Tips for safely charging an EV at home

Potential electric vehicle owners need to determine if their properties are suitable for home-charging.

So says EV advocacy group Drive Electric.

Charging at home is the easiest way to power up an EV, board member Eric Pellicer says.

“The good news is many homes should allow EV charging. But often a standard electrical socket on its own isn’t safe, and specialist EV supply

equipment (EVSE) is needed.

“We recommend getting a home assessment done by a qualified professional.”

Electricians are also undertaking an educational process, with Master Electricians running a series of workshops to help inform its members about likely changes to industry guidelines.

Pellicer is encouraged that some EV dealers offer home assessments for customers.

“This kind of service makes sure customers have the information they need when purchasing an EV.”

Drive Electric charging expert Nigel Broomhall recommends EVSE which is WorkSafe compliant because they have a number of built-in safety features.

“Quality chargers are rated for use in heavy rain, ice, snow and excess heat, and will not put you at risk of electrocution,” he says.

“Some cheap products warn you not to charge in the rain – this is not a good sign.

“Professionally installed EVSE also includes the right residual current device (RCD) protections, and a master switch so the charger can be turned off if you

have any issues.”

The key to selecting the right charger is finding out the size of the on-board AC charger on the vehicle, Broomhall says.

The on-board charger tells you how much energy the car can take in an hour.

“EVs are fantastic, and having your own ‘gas station’ means you always start the day full,” Broomhall says. “But with this comes the need to think carefully about the charger you choose, and how you use it.

“A quality EVSE which is WorkSafe compliant has a number of built-in safety features that are designed to keep you and your family safe.”

Broomhall, who is also managing director of EVSE supplier Chargemaster, says there are other tips EV owners need to be aware of when charging at home.

These include never using extension cords with any EVSE equipment, because they aren’t designed to handle the large amounts of electricity required to top up an EV.

“They can melt, catch fire or even electrocute you.

“Also, be careful with adaptors. Unless the adaptor has been approved by the charger manufacturer then it is not WorkSafe compliant.”