As more homeowners make the switch to electric vehicles, having a reliable home charging solution has become an essential part of everyday life. A professionally installed EV charger offers convenience, faster charging, and the reassurance that the installation has been designed and tested in accordance with current electrical regulations.
This recent project took place in Camberley, where I completed an Ohme EV Charger Installation for another happy customer. It was one of those bright, sunny days that makes outdoor electrical work particularly enjoyable. The installation itself was relatively straightforward, but like many EV charger projects, there were a few important details that needed careful planning to ensure the finished installation was both safe and neat.
Choosing the Right Supply for the EV Charger
Every EV charger installation starts with assessing the property's existing electrical installation.
For this project, the charger was supplied by a new dedicated circuit taken directly from the electricity meter position. A dedicated circuit ensures the charger has its own protection and can operate safely without affecting the rest of the electrical installation. Although the cable run was only around five metres, every part of the installation still needed to comply with the latest wiring regulations. Correct cable sizing, suitable protective devices, and careful routing all play an important role in the long-term reliability of the installation. The aim is always to provide an installation that not only looks professional on the day it is fitted but continues to operate safely for many years.
Making the Most of Limited Space
One of the challenges on this project was the lack of available space inside the existing meter box. This is something I come across quite regularly. Meter boxes are often designed only to house the electricity meter and the incoming supply equipment, leaving very little room for additional electrical components.Rather than trying to squeeze equipment into an unsuitable space, the better solution was to install a weatherproof IP66-rated outdoor consumer unit next to the meter box. This dedicated enclosure provides plenty of room for the protective devices while also offering excellent protection against the weather. It creates a tidy installation and makes future maintenance much easier if it is ever required.
Why RCBO and SPD Protection Are Important
The new outdoor consumer unit was fitted with a double-pole RCBO together with an SPD (Surge Protection Device). These are two important components of a modern EV charger installation. An RCBO protects the circuit against overloads, short circuits, and earth faults. Because the protection is dedicated solely to the EV charger, any fault would only affect that circuit, leaving the rest of the property's electrical installation operating normally. The double-pole design also provides additional isolation by disconnecting both the live and neutral conductors when required, making it particularly suitable for EV charging installations. The Surge Protection Device helps protect both the EV charger and other sensitive electrical equipment against transient voltage surges that can occasionally occur on the electrical network. As modern homes contain more valuable electronics than ever before, this additional level of protection provides valuable peace of mind. If you're considering installing an EV charger at your home, call 0118 430 0038. I'm always happy to offer friendly advice and recommend the most suitable charging solution for your property.
A Neat Installation Makes All the Difference
Although the cable run for this project was relatively short at around five metres, attention to detail remains just as important. Good cable routing, secure fixings, and tidy terminations all contribute to a professional finish.One of the things I enjoy most about EV charger installations is leaving customers with an installation that not only functions perfectly but also looks like it has always belonged there. Small details often make the biggest difference, and taking the time to get those details right is something I always take pride in.
Testing and Commissioning the Ohme Charger
Once the installation was complete, the final stage involved thoroughly testing the new circuit before commissioning the charger. Every EV charger installation should be fully inspected and tested before being put into service. This confirms that the protective devices operate correctly, the wiring has been installed safely, and the charger is ready for everyday use. The Ohme charger was then commissioned and configured, ensuring it was ready for the customer to start charging their vehicle straight away. Ohme chargers are well known for their smart charging features, allowing users to schedule charging times and make use of off-peak electricity tariffs where available. This can help reduce running costs while making charging more convenient.
Helping More Homeowners Prepare for the Future
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common across Surrey, Berkshire, and the surrounding areas, and more homeowners are recognising the benefits of having their own charging point at home. A professionally installed charger offers faster charging, improved safety, and the convenience of simply plugging the vehicle in when returning home. Every property is different, and no two EV charger installations are exactly the same. Whether it involves a short cable run like this project or a much longer installation around the outside of a property, careful planning and the correct equipment are always the key to achieving a safe and reliable result.If you are looking for an EV charger installation in Camberley, Wokingham, Reading, or the surrounding areas, call IGT Electrical Ltd on 0118 430 0038 to discuss your requirements. I'll be happy to provide practical advice, recommend the best solution for your home, and carry out a professional installation that is designed to last.
