Helpful video reference. We use Zaptec's official installation video "ZAPTEC GO our fastest ever EV Charger Installation" as the video reference here. The Zaptec team shows the physical installation and commissioning process step by step, giving a clear picture of what to expect from start to finish.
1. Site survey and consumer unit check
Before any work starts, the electrician assesses the consumer unit. The key questions are: is there a spare way for the new 32A circuit? Is the main fuse (usually 60A, 80A or 100A) rated to handle the additional load alongside the existing circuits? And what is the earthing arrangement - PME or TT?
Most modern boards have capacity. Older split-load boards occasionally need a way freed up, or in some cases a consumer unit upgrade may be recommended at the same time. If you already know your board is full, mention this when getting quotes.
2. Choose the mounting location
The Zaptec Go mounts on an outside wall, in a garage or in a carport. It needs to be within reach of the parking position and accessible for the cable run from the consumer unit. Ideally the cable route avoids long runs through finished rooms.
The Zaptec Go is rated IP54 so it can be installed outdoors, but a sheltered position under a canopy extends the life of any charger. The electrician will confirm the exact position with you before drilling.
3. Fit the dedicated RCBO in the consumer unit
A 32A Type A RCBO is installed in the spare way. BS 7671 Section 722 requires Type A RCD protection as a minimum for EV charging circuits because the on-board charger in an electric car can produce a small DC component in the fault current - and a standard Type AC RCD will not detect that reliably.
Some installers fit a Type F RCBO instead, which handles both the AC and pulsating DC fault current components and is required where the manufacturer's data sheet calls for it. The Zaptec Go data sheet should be checked for the current recommendation.
4. Run and protect the cable
A 6 mm² twin-and-earth cable (or 10 mm² SWA for longer outdoor runs) is routed from the consumer unit to the charger position. Cable must follow prescribed routes in walls, or be protected against mechanical damage where it is not in a prescribed zone. Trunking, conduit or steel wire armoured cable is used for exposed runs.
The cable is kept clear of other services, buried at the correct depth if it crosses a driveway, and labelled at both ends. The electrician will discuss the route with you before cutting any walls or drilling any floors.
5. Install open PEN fault protection
If the property is on a PME (TN-C-S) supply - identifiable by a combined neutral and earth at the meter - BS 7671 Section 722.411.4.1 requires an open PEN fault protection device to be fitted. This device disconnects the charger if the supply neutral breaks, which would otherwise result in dangerous voltages on the vehicle bodywork.
Approved devices include the Garo GPEV OPD and the Hager EVOPD series, among others. Some Zaptec Go variants have open PEN detection built in. The electrician will confirm which device is required based on the supply type and the specific charger model being installed.
6. Mount and connect the Zaptec Go
The back plate is fixed to the wall, the cable is fed through and terminated at the internal terminals, and the charger body clicks onto the back plate. The earth conductor is connected to the earth terminal and continuity to the consumer unit is confirmed with a multimeter before power is applied.
7. Commission via the Zaptec Portal
The electrician powers the charger, connects it to your Wi-Fi network and logs into the Zaptec Portal app. The unit is registered to your account, charging schedules are configured (useful for off-peak tariffs such as Octopus Go), and if you have solar, the solar-smart charging settings are adjusted to use surplus generation first.
A test charge session confirms everything is working before the electrician signs off the installation certificate.
When to call us
Richard installs OZEV-approved EV chargers across east Kent, including Zaptec, Wallbox, Easee and Andersen models. All installations include the Part P certificate, OZEV grant application support and a 10-year workmanship guarantee. Call for a free quote or drop a WhatsApp with your consumer unit photo and parking position.
EV charger installation in Sandwich?
Richard is OZEV-registered and installs Zaptec Go chargers across east Kent. Get a quote and have the charger fitted in a single visit.
Contact Richard