Main Cut-Out Fuse
The main cut-out fuse is your property’s primary safety device, protecting your home from electrical overloads. It’s located where the electricity supply first enters your property, typically near your electric meter. The cut-out contains a fuse with a specific amperage rating (commonly 60A, 80A, or 100A in UK homes) which determines the maximum power your property can safely handle.
To photograph it properly, ensure you capture the entire cut-out unit with the fuse rating clearly visible. This rating is usually stamped or printed on the fuse itself or on a label attached to the cut-out. Take the photo in good lighting, straight-on, without flash reflection. If the fuse rating isn’t immediately visible, look for removable covers (but don’t remove them yourself) and indicate this to the installer.
Main Incoming Supply Cable
This cable brings electricity from the street into your property. It’s typically a thick black, gray, or red cable entering your property at the meter location. The cable type indicates your earthing arrangement (TN-C-S/PME, TN-S, or TT), which is crucial for ensuring your EV charger is safely installed. A “looped” supply (where your supply feeds another property) requires special consideration.
When photographing, capture where the cable enters your property, any visible markings on the cable sheath, and the connection points at both the cut-out and meter. If possible, take photos showing the full route of the cable. Include any visible earth connections, particularly the point where the cable connects to your consumer unit.
Consumer Unit & Breakers
Your consumer unit (fuse box) distributes electricity to different circuits in your home and contains circuit breakers or fuses that protect individual circuits. Modern units are typically white plastic boxes mounted on a wall, while older ones might be metal. (Please note, new regulations have reintroduced metal clad units, typically white if indoors and plastic ones are being phased out).
Take clear photos of the entire consumer unit with its cover open (if safely possible), showing all breakers/fuses with their ratings visible. Capture any labels identifying circuits and ensure the main switch and RCD protection are visible. Also photograph any spare ways (empty slots) as these might be used for the EV charger circuit. Include a photo of the unit’s rating label, usually found inside the cover or on the side.
Electric Meter
Your electric meter measures electricity consumption and can be either traditional analogue (with a spinning disk and mechanical dials) or smart (digital display). Smart meters often enable special EV charging tariffs that can significantly reduce charging costs.
Photograph the entire meter, ensuring the display and any identifying information are clearly visible. Include additional photos of any buttons, displays, or communication hubs associated with smart meters. If there’s a model number or specification label, capture that too. Also photograph any surrounding equipment like communication modules or timers.
Overall Photo of Electrical Infrastructure
This comprehensive view helps us assess the complete setup, available space, and identify any additional components that might affect installation.
Take several wide-angle photos of the entire area where your electrical equipment is located. Ensure all components (meter, consumer unit, cut-out, any isolators, surge protectors, etc.) are visible in relation to each other. Include photos showing floor-to-ceiling space and accessibility. If you have solar panels, capture the inverter and any battery storage systems. Also photograph any potential location where you’d like the EV charger installed, including the exterior wall and driveway area, showing distances between proposed charger location and your electrical equipment.
