Lowest Price Policy^
Free delivery* with
4 hour Click & Collect
Easy in-store Returns
Lighting & Electrical
How to charge your EV at home
How to use a public EV charging station
How to use a public EV charging station
Overview
Using a public EV charging station is a handy skill to have, especially when you're on the go. Whether you're heading out on a road trip or simply topping up your car battery while running errands, this guide will walk you through the process, step by step.
Safety tip: Always wear appropriate safety equipment, including safety glasses, ear protection and a dust mask. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any tools or hardware you’re using.
Tools and materials
Steps
Find a nearby charger
Before you can charge your EV, you’ll need to locate a nearby public EV charging station. Most electric vehicles come with built-in navigation systems that can direct you to the nearest charger, or you can use a dedicated EV charging app on your smartphone. These apps are useful for checking which chargers are compatible with your vehicle and whether they’re currently available, saving you time and helping you plan ahead.
Park and check the charger type
When you arrive at the EV car charging station, park so that your vehicle’s charging port aligns comfortably with the charger. Public charging bays are usually well signposted and easy to identify. Take a moment to check what type of charger is available. It might be a fast charger, which is ideal for a quick top-up, or a standard charger, which takes longer but works well if you're staying in the area for a while. Public chargers may have tethered cables already attached or socket-only units where you’ll need to use your own cable. Make sure you’re familiar with your vehicle’s connector type so you can plug in without fuss.
Connect and start your charging session
Now it’s time to plug in. If the charger has a tethered cable, simply connect it to your vehicle’s charging port. If it doesn’t, use your own cable to connect the charger and your EV. Once everything is securely connected, follow the on-screen instructions. Most public EV chargers will ask you to tap a payment card, use a mobile app, or sign in to a member account. Some networks require you to set up an account and preload a balance in advance, so it’s a good idea to check this before you head out. Once payment is confirmed, the charging session will begin automatically.
Monitor your charging progress
While your vehicle charges, you’ll usually see a display showing how much energy is being delivered and how long the session is expected to take. This information may be shown on the charger’s screen or through an app linked to the network. You don’t have to stay with your car during charging, but it’s handy to keep an eye on the app so you know when your vehicle is nearly done.
Stop charging and disconnect
Once you’re ready to continue your journey, you can end the charging session using the app or by pressing the stop button on the charger’s screen. Unplug the cable from your vehicle—if you used your own, remember to store it safely back in your car. If you used a tethered cable, return it to the charger’s holder. Finally, double check your EV’s dashboard to confirm that charging has stopped, and you’re ready to hit the road.
Now that you know how to use a public EV charging station
More D.I.Y. Advice
Health & Safety
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.