Home EV Charger Guide: How to Choose the Right Wallbox
Standard socket or wallbox, how many kW, who should install it: what to know before fitting an EV charger at home.
Charging at home is the easiest and usually the cheapest way to run an electric car. Choosing the right equipment makes all the difference. Here are the points that matter.
Standard socket, reinforced socket or wallbox?
A regular household socket works in an emergency, but it is not designed to deliver high current for hours. A reinforced socket is a safer middle step. A wallbox remains the best option: faster, safer and often controllable from an app.
How much power do you need?
- 3.7 kW: enough for low-mileage drivers who plug in every night.
- 7.4 kW: the sweet spot on a single-phase supply; a mid-size battery refills overnight.
- 11 kW and above: needs a three-phase supply and a compatible car.
There is no point aiming too high: the car’s onboard charger limits how much AC power it can accept anyway.
Installation: a job for a professional
A wallbox should be fitted by a qualified electrician, with its own dedicated protection in the fuse box. This is also often a condition for grants and for the warranty.
Tip: schedule charging for off-peak hours. It is one of the simplest ways to cut your bill.
If you live in an apartment
Many countries give residents a legal route to request a charger at their parking space. Check the rules where you live and talk to your building manager early: the paperwork often takes longer than the installation.
Read next: EV Fast Charging Explained: AC, DC and kW in 5 Minutes
