Top Safety Tips for Using Your Home EV Charger

Top Safety Tips for Using Your Home EV Charger

Table of Contents

1. Choose a certified electrician for installation
2. Install a dedicated circuit and fuse board
3. Use quality, certified charging equipment
4. Regularly inspect and maintain your charger
5. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines
6. Ensure proper cable management
7. Protect Against Power Surges
8. Educate household members on charger safety

1. Choose a certified electrician for installation

The foundation of EV charger safety begins with professional installation. In the UK, it is crucial to hire a certified electrician who is registered with a competent person scheme, such as NICEIC or NAPIT. This ensures that the installation complies with the UK's Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and Building Regulations Part P.

At ZA Electrical, our team of certified electricians has extensive experience installing EV chargers across Sussex and Brighton. We ensure that every installation meets the highest safety standards.

2. Install a dedicated circuit and fuse board

EV chargers require a significant amount of power, and connecting them to an existing circuit can lead to overloading and potential fire hazards. Installing a dedicated circuit and fuse board for your EV charger isolates it from other household circuits, enhancing safety and performance.

This setup allows for the correct Residual Current Device (RCD) protection, which quickly disconnects the power supply in case of a fault, reducing the risk of electric shock or fire.

3. Use quality, certified charging equipment

Not all EV chargers are created equal. It's essential to use charging equipment that meets UK safety standards and is certified by recognised bodies. Look for chargers that have the CE mark and comply with the latest British Standards.

Using substandard or counterfeit chargers can lead to malfunctions, posing risks to both your vehicle and home.

4. Regularly inspect and maintain your charger

Regular maintenance of your EV charger is vital to ensure its continued safe operation. Inspect the charging cables, connectors, and the unit itself for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, refrain from using the charger and contact a professional electrician.

Additionally, schedule annual inspections with a certified electrician to check the overall condition of the charger and associated electrical systems.

5. Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Each EV charger comes with specific instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that you're using the charger as intended, which is crucial for safety and to maintain any warranties.

This includes understanding the recommended charging times, proper handling of cables, and any specific environmental considerations.

6. Ensure proper cable management

One of the most overlooked aspects of EV charger safety is cable management. Poorly stored or tangled cables can become:

• Trip hazards, especially on driveways or paths.

• Damage risks, such as twisting or pinching, can degrade the insulation.

• Exposure points, where moisture or dirt might compromise safety.

To avoid this:

• Use a cable holster or wall hook to keep things tidy.

• Avoid driving over cables.

• Always unplug and store neatly when not in use.

• Replace any frayed or damaged cables immediately.

ZA Electrical can advise on and install cable management solutions that suit your home layout, whether your charger is mounted in a garage, on an external wall, or along a driveway.

7. Protect Against Power Surges

Though rare in the UK, power surges caused by lightning strikes, faulty appliances, or grid issues can damage sensitive equipment—including EV chargers and your vehicle’s onboard computer.

Installing a surge protection device (SPD) within your consumer unit is a smart way to shield your charger from these unpredictable spikes.

ZA Electrical recommends surge protection as part of all new installations, especially with the rising adoption of electric vehicles and solar panels.

8. Educate household members on charger safety

It’s not enough for just one person in the house to know how the EV charger works. Everyone should understand basic do’s and don’ts:

• Don’t use the charger with wet hands.

• Don’t let children play near charging cables.

• Always check for visible faults before plugging in.

• Turn off the power at the switch in case of emergency.

ZA Electrical can provide a safety briefing at installation, so everyone in your household knows how to use the charger responsibly.

9. Stay compliant with UK charging regulations

Since 2022, the UK government has implemented new regulations to ensure home EV chargers are smart, efficient, and safe. This includes:

• Default off-peak charging to reduce grid load.

• Randomised delay start functions to prevent grid surges.

• Secure communication protocols to protect against cyber threats.

All chargers installed by ZA Electrical are fully compliant with the Electric Vehicles (Smart Charge Points) Regulations 2021 and BS EN 61851 standards.

10. Schedule annual inspections

Like your boiler or car, your EV charger should be professionally inspected once a year. This keeps you compliant with safety best practices, protects your car’s warranty, and ensures early issues don’t become major repairs.

ZA Electrical offers annual EV charger check-ups as part of our Residential Electrical Maintenance Plans.

Final Thoughts: EV charger safety starts with smart choices

Home EV charging is fast, affordable, and efficient—but only if done correctly. From installation to daily use, each step should be informed by safety and compliance.

By choosing ZA Electrical, you're not only getting expert installation and service, but also peace of mind that your EV charging setup meets the highest standards.