Why Some EV Chargers Trip More Often in Older Properties in Cheshunt

This problem is especially common in older properties across Cheshunt where the electrical system was never designed with EV charging in mind. A tripping charger is not only frustrating but also a sign that the electrical installation needs attention before further use.

If you live in an older Cheshunt property and you’ve noticed your EV charger cutting out unexpectedly, there are a few reasons why this happens. Most of the causes are not the charger itself but the wiring, load limits or safety devices in the home. In this blog, we explain the most common reasons why EV chargers trip in older homes, why it matters and how a qualified electrician can resolve it safely.

The Hidden Challenge of Installing EV Chargers in Older Cheshunt Homes

Homes built decades ago were designed for a completely different level of electrical demand. Modern appliances, large consumer units and EV chargers simply did not exist. Older circuits often do not have the capacity to support a sustained 7kW charge, especially if the property still uses ageing cables or older RCD technology.

A home EV charger draws a steady, high electrical load for several hours. If the wiring or safety devices cannot handle this consistently, they react by tripping to prevent overheating or faults. This is why many older homes in Cheshunt experience problems shortly after their charger is installed.

Reason One: Older Wiring Cannot Handle Continuous High Load

Many homes in Cheshunt still have circuits that were installed decades ago. Over time, cable insulation can weaken, joints can deteriorate and circuits can become overloaded as more modern appliances are added.

An EV charger typically draws more load than most appliances in the home. If the wiring is already working near its limit, the charger will cause the circuit or RCD to trip. This is a built-in safety response, but it also means the wiring may need upgrading.

Common signs the wiring is ageing include:

• Warm sockets or cables
• Flickering lights
• RCD tripping when heavy appliances run
• Old fuse boxes with outdated components

Before installing a charger, an electrician should always check whether the existing wiring can safely support it.

Reason Two: Wrong Type of RCD Installed

This is one of the most common reasons EV chargers trip in Cheshunt properties.

Older homes often still have Type AC RCDs, which are not suitable for the electrical characteristics of modern EV chargers. EV chargers produce a small amount of DC leakage current. A Type AC RCD cannot detect this correctly, so it becomes “blinded,” meaning it no longer works as it should. The result is unnecessary tripping or, in some cases, the RCD failing to trip when it actually needs to.

Current regulations advise using Type A or Type B RCDs for EV chargers. If your home still relies on older Type AC devices, the EV charger may trip repeatedly until the RCD is upgraded.

Reason Three: Shared Circuits and Overloaded Consumer Units

In older Cheshunt homes, it is common to find a consumer unit with limited spare capacity. When an EV charger is installed, it should be connected to a dedicated circuit. However, if the consumer unit has no available space or if circuits are already heavily loaded, adding an EV charger can push the system beyond safe limits.

Problems often include:

• The main RCD tripping due to overload
• Circuits sharing neutral paths that are not designed for EV loads
• Old consumer units that cannot accommodate modern RCBOs

Upgrading the consumer unit or installing a secondary distribution board is often the safest solution.

Reason Four: Earthing Arrangements Not Suitable for EV Charging

Many older Cheshunt properties still have outdated earthing systems. EV chargers require a stable earth connection to operate safely. If the earthing is insufficient, unstable or does not meet regulations, the charger may cut out frequently as a protective measure.

A professional EV charger installer will always test the earthing system before installation and recommend any necessary upgrades.

Reason Five: External Electrical Conditions in Cheshunt

Some homes experience voltage fluctuations due to local supply conditions. This is more common in older streets where the original infrastructure is still in use. EV chargers are sensitive to voltage changes and may shut down to protect themselves and the property.

This is less common but still a factor that can affect older areas of Cheshunt.

How JJB Electrical Diagnoses and Solves Charger Tripping Issues

When an EV charger keeps tripping, it is rarely a quick fix. At JJB Electrical, we follow a full diagnostic process to ensure the system is safe and stable:

1. Inspect the consumer unit and RCD type
2. Test the wiring and load capacity
3. Check earthing and bonding
4. Measure voltage stability and supply conditions
5. Confirm the charger is installed on a dedicated, compliant circuit

Once the cause is identified, we recommend the safest and most cost-effective solution. In many cases, upgrading the RCD, improving the earthing or installing a new circuit completely resolves the issue.

Why This Matters for Homeowners in Cheshunt

A tripping EV charger is not just an inconvenience. It can be an early warning sign of deeper electrical issues within the home.

Using a charger on an unsafe or overloaded circuit can increase the risk of overheating, damage to appliances or even electrical faults.

By ensuring your system is compatible with modern EV charging demands, you not only protect your charger but also improve the overall safety of your home.

Need Your EV Charger Assessed in Cheshunt?

If your EV charger keeps tripping or if you live in an older property in Cheshunt and are planning a new installation, JJB Electrical can help. Our NAPIT-registered electricians specialise in diagnosing EV charger electrical issues and upgrading older systems safely.

For inspections, upgrades or advice, call 01992 276087.