32A Commando socket install

Question

I am about to take delivery of an EV. I'm likely to be moving by the end of the year so spending circa £1k on a domestic charger will not deliver a return on the mileage I am likely to do.
The car comes with its own "mobile charger" which is 7.4kw capable.
I have a modern consumer unit with Schneider Isobar Acti9 125A.
There is a first generation Rolec EV EVWP0020 charger already connected to the CU via a 32A breaker.
I have a SMETS2 smart meter and they are all adjacent on the inside of the garage wall by the garage door where the car will be parked.
What additional components (surge protection/breakers) might I need to install a 32A rated (blue) commando socket?
What would be a reasonable estimate for this job?

George · Accepted Answer

Hi Michael,

Estimates are a dangerous game without a visual, and I think you'll find others with the same problem.

That being said £1k for a domestic ev charger seems extremely pricey. You can pick some up now for £300/£400 and install can be done in around the same price.
You can then remove the charger when moving and either sell, or reinstall at your new premises leaving you paying arguably what you may end up paying to install a commando socket (which are currently being phased out of evse) anyway.

Besh · Answer

To install a 32A rated (blue) commando socket for your electric vehicle (EV), you’ll need the following components:

Commando Socket: The socket itself, which is designed to handle the 32A current. You can find these sockets for around £401.
Cable: You’ll require a suitable cable to connect the commando socket to your smart meter or distribution board. Expect to pay around £50 for a cable like this1.
Surge Protection: adding surge protection can enhance safety and protect your equipment from voltage spikes. Consult with an electrician near you to determine if surge protection is necessary for your specific setup.
Circuit Breaker: A dedicated circuit breaker (MCB) rated for 32A should be installed to protect the commando socket. This ensures that the socket doesn’t overload and trip the circuit.
As for the cost estimate, here are the approximate figures:

Socket and Cable: Around £90 (socket + cable cost minus installation).
Installation Labour: The installation cost can vary based on factors like location, existing wiring, and accessibility. On average, you’re looking at £250 to £400 for installation

Aiwand · Answer

You will need a RCD type A (additional protection if there’s no RCD in existing charger point

Dave · Answer

Hi
It is not recommended to use a commando socket a type 2 type 2 lead has to be used from an EV charging unit approx cost around £400

John · Answer

The charger you have is only capable of 13A. You do not use a commando socket/plug to charge an ev.
The mobile charger might be capable, but you need to take into consideration of PEN fault protection, Surge RDC-DD or type B. Do not use this configuration, do it right either use your Rolec or get a 7kW unit designed to do the job

Adrian · Answer

Already been set up with a schneider cons unit and a surge protector, £200-500 depending on distance of cable, commando sockets aren't used in these installations.

Robert · Answer

To accomplish this task, a 6mm cable in the support strip or a mechanically protected RCBO 32A circuit breaker was required. The minimum cost of labor plus materials can be around £200 - £250.

Lee · Answer

Good evening

You won’t need to use a commando socket for this install as the charger is rated to 13amp. Without seeing the job it would be difficult to give an accurate price. 
For example of your meter is near the install point an additional board for your charger could be used which when you move can be moved with you. 
Surge protection is recommended for boards now days specially with a car charger. (Better safe than sorry)

Stanley · Answer

Probably around £400 mark, will depend on how far the board is from where the commando is going.

David · Answer

It's important to ensure that the cable size is correct. It should be a minimum of 3 core with a size of 6 mm, and the breaker should be an RCBO type A 2 pole isolation breaker. The installation cost is £350 plus VAT.

32A Commando socket install

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