If you want to charge your electric car at home, a private charging station is the most practical and cost-effective solution. No more queues, no more expensive public charges – and charging with your own solar power suddenly becomes possible. But before you just order a charging station, it's wise to check: is my home actually ready for it?
In this article, we explain the technical and practical aspects you need to consider, from the meter box and grid connection to smart load balancing. This way, you'll avoid surprises and choose the right charging solution right away.
Why charging at home is so attractive
- You only pay your own electricity rate – often much lower than public charging
- You can charge with your own solar panels
- You decide when you charge (e.g. at night during off-peak hours)
- You don't have to depend on busy charging stations
1. What does your meter box look like?
For a safe charging station installation, you need a separate power circuit, often with a 16A fuse. Check:
- Is there a free group available?
- Does the meter cupboard have room for expansion?
- Do you have a main switch (mandatory since 2006)?
Tip: have this assessed by an installer before ordering a charging station.
2. 1-phase or 3-phase: what do you have?
Your mains connection determines how quickly you can charge:
| Connection type | Max. power | Charging per hour |
|---|---|---|
| 1-phase (230V) | 3.7 kW | ~15-20 km |
| 3-phase (400V) | 11 kW or 22 kW | ~50-100 km |
Three-phase charging is ideal for faster charging times. If your home doesn't have this yet, your grid operator can adjust it (costs approximately €250-500).
3. Placement on private property or public sidewalk?
- Own driveway or garage? You're free to install it, as long as it's technically feasible.
- Municipal land (e.g., sidewalk)? A permit is often required.
- Do you live in a homeowners' association (VvE)? Request permission via the "right to a charging point" form.
Tip: Use cable duct tiles or cable bridges for safe crossing.
4. Smart charging prevents overload and saves money
A charging station draws a lot of power, especially if you also cook, use electric heating, or have solar panels. That's why load balancing is highly recommended:
- Distributes power intelligently across all your devices
- Prevents peak loads and failures
- Combines well with solar panels or dynamic rates
Some chargers offer smart control via apps or energy management systems (e.g. for charging at cheap hourly rates).
Is your home future-proof for EV charging?
When installing, also think about the future:
- Do you want to switch to bidirectional charging later?
- Will there be a second electric car?
- Do you want to integrate with solar panels or a home battery?
Then it pays to choose a charging station with expansion options now.
View our charging solutions for home use
At Accu-Machine.nl you will find a complete range of:
- Charging stations (1-phase & 3-phase)
- Load balancers
- Installation accessories and mounting kits
- Customised advice about your meter box and connection
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How much does a charging station cost, including installation?
- Between €900 and €1,600, depending on type, connection and installation complexity.
- Can I also charge without 3-phase?
- Yes, but charging is slower. With 3-phase charging, you charge 3x faster.
- Do I need to ask permission for a rental property?
- Yes, the owner must give permission. In the case of a homeowners' association (VvE), this also requires permission from the board.
- Can I also connect my solar panels?
- Certainly. Many chargers work with solar energy through smart software or energy management.
