October 2023
Industry Tips Revealed: The Secret To Optimising Your EV Charger
Written by Kerry Mullany
We’re glad you are here, because we’re about to save you time (using your charger) and money (installing and purchasing it).
According to the Electric Vehicle Council's annual State of EVs report, electric cars have made up 8.4 per cent of all new car sales for 2023. As the world leans towards sustainability and clean energy, the importance of efficient and quality EV chargers cannot be overstated.
In this article, we'll unveil three transformative tips and a game-changing hack to elevate your EV charging experience. Plug in and read on!
Tip 1: Choose Wisely and Save Big
You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the perks of a home EV Charger.
Here's a breakdown of your charging options:
1. Basic Cable Option:
The cable that comes with your electric car purchase. Think of it as a basic extension cord. It's less efficient than a dedicated Home EV Charger.
2. Smart Home EV Charger:
An affordable charger that delivers on all fronts: fast, safe, and easy charging. And here's the best part: we've discovered a loophole that maximises its value (more on this soon).
3. High-End EV Charger:
A premium option with a hefty price tag, even before installation. It might boast of advanced features, but many might remain unused.
Our Recommendations
Skip the Basic Cable: Once you understand the advantages of a dedicated home EV charger, you'll never settle for the basic cable.
Rethink the High-End Option: This charger might be more about show than practicality. But if you're keen on impressing tech-savvy neighbours and have the budget, it might be your pick.
Embrace the Smart Home EV Charger: This is where affordability meets functionality. Chargers in this category, like Smart Energy’s EV Charger package, are not only reasonably priced but also compatible with special energy plans, unlocking features usually reserved for pricier models.
Tip 2: Leverage Energy Plans to Access Special Features
Signing up for a specialised energy plan opens up a realm of benefits that can supercharge your EV charging experience and save you money.
Take, for instance, the plan offered by Amber Electric.
Set Charging Schedules:
With the Amber app monitor live wholesale electricity prices, and take advantage of off-peak rates when electricity costs are lower. This can significantly reduce your charging costs over time.
Monitor Energy Usage:
Keep track of your EV's energy consumption in real-time, using the Amber app. Helping you explore ways to be more energy-efficient.
Wholesale Electricity Rates:
Amber Electric reward their customers for investing in green powered home technology such as EV Chargers, with real-time, wholesale electricity rates. Pay for energy at the rate it's worth as a thank you for supporting clean power.
Utilise Renewable Energy:
If you have solar panels, Amber helps you harness your clean energy to charge your EV when the sun is shining. The Amber app can also help you use clean energy from the grid when it's available, reducing your carbon footprint and expenses.
Load Shifting for Energy Efficiency:
With Amber's comprehensive energy consumption monitoring, you can strategically distribute your household electricity use throughout the day to prevent system overload and reduce energy bills. For example, using your EV charger during times when other high-energy appliances in your home, such as air conditioners and electric water heaters, are not running.
Distance Charging:
Say goodbye to range anxiety. Make it a habit to plug in your EV regularly, ensuring it's always ready for the road. Lithium-ion batteries used in EVs tend to have a longer lifespan when they are not subjected to extreme low or high states of charge. With Amber, once your EV is fully charged, the system smartly redirects power, ensuring battery longevity.
Tip 3: Trust the Experts for Installation
No matter which home EV charger you opt for, professional installation is key.
Peace of Mind
Not only does it save you time, but it also gives you peace of mind that the job has been done safely and correctly ro optimise performance.
Certified Installer
If you're hiring an installer, ensure they have the necessary certifications. Your EV charger installer is obliged to provide you with an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC) after the work.
Smart Energy's Hassle-Free Process
While online prices for hardware might seem attractive, remember to account for installation costs, which can exceed a thousand dollars. Smart Energy ensures a hassle-free installation with qualified local experts included with your purchase, so you can focus on the road ahead.
Ready to Revolutionise Your EV Experience?
With Smart Energy’s top-notch EV chargers and Amber’s specialised energy plans, elevating your EV journey is just a plug away. Say goodbye to range anxiety, enjoy rapid charging, save on energy bills, and play your part in crafting a greener future, one charge at a time.
20,000+ happy customers across Australia.
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