We recently received a call from a homeowner in Hertford whose existing EV charger had stopped working. They had checked their fuse board and the circuit was still switched on, but the charger itself showed no signs of life.
We arranged to visit the property, assess the situation and discuss the customer's options.
What started as an enquiry about a faulty charger became an opportunity for the customer to choose something more practical for everyday use. After discussing their requirements, they decided to replace their old untethered charger with a tethered model.
Having spent over 20 years working in the electrical industry, I've seen how important it is to choose equipment that suits the way you actually use it.
Why Was the Existing EV Charger Not Working?
The homeowner's first observation was that the circuit breaker in the fuse board hadn't tripped, yet their EV charger wouldn't operate.
This is something worth understanding if you have a similar problem.
Just because a circuit breaker remains switched on doesn't necessarily mean the charger is receiving power or working correctly.
When we're called to investigate a faulty EV charger in Hertford, there are several things we consider:
Power supply: Is the correct voltage reaching the charger?
Protective devices: Are the circuit breaker, RCBO and other protective devices operating correctly?
Internal charger fault: Has an internal component failed?
Connections: Are there signs of loose connections, overheating or damage?
Manufacturer issues: Is there a known fault, software issue or warranty claim worth investigating?
These are checks for a competent electrician to carry out safely.
In this particular case, the customer decided that replacing the old charger would be their preferred option.
Changing From an Untethered to a Tethered EV Charger
One of the main things we discussed during our visit was how the customer charged their vehicle.
Their existing charger was untethered, meaning they needed a separate charging lead whenever they wanted to plug the car in.
They found this inconvenient, particularly having to find and get the cable out whenever they needed to charge.
After talking through the available options, they chose a tethered charger.
A tethered charger has the charging cable permanently attached. You simply park the car, take the connector from the charger and plug it into the vehicle.
For this customer, it was a much more practical arrangement.
It's a good example of why we always discuss how customers use their vehicles before recommending a replacement charger.
Can You Replace an EV Charger Without Replacing the Wiring?
This is one of the questions we regularly get asked.
In some cases, yes. If the existing cable is correctly sized, in good condition and suitable for the new equipment, it may be possible to reuse it.
However, we need to assess the existing installation before making that decision.
We consider the following:
- The size, condition and installation method of the existing cable.
- The charger's power requirements and the circuit's protective devices.
- Earthing arrangements, including suitable protection against open PEN conductor faults where required.
- RCD and DC residual current protection.
- Whether the existing installation meets the relevant electrical safety requirements.
An older charger may have been installed when different equipment or installation methods were commonly used.
We assess the existing setup against the requirements applicable to the replacement work.
It is always worth having the electrical supply checked before ordering a charger.
Do Older Fuse Boards Need Upgrading for EV Chargers?
Around Hertford and the surrounding villages, we still come across plenty of properties with older fuse boards.
An older consumer unit doesn't automatically mean you need a complete replacement to install a modern EV charger.
However, some older boards may lack suitable protective devices or have insufficient capacity for the proposed installation.
Depending on the property, we may recommend a dedicated EV consumer unit with appropriate circuit protection.
We always assess what is actually required before recommending additional work.
If a consumer unit upgrade is necessary, we'll explain why and what the work involves.
Choosing a Replacement EV Charger: Our Advice
With increasing interest in electric vehicles and the cost of petrol and diesel, more homeowners are considering home charging.
If you're replacing an older charger, I'd recommend thinking beyond the initial purchase price.
Check the manufacturer's warranty.
Look at how long the warranty lasts, what it covers and what support is available if the charger develops a fault.
Choose an established manufacturer.
A well-established brand with UK technical support, replacement parts and a clear warranty process can make things easier if something goes wrong.
- Think about how you'll use the charger.
A tethered charger may suit someone charging every day. An untethered unit may appeal to someone who wants a tidier appearance when it isn't being used.
- Consider smart charging features.
Some modern chargers can integrate with electricity tariffs, schedule charging during cheaper periods and provide usage information through an app.
Check that the charger supports the features you actually need.
What Should You Expect When Replacing an EV Charger?
When we receive an enquiry about replacing an old EV charger in Hertford, we start by finding out what has gone wrong and what the customer would like from a replacement.
We'll discuss their preferred charger, existing electrical installation and where the equipment is positioned.
Before fitting a replacement, the supply and protective arrangements need to be checked for suitability.
The completed electrical work must also be inspected, tested and certificated as appropriate.
Our aim is to make the process straightforward and explain any necessary changes before work goes ahead.
Why Homeowners Choose JJB Electrical LTD
We're a local electrical company with over 20 years of industry experience, carrying out work throughout Hertford and the surrounding areas.
We're NAPIT registered, MCS certified, endorsed by Which? Trusted Traders and registered with TrustMark.
We also have over 200 customer reviews.
One thing we're particularly keen on is turning up when we say we will. We know how frustrating it is to arrange time off work or wait at home for a tradesperson who doesn't arrive.
Alongside EV charger installations and replacements, we also carry out fuse board upgrades, house rewires, electrical testing, solar panel and battery storage installations, outside lighting and smaller electrical jobs.
Whether your existing EV charger has stopped working or you're simply thinking about upgrading to a newer model, we're happy to discuss your options.
FAQs
Is a tethered or untethered EV charger better?
Both have advantages. A tethered charger has a permanently attached cable, making it quick and convenient to plug in, although the cable remains visible when stored. An untethered charger looks tidier and allows you to change the lead, but you'll need to get your charging cable out each time. For the customer in Hertford, the convenience of a tethered charger made it the better option.
Do I need a new consumer unit if my existing fuse board is old?
Not necessarily. We assess your existing consumer unit, cable, earthing and protective devices before recommending any changes. Sometimes we can use the existing installation, while other properties may benefit from a dedicated EV consumer unit or an upgrade to their existing fuse board.
What electrical certificates will I receive after replacing my EV charger?
We provide the appropriate BS 7671 electrical certification for the work completed, usually an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate, depending on the scope. If the installation involves work that must be notified under Building Regulations, you'll also receive the relevant compliance certificate. We'll explain which documents apply to your installation.
How much does replacing an EV charger cost in Hertford?
Our EV charger installation prices start from £899 plus VAT. The final cost of replacing an existing charger depends on the equipment selected, the condition of the existing wiring and whether any electrical upgrades are required. We can assess what's already installed and explain your options.
Can I replace my old EV charger with a different brand?
Yes, in many cases. We can assess your existing electrical installation and check whether it is suitable for a different manufacturer's charger. We recommend choosing an established brand with a suitable warranty and reliable UK technical support.
Should I repair my existing EV charger or replace it?
We recommend checking the manufacturer's warranty and investigating the fault before spending money on a replacement. Sometimes a repair is practical, while an older charger with limited support may be worth replacing. We're happy to look at the existing installation and discuss which option makes sense.
Need to Replace an Old EV Charger in Hertford?
If your existing EV charger has stopped working or you're thinking of upgrading to a tethered model, we're happy to help.
We can take a look at your existing installation, talk through the available chargers and explain whether any electrical upgrades are needed.
Call us on 01992 276087 for a friendly chat with JJB Electrical LTD. No obligation, just straightforward advice.
