Do electric vehicle (EV) chargers need Surge Protection?

In the past, Surge Protection Devices have been entirely optional in electric vehicle charger installations. However, due to wiring regulations (18th Edition Amendment 2) that came into force in September 2022, the question – Do EV chargers need Surge Protection? – is no longer a straightforward answer. In fact, it’s up to you as to whether you want a Surge Protection Device to protect your electric car charger from power surges.

But don’t worry – we are going to explain everything you need to know about EV chargers and Surge Protection, including what a Surge Protection Device is, who can install EV charger Surge Protection Devices and answer whether you should invest in a Surge Protection Device.

What is a surge protection device for EV chargers?

In short, Surge Protection Devices (SPD) are installed to protect electrical devices and appliances – including EV chargers – from power surges (sometimes referred to as transient overvoltages, if you want to get technical).

An electrical power surge, in simple terms, is when there is a significant increase in voltage that exceeds the standard 230-volt flow. The duration is only a few seconds, but as a result, electrical equipment can be damaged or, in rare cases, destroyed if an SPD is not fitted. Lightning strikes, faulty wiring and an electrical overload are a few examples of what can trigger electrical power surges.

Luckily, Surge Protection Devices divert the excess power from a power surge into the earth instead of it reaching your electrical appliances, offering an additional layer of protection and safety.

For EV chargers, a Surge Protection Device (SPD) is fitted in your home’s fuse box/consumer unit at the time of your EV charger installation, protecting your EV charger, your home and you from unforeseen power surges.

Do you need surge protection for your EV charger?

On 27th September 2022, the new 18th Edition Amendment 2 of the Wiring Regulations came into effect. Within these 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, it’s stated that all new electrical circuits must have Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) fitted. Since EV charger installations include installing a new circuit, you do need surge protection with your EV charger according to the new wiring regulations.

However, the new regulations also state that customers can opt out of having a Surge Protection Device at the time of their EV charger installation if they wish to do so, meaning the overall decision of whether or not to have a surge protection device is down to you as the customer.

Should you have a surge protection device for EV charging?

At We Power Your Car, we recommend that a Surge Protection Device is installed at the time of your home electric car charger installation. As EV chargers are typically installed outside (although they can be installed inside – for example, in garages), they are more susceptible to lightning strikes. And unfortunately, with the ever-changing English weather, while there is no problem charging your EV in the rain, there is a risk that lightning could strike and cause a power surge.

If damage occurs from an electrical surge, the cost to replace or repair the damaged charging equipment is significantly higher than the small cost of an SPD. And when you compare it against the price of your home EV charger, it’s only a fraction of the price.

That being said, most electric vehicle chargers installed before the first of September 2021 haven’t had an SPD installed. Therefore, some might say they are not essential when it comes to home electric vehicle chargers.

But, overall, we would say it’s always better to be safe than sorry. By investing in an SPD, you know you will be protected from any unwanted electrical issues arising – so, in our professional opinion, it is worth getting a surge protection device for your EV charger for added peace of mind.

Does opting out of a surge protection device affect my EV charger warranty?

The majority of electric vehicle charger manufacturers will honour the warranty, whether SPDs are fitted or not.

However, it’s important to note that manufacturers and installation companies (such as ourselves) cannot take responsibility for any damage or failure caused by power surges if you decide against an SPD.

Who can install electric car charger Surge Protection Devices?

Similarly to how only professionals should install electric vehicle charging points – do not try to undertake an EV charger installation yourself – Surge Protection Devices should only be installed by qualified and experienced electrical professionals.

Why? Because handling electricity can be dangerous, and what’s more, if the Surge Protection Device is not installed correctly, it would leave your EV charger vulnerable to power surges.

Summary:

• Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) are installed to safeguard electrical devices and appliances from power surges, including electric vehicle chargers.
• According to the new 18th Edition Amendment 2 of the Wiring Regulations, which came into effect on 27th September 27th 2022, surge protection devices (SPDs) are required for all new electrical circuits – including EV charger installations. This means that surge protection is needed for your EV charger to comply with the regulations in 2024, so popular EV chargers such as the Zappi and Easee must have SPD fitted. However, the wiring regulations also allow customers to choose to opt out of installing a surge protection device if they wish to do so. Ultimately, the decision to have surge protection for your EV charger is up to you as the customer, considering the requirements and recommendations outlined in the regulations.
• SPDs are fitted in the home’s fuse box/consumer unit during installation to protect charging stations from potential harm.
• Surge Protection Devices should only be handled and installed by qualified and experienced professionals.

Are you looking for a home EV charger and a surge protection device?

At We Power Your Car, we offer a wide range of the best home EV chargers. If you are wanting a home EV charger and Surge Protection, we can install one at the time of your installation for only a small cost. In fact, we can install home electric vehicle chargers wherever you are in the UK with our network of expert engineers – all with first-class customer service (don’t believe us? View our Trustpilot)

If you are looking to get an EV charger installed at your home, click below to get your free quote, or contact us for more information or any queries you may have.

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