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Sizing a home charger: amps, phases and your supply

A bigger charger is not always a better one. Here is how to match a wallbox to your home and your car.

The right home charger depends on three things: how much power your home can spare, how much your car can accept, and how long it is parked each night.

Start with the supply

Check whether your home has a single-phase or three-phase supply, and what the main breaker is rated for. A single-phase supply limits you to about 7.4 kW. A three-phase supply allows 11 or 22 kW. An electrician or your utility can confirm this from the main distribution board.

Then check the car

Look at the maximum AC charging rate in your car’s specification. Many cars accept 11 kW, and a 22 kW charger will still only deliver 11 kW to them. If your car is limited to 7.4 kW, a three-phase charger gives you no extra speed.

Think about overnight time

Eight hours at 7.4 kW adds about 59 kWh, which fills most batteries from low. For most households, 7.4 or 11 kW is plenty. Choose 22 kW if you have two cars, expect to change to a car that accepts it, or want spare capacity.

Ask about load management

If your home also runs several air conditioners and an oven, a charger with load management lowers its power when the house needs it. That avoids tripped breakers without upgrading your supply.

Not sure where to start?

Tell us about your space and your car. We reply with a recommendation.

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