A 7 kW charger needs about 32 amps of its own. Whether the house can spare that depends on the cut-out fuse, the diversity of the other loads and the network operator's rules. Many newer homes have a 100 amp main fuse. Older houses on 60 amp or 80 amp fuses, or with electric showers, heat pumps and ovens already running, may need a fuse upgrade or load management before a charger is connected at full rate.
Fuse upgrades for a home EV charger: questions for the first visit
Look at the fuse rating printed on the cut-out if it is visible, and list big loads: an electric shower, a heat pump, a range cooker, a hot tub. A photo of the cut-out helps, without removing covers you are not qualified to remove.
How fuse upgrades for a home EV charger moves the job
A fuse upgrade is often free or a standard network service when it is only the fuse, and it becomes a paid reinforcement job if the cable in the street is the limit. Load curtailment can be the cheaper alternative if you can accept the charger slowing when the shower is on.
What goes wrong with fuse upgrades for a home EV charger
Assuming every house can take 7 kW because the neighbour can, or ordering a 22 kW charger to 'be ready' on a 60 amp fuse, creates delays. So does booking the installer for the same morning as a fuse change that has not been confirmed.
Point at fuse upgrades for a home EV charger in the pack
The quote should say whether a fuse upgrade or load management is required, who applies, and whether the install date depends on the network visit.
Fuse upgrades for a home EV charger
You cannot pull the main fuse yourself. The distribution network operator, or a meter operator they appoint, changes a cut-out. The installer identifies the limit and applies. Times vary from a short visit to a longer queue if the service cable also needs work.
- 60 amp and 80 amp services are the usual pinch points
- 100 amp is common and still not a guarantee
- The network operator changes the cut-out, not you
- Load management is a legitimate alternative
Frequently asked questions
Can the installer upgrade the fuse on the day?
Usually no. Cut-out work is the network or meter operator's job and needs a booking.
Does a smart meter include a fuse upgrade?
No. A meter exchange and a fuse upgrade are different visits, even if they are coordinated.
Will the charger be limited until then?
Sometimes the installer will not connect at 32 amps until the service is suitable. Agree that before the day.
Is three-phase the same request?
No. A three-phase upgrade is a larger connection change than swapping a single-phase fuse for a higher rating.
Core buying guides
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Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local EV Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.