Electric vehicles are becoming more common across Melbourne, but many drivers still aren’t sure how to set up a charger at home or on site. From power supply to property layout, there’s a lot to consider before installing a unit. This guide covers the key points for choosing the right setup, what installation involves and how to avoid common issues through proper planning and professional support.
Why EV Charger Installation Requires More Than Just a Socket
Charging an EV involves more than plugging into a power point. Dedicated chargers deliver more power faster, but they need the right wiring, protection and placement to work safely. Without a proper setup, you could overload your system or miss out on charging efficiency.
Melbourne homes and buildings vary in age and capacity. A qualified installer checks how your current setup handles the load and recommends solutions that work now and in the future.
Step-by-Step: How Installation Works
Step 1: Site Check and Power Review
The process starts with a visit from a licensed electrician. They’ll look at where you want to install the charger, how far it is from the switchboard and how much power the site can deliver.
Step 2: Product Selection
Your installer will suggest chargers that match your EV, power system and usage patterns. For most homes, a single-phase charger suits fine. Commercial setups may call for a three-phase unit to charge multiple vehicles faster.
Step 3: Installation
This includes running new cabling, fitting the charger to a wall or pole, connecting it to the switchboard and adding safety devices like RCDs. Outdoor installs will also need weatherproofing and surface mounting.
Step 4: Test and Compliance
Once connected, the electrician tests the unit, checks voltage levels and confirms compliance with all Australian electrical codes. You’ll also get a handover with tips for safe use.
Home vs Commercial Charging Setups
| Setup Type | Home EV Charging | Commercial EV Charging |
|---|---|---|
| Power Supply | Typically single-phase | Usually three-phase for quicker charging |
| Install Site | Garage, carport, driveway | Office car parks, depots, shared buildings |
| Load Demand | 1–2 vehicles | Multiple vehicles, often used daily |
| Extra Needs | Minimal, except for older homes | May involve switchboard upgrades or trenching |
What to Know About Tesla Charger Installation
Tesla’s wall connectors work differently from generic chargers. They support faster charging but need the right cabling and configuration to perform at their best. If your home has limited capacity or an older switchboard, your installer may need to adjust load settings or recommend a new circuit.
Braetex has worked with Tesla models across Melbourne and knows how to set up wall connectors safely, with full compliance and minimal fuss.
Safety First: Why Compliance Matters
Poorly installed chargers can overheat, trip circuits or pose risks in wet areas. That’s why all EV charger installations in Melbourne must follow AS/NZS standards. This covers everything from wiring size to circuit protection and distance from water points.
Using a licensed installer ensures the work is done to code. You also get reassurance that the charger will hold up under regular use, especially in multi-vehicle or shared settings.
Why Melbourne EV Owners Work With Braetex
- Licensed electricians: Every installer is trained, qualified and familiar with Victorian regulations.
- Local experience: Braetex knows how to work with Melbourne’s housing stock, from heritage builds to new developments.
- Flexible setups: From single-car homes to large fleet sites, Braetex matches the installation to the user’s needs.
- Certified results: All jobs are completed to standard with full documentation and support. Braetex holds ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 certifications and is accredited by the Clean Energy Council, adding another layer of quality and compliance to every install.
Instead of a generic approach, Braetex handles each install based on the property, the car and the client’s goals.
Planning Ahead: Charging for More Than One Vehicle
EV ownership is growing, and many homes and workplaces won’t stop at just one car. If you’re planning a second EV down the track, visiting family members or staff with their own vehicles, planning ahead makes a difference.
A well-designed system can allow for future expansion, either by installing a charger with load-sharing features or by leaving space in the switchboard for an extra unit. Commercial sites, in particular, benefit from load management strategies that keep energy use steady while still meeting demand.
Braetex takes future use into account from the start. This means you won’t need to rewire or upgrade again in a year’s time just to meet new needs.
Wrapping Up
Installing an EV charger is a job that calls for technical knowledge, local experience and proper licensing. Whether you’re setting up for home use or managing a growing business fleet, it’s worth getting it done properly from the start.
To speak with a licensed local team about EV charger installation in Melbourne, get in touch with Braetex today.
