Your EV is parked, your battery is low, and your phone tells you it will take hours to charge at the nearest public charger. It’s a little ironic—driving into the future, only to be stuck waiting on yesterday’s infrastructure!

A home 3 phase EV charger changes the game. Fast, reliable, and ready when you are. 

iStore EV chargers are built for Aussie homes, priced to suit real budgets, and engineered for effortless charging.

Let’s explore how to choose the best home EV charger in Australia.

What is an EV Charger?

An EV charger is a device that uses electricity from your home’s power supply to charge the battery in your electric vehicle (EV) so you can drive it.

Why a Home EV Charger Is Essential for Australian EV Owners

Public charging stations are handy in a pinch, but they’re not always practical. Queues and slow charging speeds add up to wasted time. A home EV charger puts you back in control. Just plug in overnight and wake up to a full battery. 

This convenience is even more important in suburban and regional areas of Australia, where public chargers can be few and far between. With a home charger, you’re not relying on limited infrastructure or planning trips around charge stops. Your garage becomes your personal charging station.

Then there are the long-term savings. Charging at home is often cheaper than using public stations, especially if you plug in during off-peak hours when electricity demand is lower and rates are reduced, like late at night or early in the morning. 

Pair your EV charger with rooftop solar, and you can drive on sunshine, cutting your energy costs even further and reducing your carbon footprint!

EV Charger Types

Level 1 Chargers

Home EV chargers typically use alternating current (AC) to charge vehicles. 

Level 1 AC chargers that often come with an EV plug into a standard 230-volt (V) household outlet and typically deliver up to 2.4 kilowatts (kW) of power. 

They provide a driving range of around 8–15 km per hour of charging and can take up to 20 hours to fully charge a vehicle. This slower charging rate makes them suitable for overnight charging if you drive short distances daily.

Level 2 Chargers

Level 2 AC chargers require a dedicated 240 V circuit and professional installation. They add about 30–40 km of driving range per hour and can take 4–8 hours to charge an EV fully. This faster charging speed is ideal for longer daily commutes and households with multiple EVs. 

These chargers are available in single-phase (up to 7.4 kW) or three-phase (up to 22 kW). Most homes in Australia use single-phase power, which is fast enough for overnight charging. However, if your home has three-phase power—common in newer or larger properties—you can charge even faster.

Dumb vs Smart Chargers

“Dumb” EV chargers simply deliver power to your EV. They

• Don’t have any smart features or app control.
• Are easier to install and less expensive.
• Charge at full power the moment they’re connected, regardless of electricity pricing or solar availability.
• Are suitable for EV owners needing a basic charging solution.

Smart EV chargers do much more than just charge your EV. They

• Optimise energy usage by adjusting charging times based on grid demand, solar availability, and your electricity tariff schedule.
• Reduce electricity costs thanks to their energy efficiency. 
• Connect to the internet to monitor charging in real-time, set schedules, track energy usage, and receive notifications through an app.
• Are suitable for EV owners wanting cost-effective charging or using rooftop solar.

Key Features To Look For in the Best Home EV Charger in Australia

1. Compatibility: The charger must be compatible with your EV’s plug type and charging capacity. 
2. Charging Speed: Look for a charger that matches your daily driving needs. Most Level 2 chargers offer between 7.4 kW and 22 kW, which can significantly reduce charging times compared to a standard plug.
3. Installation Requirements: Check if your home has single-phase or three-phase power. Some chargers also require a dedicated circuit or additional switchboard space, so confirm if any upgrades are needed before purchasing.
4. Affordability: Weigh up the upfront cost of the charger with the long-term value. Features like smart charging, solar integration, or load balancing may cost more upfront but can save you money over time.
5. Safety Features: Look for safety certifications, built-in protection against overvoltage or overheating, and weatherproof casing for outdoor installation. 
6. Easy to Use: The best chargers are intuitive, with app control, clear indicator lights, and simple plug-in functionality. Wall-mounted units with cable holders also keep things tidy.
7. Sustainability: If you have solar panels or plan to install them, choose a charger that supports solar optimisation. 

Apartment EV Charging and Body Corporate Considerations

Limited access to personal power supply, shared parking spaces, and a lack of installation space can make installing an EV charger in an apartment complex complicated. 

You’ll also likely need approval from your body corporate before any electrical work begins. This process may involve submitting detailed installation plans that show how costs and electricity usage will be managed, and ensuring there is no impact on other residents.

How To Install and Use a Home EV Charger

1. Hire a Licensed Electrician: Home EV charger installation must be done by a licensed electrician. They’ll assess your switchboard, wiring, and power supply, and let you know if any upgrades are needed before installation.
2. Choose the Installation Location: Most chargers are wall-mounted in a garage or carport near where your vehicle is parked. If that’s not possible, some models have pedestal or outdoor mounting options.
3. Connect and Charge: Just plug the charger into your EV, and charging will begin automatically. If you have a smart charger, you can control the start and stop times and schedule off-peak charging using an app.
4. Maintain Your Charger: Keep the unit clean, check for visible wear, and follow any guidelines from your installer or manufacturer.

Why Choose iStore for Your Home EV Charging Needs?

iStore is a proudly Australian-owned, family-run company. We’re committed to providing Aussie families with competitively priced EV chargers that don’t compromise on performance or safety. 

We believe all households should have access to renewable energy solutions. Our EV chargers support eco-conscious electric vehicle driving and charging, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

If you have an iStore hybrid inverter and solar battery as part of a solar energy system, an iStore home EV charger will seamlessly work with them to maximise energy efficiency and electricity savings when charging your EV.

Our chargers are also durable and weather-resistant, delivering reliable performance even in harsh local climates.

FAQs

What Is the Best Home EV Charger in Australia?

The best home EV charger in Australia is the one that’s compatible with your EV, offers a charging speed that suits your lifestyle, and works with your home’s power supply.

Features like solar compatibility, smart charging, and remote access can enhance usability, improve efficiency, and help lower running costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Home EV Charger in Australia?

That depends on the charger type, installation complexity, and any electrical upgrades. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $3,300, which includes the charger unit and professional installation.

Can I Charge My EV With Solar Power at Home?

Yes, you can charge your EV with solar power by connecting the charger to your rooftop solar system. A compatible EV charger can draw power directly from your solar panels, helping reduce grid reliance and charging costs.

How Long Does It Take to Charge an EV at Home?

A Level 1 charger can fully charge an EV in up to 20 hours, while a Level 2 charger can take 4–8 hours.

Ready To Upgrade to the Best Home EV Charger in Australia?

We’re not shy in saying that we have the best home EV chargers in Australia.

Why?

They’re durable, reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly!
Explore the best home EV chargers in Australia from iStore. Then, get in touch for advice or a quote by calling 1300 515 640 or filling out this online form.

Electric vehicles are taking off across Australia, from city streets to outback tracks. 

But whether you’re zipping through traffic or enjoying a road trip exploring this beautiful but remote land of ours, staying charged shouldn’t mean staying stuck.

iStore’s portable EV chargers are to the rescue! They’re affordable, high-quality, and ready to charge when you are. You’ll never be caught off guard, no matter where you’re venturing! Plus, we’re an Australian-owned brand, so you can be sure our portable EV chargers are tailored to tough Aussie road conditions.

Let’s take a closer look at these EV charging solutions.

What Is a Portable EV Charger?

If you have an electric vehicle, you’ve likely wondered, “Is there a portable electric charger option?”

The answer is yes!

A portable EV charger is a compact, plug-in device that lets you charge your EV on the move from a standard power outlet. It typically includes a charging cable, control box, and plug that connects to your car. 

Why Portable EV Chargers Are a Must-Have for Australian EV Owners

Owning an EV in Australia comes with its perks but also some challenges. 

Charging stations aren’t always where you need them. Long road trips and remote destinations can leave you wondering where your next top-up will come from. And even in the city, public chargers can be taken, out of order, or too far from home.

That’s why a portable EV charger is a game-changer. It gives you the freedom to charge wherever there’s a compatible power point: at home, a mate’s place, a holiday rental, or a powered campsite. 

Reducing your reliance on public charging stations can also save you money.

How?

• Public chargers, particularly fast ones, often cost more per kWh (kilowatt-hour) than charging at home.
• Some stations charge idle fees if your car stays plugged in after charging.
• Parking fees at some public charging locations can add to the cost.
• Home electricity rates (especially at off-peak times or if the home is on solar) are usually cheaper.

Features and Benefits of iStore’s Portable EV Chargers

As mentioned at the outset, iStore is a proud Australian-owned company. This gives us an edge over overseas competitors selling portable EV chargers here.

Our local expertise helps us deliver EV charging solutions better suited to Aussie road and weather conditions and your driving habits and expectations.

Here’s exactly what iStore portable EV chargers have to offer.

• Quality: Durable and weather-resistant.
• Competitive Pricing: Affordable without compromising on performance or safety.
• Mobility: Lightweight and compact for easy travel and storage.
• Compatibility: Works with various EV models, including popular Australian EVs.
• Safety: Built-in safety features include temperature monitoring and fault protection.
• User-Friendly: Simple plug-and-play setup, no technical know-how needed.
• Sustainability: Supports eco-conscious EV driving and charging, reducing your reliance on fossil fuels.
• Integration With iStore Solar Energy Systems: If you have an iStore hybrid inverter and solar battery as part of a solar energy system, your iStore portable EV charger will seamlessly work with them to maximise energy efficiency and electricity savings.

How to Choose the Right Portable EV Charger for Your Needs

Look out for the following features to help you choose the right EV portable charger.

• Adjustable Current: A charger with adjustable current settings lets you control the power flow and charge safely from different outlets.
• Charging Speed: A higher charge rate means less waiting time.
• Compatibility: Make sure the charger works with your EV’s make, model, and charging port type:
  • Type 1: Mostly found on older Japanese and American EVs (early Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Nissan Leaf).
  • Type 2: The standard for most modern EVs in Australia (Tesla, Hyundai, Kia, MG).
  • CCS (Combined Charging System): A fast-charging option for many newer EV models (Hyundai IONIQ 5, Tesla Model 3) that combines a Type 2 plug with two extra DC (Direct Current) pins.
• Voltage: Check that the charger’s voltage suits your car’s requirements, especially if you plan to charge from different power sources.
• Reviews: Read reviews from other EV drivers to see how the charger performs in real-world use.
• Warranty: A good warranty gives you peace of mind, so always check what’s covered and for how long.
• Customer Support: Go with a brand that’s easy to reach when you have questions. iStore offers local, expert support to help you pick the right portable charger for an EV and get the most out of it.

Safety and Maintenance

Stay safe while charging your EV by

1. Always plugging into a properly grounded power outlet. Avoid power points that are damaged or seem unsafe. When in doubt, choose well-maintained, sheltered outlets.
2. Avoiding using extension cords or adaptors unless they’re specifically rated for EV charging.
3. Not charging in wet or flooded areas. Keep the charger dry and off the ground.
4. Checking the cable and connectors for damage before each use.
5. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
6. Not modifying the charger. Don’t cut the cable, swap plugs, or try to bypass safety features.

Look after your EV portable charger by

• Storing it in a dry, cool place when not in use, preferably in a carry case.
• Wiping down the cable and connectors with a dry cloth to remove dust or moisture.
• Not kinking or tightly coiling the cable, as this can cause wear over time.
• Having it inspected by a licensed electrician or replaced if you notice any signs of fraying or overheating.

FAQs

What Is a Portable EV Charger?

A portable EV charger is a compact device that lets you charge your electric vehicle from any regular power point instead of at a fixed charging station. 

Can I Use a Portable EV Charger at Home?

A solar inverter converts DC electricity from solar panels into AC electricity, which powers a home or business. It optimises energy use, protects the solar system from faults, and manages grid interaction.

How Fast Can a Portable EV Charger Charge My Car?

Portable EV chargers are designed to work with standard power points, so you can easily charge your EV at home without installing special equipment.

Are Portable EV Chargers Safe To Carry in the Car?

The charging speed of a portable EV charger depends on its power output and your vehicle’s battery capacity.​

Level 1 chargers (1.4–3.7kW) use a standard power point and typically add 10 to 20 km of driving range per hour. They're ideal for overnight charging at home or work. ​

Level 2 chargers (7–22kW) require a dedicated circuit and can add 30 to 130 km of range per hour, depending on your EV’s configuration. 

Check your vehicle’s specifications and the charger’s capabilities to estimate charging times accurately.

Yes, portable EV chargers are safe to carry in the car. Store them in a dry, secure spot like the boot and use a carry case to protect the cable and connectors from damage.

Get Your Portable EV Charger and Stay Powered Anywhere!

No charging bay? No problem! With a portable charger for an EV in your boot, you’ve got flexibility on your side. Charge at home, on the go, or wherever the road takes you. It’s your shortcut to stress-free, reliable charging without the wait, the queues, or the what-ifs.

iStore’s portable EV chargers are built for Aussie drivers, powered by local expertise, and priced so you don’t have to think twice.

Ready to take charge of your EV experience?

Explore the best portable EV chargers in Australia from iStore. Then, get in touch for advice or a quote by calling 1300 515 640 or filling out this online form.