If you’re fitting an EV charger at home in 2025, you can’t just throw a spare way in the household consumer unit. The 18th Edition Amendment 2 makes a dedicated EV-ready board the only compliant option – with built-in PEN fault protection, Type A RCBOs, and surge protection as standard.
The question most sparkies ask: which EV consumer unit should I be installing this year?
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What Makes a Good EV Consumer Unit?
Not every board is fit for EV use. A compliant EV consumer unit needs more than a breaker - it must meet Amendment 2, handle high charging loads, and keep installs safe indoors or out.
- 18th Edition A2 compliant – mandatory SPD and PEN protection
- Type A or Type B RCD/RCBO – required for EV charge points
- Weatherproofing – IP65 units are essential for outdoor installs
- Installer-friendly – pre-wired internals, clear knockouts, compact size
Best Options for Domestic Installs in 2025
From compact garage units to full PME boards, these are the units sparkies are relying on this year to pass inspection and avoid callbacks.
1. 4-Way Metal EV Protection Unit with Surge Protection
For most domestic installs, this ticks every box. It includes an A-Type RCBO plus 40kA SPD in a compact metal enclosure. Ideal for garage or wall-mounted EV points.
- Pre-wired for speed
- 18th Edition A2 ready
- Trusted by EV installers nationwide
2. IP65 A-Type RCBO EV Kit
When the charger is outdoors, you need weather protection. This IP65-rated enclosure keeps the RCBO safe from the elements.
- Type A RCBO included
- Weatherproof build
- Perfect for wall-mounted units in exposed spots
3. PME Fault Detection Consumer Units
🔗 WMEPME08 with RCBO + SPD
🔗 WMEPME12 with Load Balancing
On PME systems, Amendment 2 requires PEN fault detection. These PME boards cut supply to the EV charger under open PEN conditions – without the hassle of earth rods.
- Built-in PEN monitoring
- RCBO and SPD protection
- Load balancing options for multi-charger sites
4. IP65 EV Connection Unit with Surge Protection
A neat, compact option for single-circuit EV installs. Surge-protected, IP65 rated, and designed for straightforward fit-outs.
5. Type B RCD EV Kit (for specific chargers)
Some EV chargers still specify Type B RCDs to cover smooth DC residual currents. Most installs are Type A these days, but having a Type B option on hand avoids failed tests and callbacks.
FAQs
Still weighing up which board to pick? These quick answers cover the common compliance and install questions electricians face on EV jobs.
Do all EV installs need surge protection?
Yes. Amendment 2 makes SPDs mandatory for domestic installations unless you can formally justify omission. For EV chargers, SPD is always expected.
Do I need a Type B or Type A RCBO?
Most domestic chargers are fine on Type A, but check manufacturer guidance. If the spec calls for Type B, use a Type B RCD kit.
What about PME earthing systems?
You’ll need PEN fault detection. Our PME consumer units handle this automatically, cutting supply safely under fault conditions.
Can I fit these units outside?
Only IP65-rated enclosures are suitable for outdoor use. Standard metal EV boards are for indoor/garage installs.
Final Word
Choosing the right EV consumer unit is about compliance first, convenience second. If you’re on PME, use a dedicated PME fault detection board. For standard installs, our 4-way EV protection unit is the go-to option. Outdoor charger? Use the IP65 kit.
✅ All stocked in the UK, shipped next-day if you order before 2pm.