 to 50 km of range per hour, so most cars recharge fully overnight.
- Three-phase 11 to 22kW charger: faster charging, but only if your home has three-phase power and your car can accept it.
- Smart chargers: app control, scheduling and solar charging features to make the most of cheaper or self-generated power.
How much does a home EV charger cost?
An independent Perth cost guide puts a typical 7kW home charger at roughly $1,050 to $3,150 installed (What’s The Damage, 2026). The price depends on the charger, the cable run from your switchboard to the garage or carport, and whether your switchboard needs work.
Will my switchboard handle it?
An EV charger is a big, continuous load. Before installation we check your switchboard, supply and existing usage. Older boards with ceramic fuses or no spare capacity may need a switchboard upgrade first. We’ll tell you upfront if that’s the case.
Charging on solar or off-peak
Charging when power is cheapest makes a big difference to running costs. Synergy offers time-of-use plans with cheaper periods, including a midday period that suits homes with solar (Synergy). A smart charger can be scheduled to make the most of these times. Check Synergy’s current plans and rates before switching.
Questions to ask your electrician
- Will my switchboard and supply handle the charger?
- Where’s the best place to mount it, and how long is the cable run?
- Is the charger suited to my car and my power supply?
- Will it be on its own circuit with RCD protection?
- Do I get an Electrical Safety Certificate?
We install home EV chargers across Byford, Harrisdale, Hilbert, Southern River, Armadale and Kelmscott. Learn more about our EV charger installation service.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install an EV charger myself?
No. Wall chargers are hardwired and must be installed by a licensed electrician.
Do I need three-phase power?
No. Most Perth homes use a single-phase 7kW charger, which is plenty for overnight charging.
Can I charge from my solar panels?
Yes, with a compatible smart charger you can prioritise charging from excess solar during the day.
Ready to charge at home? Call David on 0404 241 051 or request a free, no-obligation quote. All our work is carried out by a licensed electrical contractor (EC 15388) and comes with a 3 year warranty.
