Last updated 14th July 2026
Buying an electric vehicle is the easy part. Working out how to charge it at home, and which charger actually suits your setup, is where most people get stuck.
This guide covers the basics. If you already know what type of charger you want, use the links below to jump straight to the relevant page.
Find out what EV charger rebates are available in your state on our EV Charger Rebates page
The Three Types of EV Chargers
Not all chargers are the same. The main difference is speed, and speed determines how useful a charger is for your daily life.
The charging speeds listed below are approximate. How fast your EV actually charges depends on four things:
- The battery capacity of your vehicle
- The charger’s power output
- Your vehicle’s onboard charging capacity
- Whether your home runs on single-phase or three-phase power
Level 1 — Standard outlet
Plugs into a regular 230V household socket. No installation needed, and most EVs come with a Level 1 cable included.
The catch is speed. You’ll get around 10–20km of range per hour. That’s fine for a light daily commute, but won’t fully recharge a modern EV overnight.
Level 2 — Dedicated home charger
This is what most Australian EV owners install. It requires a dedicated 230V circuit and a licensed electrician. The difference in speed is significant though: 40–130km of range per hour, with a full charge typically achieved overnight. Level 2 chargers also support smart features: scheduled charging, solar integration, and energy monitoring.
If you’re serious about EV ownership, this is the charger to get.
Level 3 / DC Fast Charging
The fastest option by a long way. At a standard DC fast charger, most EVs charge to 80% in 20–30 minutes. DC fast chargers run on high-voltage DC power, which makes them expensive to install and impractical for home use.
You’ll find them at public charging stations, service stations, and commercial locations along major travel routes.
How to choose
Three questions narrow it down quickly:
Do you have solar panels? A smart Level 2 charger with solar diversion will charge your car from your own generation rather than the grid, saving money every time you plug in.
Do you drive a Tesla? Tesla’s Wall Connector integrates directly with the Tesla app and is one of the most affordable quality chargers available. Non-Tesla owners have more to consider.
How far do you drive each day? For most Australian commuters, a Level 2 charger handles everything comfortably. Level 1 only works if your daily distance is consistently low.
Where to go next
The right charger for your home depends on your vehicle, your electricity setup, and whether you have solar. Head to our Electric Vehicle Chargers for Home page for a full breakdown of brands, smart features, and what to look for.
Installing a charger at a business or commercial property? Commercial EV Chargers covers the considerations specific to workplace and fleet charging.
For help finding a qualified installer and understanding what installation involves, visit our EV Charger Installation page.
And to see what rebates and grants are currently available in your state towards the cost of a home charger, check our Australian EV Charger Rebates and Grants page, updated regularly as programs change.
Get quotes today
Solar Market connects you with qualified, experienced EV charger installers in your area. Tell us what you need and we’ll get you 2 free quotes to compare.
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