Ensure Safe & Efficient Charging in Hoddesdon.
As electric vehicles become more popular across Hoddesdon and Hertfordshire, many homeowners are installing home EV chargers to make daily driving more convenient. But before you can install a charger, it's crucial to check whether your home’s existing consumer unit (fuse box) is up to the task.
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we specialise in upgrading consumer units across Hoddesdon to ensure they are fully compliant, future-proof, and safe for EV charging. In this guide, we’ll explain why a consumer unit upgrade might be necessary, how the process works, and how we make it simple and stress-free for homeowners.
Why Might You Need a Consumer Unit Upgrade for an EV Charger?
Installing an EV charger adds significant load to your home’s electrical system. Not every existing consumer unit is designed to cope with the additional demand.
Here’s why an upgrade may be necessary:
- Older units may lack spare capacity for an additional dedicated circuit.
- No RCD protection: EV chargers must be connected to a circuit protected by a Residual Current Device (RCD) for safety.
- Outdated fuse technology: Rewireable fuses or old-style MCBs may not meet today’s standards.
- Earthing arrangements: Proper earthing is critical for EV installations — many older systems need upgrading.
Even if your current electrics have been working fine, EV chargers require stricter standards for fault protection, load management, and safety — so an upgrade ensures full compliance and peace of mind.
Signs Your Consumer Unit May Need Upgrading
- It's a fuse wire type board (older installations).
- There's no space left for new breakers.
- It lacks modern RCD/RCBO protection.
- It's mounted on a wooden backboard.
- You've had no recent Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
At JJB Electrical Ltd., we’ll carry out a free assessment during your EV charger survey and advise if an upgrade is necessary.
What’s Involved in a Consumer Unit Upgrade for EV Charging?
Upgrading your consumer unit is a thorough but straightforward process when handled professionally:
Step 1: Pre-Installation Checks
- Full inspection of your existing installation.
- Testing of bonding to gas and water services.
- Verifying overall system load and supply capacity.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Consumer Unit
- New boards typically include RCBOs for each circuit (giving each circuit individual RCD protection).
- Surge Protection Devices (SPD) are now recommended to protect against voltage spikes.
- 18th Edition-compliant designs to meet the latest wiring regulations (BS 7671).
Step 3: Installation and Testing
- Safely isolating the old system.
- Removing the old consumer unit.
- Installing the new board with tidy, professional cabling.
- Testing every circuit individually for safe operation.
Step 4: Certification
- Issuing an Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC).
- Notifying building control under Part P of the Building Regulations.
- The installation typically takes one day, but more complex upgrades may require additional time if remedial works are needed.
How an Upgraded Consumer Unit Supports Your EV Charger
With a new consumer unit, your home will be ready for EV charging safely and efficiently:
- Dedicated Circuit: Your charger will have its own protected circuit, separate from the rest of your home’s electrics.
- Better Load Management: Modern boards can handle larger and smarter home electrical systems.
- Maximum Safety: Proper fault protection, surge protection, and fire risk mitigation.
- Future-Proofing: If you later add solar panels, a battery, or a second EV charger, your system will be ready.
Installing an EV charger without assessing your consumer unit is risky and non-compliant — that's why JJB Electrical Ltd. always checks everything properly first.
How Much Does a Consumer Unit Upgrade Cost in Hoddesdon?
Costs vary depending on:
- Size of your home and number of circuits
- Existing cabling condition
- Need for additional upgrades (earthing, bonding, SPD installation)
Typical price range for a standard upgrade:
- From £750 to £1,200 (including full testing and certification)
If significant remedial work is needed, we’ll always explain clearly and provide an upfront quote — no hidden extras.
Can You Install a New Consumer Unit and EV Charger on the Same Day?
Often, yes. If the rest of the installation is straightforward, we can upgrade your consumer unit and fit the EV charger at the same time — saving time and minimising disruption. We’ll confirm everything at your free survey so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Choose JJB Electrical Ltd. for Consumer Unit Upgrades in Hoddesdon?
When it comes to electrical safety, cutting corners is never an option. At JJB Electrical Ltd., we offer:
- Fully qualified, NAPIT-accredited electricians
- 18th Edition-compliant installations
- Clear, honest advice — no scare tactics, no pushy sales
- Fast, professional service
- Local expertise you can trust
Homeowners across Hoddesdon trust us to upgrade their consumer units properly — ensuring full compliance, maximum safety, and perfect preparation for EV home charging.
FAQs About Consumer Unit Upgrades for EV Chargers
Q: Will I be without power all day?
A: Power is isolated during the changeover, but we work efficiently to keep downtime to a minimum.
Q: Do I have to upgrade my consumer unit for an EV charger?
A: Not always, but if your current board doesn’t meet modern standards or lacks space, it’s essential for safety and compliance.
Q: What happens if other faults are found?
A: We’ll explain clearly and offer a fair quotation for any additional work, with no pressure.
Q: Will my new consumer unit have surge protection?
A: Yes — we fit SPDs (Surge Protection Devices) as standard in our modern boards for added protection.
Ready to Power Up Safely? Book Your Consumer Unit Upgrade in Hoddesdon Today
Before you install an EV charger, make sure your home’s electrical system is ready — safe, compliant, and future-proof. At JJB Electrical Ltd., we specialise in helping homeowners across Hoddesdon upgrade their consumer units quickly, safely, and with minimal fuss. Call us today on 01992 276087 to book your free survey — or visit www.jjb-electrical.com to learn more.
JJB Electrical Ltd. — your trusted experts for safe EV home charging in Hoddesdon.
