The market for home EV charging units is growing, and selecting the perfect one can seem daunting. However, by focusing on a few key criteria, you can find the ideal wall box EV charger for your needs and budget. This checklist will guide you through the essential factors to consider before making your purchase, ensuring you choose a wall box EV charger that delivers performance, safety, and value.

1. Charging Power (kW Rating):
The power rating, measured in kilowatts (kW), determines how quickly the wall box EV charger can replenish your battery. The most common power levels are 7.4 kW and 22 kW.

7.4 kW: This is the standard for most homes. It requires a single-phase electricity supply, which is what most residences have. It provides a full charge overnight (8-10 hours).

22 kW: This faster option requires a three-phase electricity supply, which is more common in commercial properties or larger homes. Check with your electrician if you have three-phase power before opting for this.

Verdict: For most people, a 7.4 kW wall box EV charger is the perfect balance of speed and practicality without requiring expensive electrical upgrades.

2. Tethered vs. Untethered:
This refers to whether the charging cable is permanently attached to the unit.

Tethered: The cable is fixed to the wall box EV charger. This is more convenient—you simply uncoil the cable and plug it into your car. Choose a cable length that easily reaches your charging port.

Untethered: The unit has a universal socket. You use a separate charging cable that you store in your car. This offers flexibility if you have multiple EVs with different plug types, or if you want a neater look on the wall.

Verdict: Tethered is best for single-car households for ultimate convenience. Untethered is better for multi-EV households or if you prefer flexibility.

3. Smart Connectivity:
As discussed in a previous article, a smart wall box EV charger is highly recommended. Key smart features to look for include:

Wi-Fi/4G Connectivity: Allows for app control and remote monitoring.

Scheduling: To leverage off-peak electricity rates.

Solar Integration: If you have or plan to get solar panels.

Load Balancing: To protect your home's electrical circuit.

4. Build Quality and Weatherproof Rating:
Since most wall box EV charger units are installed outdoors, they must be durable. Look for a robust construction and an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of at least IP54, which guarantees protection against dust and water splashes from any direction. A higher rating like IP65 is even better for withstanding harsh weather conditions.

5. Safety Certifications:
Never compromise on safety. Ensure the wall box EV charger has the necessary certifications for your region (e.g., CE marking in Europe, UL listing in North America). This confirms the product has passed rigorous safety tests.

6. Warranty and Support:
A longer warranty period (e.g., 3 years) reflects the manufacturer's confidence in their product. Also, check the availability of customer support should you need assistance.

By systematically evaluating these factors—power, cable type, smart features, durability, safety, and support—you can move beyond the confusion and confidently select the right wall box EV charger that will serve you reliably for years to come.