Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Charging Station

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Charging Station

Owning an electric or plug-in hybrid car comes with the need for fast, safe, and affordable charging.

Whether you're looking for a solution for your home, your business, an Airbnb property, or for your travel transportation, the right equipment ensures comfort and protection.

Selection Based on Usage Location

  • For Home: Choose a wall-mounted station (Wallbox) 7.4 kW (if you have single-phase power) or 11 kW (if you have three-phase). The Dynamic Load Balancing function is essential so that the power doesn’t “drop” when you turn on the oven or air conditioner.

  • For the Office / Business: Prefer 11 kW or 22 kW stations, often with a dual socket (2x11 kW). You definitely need an RFID system (access cards) or app-based control, so that only company vehicles or authorized employees can charge.

  • For Airbnb & Tourist Accommodations: Choose a high-durability station (IP65/IK10 certification for outdoor use). Look for models with RFID support or the OCPP protocol, so you can lock the device when there are no guests or automatically charge customers for charging.

  • For Travel (Portable Chargers): A portable charger (Portable EVSE) is essential in the trunk. It connects to a standard Schuko household outlet or a CEE industrial socket (blue/red) at the vacation home or hotel, ensuring you never run out of charging support.

Power Supply & Charging Speed (kW)

Supply Type Charger Power Indicative Charging Time (0-100%) Suitable for
Single-phase 3.7 kW – 7.4 kW 8 – 12 hours Homes with single-phase power, Portable travel chargers
Three-phase 11 kW 5 – 7 hours The ideal choice for homes, offices & Airbnb
Three-phase 22 kW 2.5 – 4 hours Businesses, shared spaces & vehicles that support it

Note: Most modern electric cars accept up to 11 kW in alternating current (AC). Therefore, a three-phase 11 kW charger covers 90% of cases.

Technical Features to Pay Attention To

  • Dynamic Load Management (DLB): Automatically adjusts the charger’s power according to the other electrical appliances operating in the space.

  • Built-in 6mA DC Protection: Saves you the extra cost of buying an expensive Type B electrical relay in the panel.

  • Wi-Fi / App Control: Allows you to schedule charging during the hours when the reduced night tariff applies.

  • Solar Panel Connection: Enables surplus solar energy to be directed directly into the car.

  • Plug Type: All modern stations feature a socket or integrated Type 2 cable, which is compatible with all vehicles in Europe.

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