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13A EV chargers

vantech

Hi, 

I started another post regarding portable EV chargers and it raises the question of 13A portable EV chargers and earthing arrangements. 

These devices are readily available on Amazon and from EV dealerships. The user can plug-in and charge at around 2.3kW from a 13A socket. 

These do not take into account the earthing arrangements, nor do they appear to have PEN fault detection in them (unless this isn’t publicised). 

Are they exempt from the regulations because they are “temporary“ and covered by a product standard? 

Appreciate there is guidance on EV charging and outlets destine for this use, however this doesn’t take into account the vast majority of users of these plug them in anywhere they like, for instance when they go on holiday. 

Thoughts? 

  • 0

    gkenyon: 
     

    So, yes, there's not a lot BS 7671 can do regarding people using a standard socket-outlet in a PME installation to supply a caravan or EV, as a lot of people do. 

    However, BS 7671 can't contradict legislation, particularly given the DTI guidance (see Page 20).

    I think the moral being just because you can, doesn't mean you should.

    That I agree with, but we are talking specifically about PEN faults, so if the install is TT or TN-S, there is then no issue with portable EV chargers, assuming the outlets/receptacles are suitable.  

  • 0

    Just out of interest I had a lost neutral today. 

    Customer called out for loss of power and he had checked neighbours OK. PME supply tested L and N both live but 0V between them. 230V for both L  & N to  MET and to one end of tester stuck in ground (external meter cupboard). Smart meter dead.

    Called Scottish Power out who were there within a hour. Their engineer called me to let me know the  fault was the smart meter (fitted just over a  month ago) had loose connections! He had tried to tell the supplier who had changed the meter but was not allowed to due to data protection! He has told customer to complain to supplier and I will check that he does. 

  • 0

    vantech: 
     

    gkenyon: 
     

    So, yes, there's not a lot BS 7671 can do regarding people using a standard socket-outlet in a PME installation to supply a caravan or EV, as a lot of people do. 

    However, BS 7671 can't contradict legislation, particularly given the DTI guidance (see Page 20).

    I think the moral being just because you can, doesn't mean you should.

    That I agree with, but we are talking specifically about PEN faults, so if the install is TT or TN-S, there is then no issue with portable EV chargers, assuming the outlets/receptacles are suitable.  

    Without a “smart” mode 3 charger, we may have problems with the grid at times, plus of course the 13 A outlet will take a lot longer to charge the car than a 7 kW (or larger) charger. All goes into the mix …

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