What is the best home charging station?
Are you looking for a home charging station, but can’t see the wood for the trees? You’re not alone. The range is wide, and the right charging station depends on your car, your home, your solar panels, and your preferences when it comes to smart charging and future-proofing.
In this blog, we list the three best home charging stations and explain what to look out for when choosing a home charger. We also show why smart charging solutions from Ratio can make a real difference.
The 3 best charging stations for home use
At Ratio, you can choose from three high-quality charging stations, each designed to meet a different need. Do you have solar panels and want to charge using your own energy? Then the Ratio Solar is the logical choice. Do you drive for business and want to settle charging costs with your employer at home? The Ratio io6 offers all the features you need. Looking for a reliable and straightforward solution without unnecessary complexity? The Ratio Solid is a perfect match for your situation.
To help you make the right choice, we have listed the key features below:
Why choose a home charging station?
Charging at home is more cost-effective than using public charging points and offers maximum flexibility. You no longer need to search for an available spot and can charge overnight at lower energy rates. With your own charging station, you are also better prepared for future developments such as dynamic energy contracts or the use of self-generated solar power. A smart charging station helps you save costs while optimising your energy consumption.
What should you consider when choosing a charging station?
When selecting a charging station, there are several important factors to keep in mind.
Your electricity connection
Charging speed depends not only on your car but also on your home’s electrical connection. Older homes often have a more limited connection, while newer homes are better prepared for higher loads. Faster charging requires a more powerful connection. Always have this checked by an installer in advance so you know what is possible.
Your car
The onboard charger in your car determines the charging capacity. Some models, especially plug-in hybrids, charge via a single phase and therefore more slowly, while others support three phase charging. Maximum charging power also varies per vehicle. Smaller electric cars and plug-in hybrids often charge differently from larger models. Always check what your car supports.
The charging station
Your charging station must be compatible with both your car and your home installation. Higher charging power requires support from both the vehicle and the electrical connection. A smart charging station prevents peak loads and ensures stable charging, which is better for both your car and the electricity grid.
Choose the right charging capacity
For home charging, the choice between an 11 kW or 22 kW charging station depends on your electrical connection and your car’s charging capabilities. For most households, 11 kW is sufficient and usually does not require upgrades. Charging at 22 kW requires a heavier connection and a car that supports this capacity. Make sure to get proper advice on what is technically feasible in your home.
Determine the right configuration and features
Beyond charging capacity, practical choices affect ease of use. You can mount the charging station on a wall or place it freestanding on a pole, for example if there is no wall near your driveway. Also consider the type of charging cable you need. Most modern vehicles use Type 2, while older models may require Type 1. Automatic cost settlement is also useful, especially for business drivers or when charging costs need to be reimbursed.
Choose a smart charging station with Dynamic Load Balancing
Dynamic Load Balancing prevents overloading your home’s electrical system. You can run appliances such as a washing machine or air conditioning while charging your car at the same time. The charging station automatically adjusts charging power based on total household consumption. This allows safe charging without modifications to your fuse box. Smart charging stations from Ratio, such as the Ratio io6 and Ratio Solar, are equipped with this functionality as standard. Combined with the Sense Wireless P1, you also benefit from a fast and wireless installation.
Sustainable charging with solar panel integration
More and more households generate their own electricity using solar panels. By linking your charging station to solar power, you charge your car using self-generated energy. This is both sustainable and cost-effective. The Ratio Solar is specifically developed for solar integration and offers full control via the app. You decide when and how to charge, using grid power, solar power or a combination of both.
Discover the best charging solution for your situation
Would you like to charge your electric car at home in a way that suits your needs? Our specialists are happy to provide personalised advice. Ratio charging stations combine modern technology, Dutch quality and user-friendly design. Contact us today and discover which charging station best fits your home situation.
