Beyond the Plug: The Overlooked Safety Features Your EV Charger Should Have

Your EV charger works hard every day, managing high electrical currents for hours at a time. And while most chargers are designed with safety in mind, not every installation includes the key protections that make your system truly reliable.

If you’ve recently installed an EV charger or are planning to, understanding these safety features could save you from expensive repairs or worse, electrical hazards.

1. Surge Protection: Your First Line of Defence

Voltage surges caused by grid fluctuations, lightning, or faulty appliances can damage your EV charger and your car’s onboard electronics.

A surge protection device (SPD) fitted into your consumer unit helps absorb sudden voltage spikes, keeping your charger and connected circuits safe. Without one, even a minor surge can permanently damage delicate components inside your EV charger.

2. RCD and RCBO Protection

An RCD (Residual Current Device) detects faults that could lead to electric shock. For EV chargers, regulations now recommend Type A RCDs, not the older Type AC ones, because EVs use direct current (DC) elements that older devices can’t detect properly.
Even better, some installations use RCBOs (RCD + MCB combination), offering both overload and fault protection on each circuit. This ensures that if one circuit trips, it doesn’t cut off power to the whole house.

3. IP Ratings and Weatherproofing

If your charger is mounted outdoors, weatherproofing is crucial. Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating of at least IP65 — meaning it’s protected from dust and low-pressure water jets.

Chargers installed too low on exterior walls or without proper sealing can allow moisture to seep in, leading to corrosion or internal short circuits.

4. Cable Management and Strain Relief

Cables that hang loosely or are pulled frequently can wear down over time. A well-installed charger includes proper strain relief, sturdy fixings, and neat routing to prevent stress on internal connections - reducing the risk of electrical failure or exposed live wires.

5. Smart Charger Cybersecurity

Many modern chargers connect to Wi-Fi or apps for monitoring energy use. That’s convenient,  but also introduces digital vulnerabilities. Make sure your installer updates the firmware during installation and sets up secure Wi-Fi credentials. Avoid using default passwords and update your app regularly to prevent cyber risks.

6. The Importance of Proper Certification

Only certified, Part P-registered electricians (like JJB Electrical) can safely connect your charger to your home’s main supply. We issue full installation certificates and perform all testing in line with BS7671. Always ask for these documents, they’re proof your installation meets safety standards and can affect your home insurance.

Safe Charging Starts with a Safe Installation

At JJB Electrical, safety isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of every EV charger installation we do. From selecting fire-resistant materials and surge protection devices to fitting IP-rated weatherproof housings, we ensure every system is built for long-term reliability.

Whether you need a new EV charger installed or want your existing setup inspected for safety compliance, we can help.

Book your EV charger safety check today.

📞 Call 01992 276087
🌍 Visit www.jjb-electrical.com 

JJB Electrical – Trusted EV charger installers across Hertfordshire & Essex.