Choosing the Right Electric Vehicle Charger
The market today is crowded with companies offering electric vehicle chargers, with new suppliers appearing constantly. A quick search reveals at least 14 different charger suppliers, many offering multiple models. Selecting the right charger starts with ensuring it is CE marked, which guarantees the product meets legal safety and quality requirements.
Why CE Marking Matters
Zaptec Pro chargers have undergone rigorous testing and certification by the accredited TÜV SÜD in Germany. For installers, this certification ensures the charger complies with all standards required for CE marking, giving confidence in the product’s safety and reliability.
Safety Requirements for EV Charger Installation
Installing an EV charger comes with its own set of safety requirements. A key requirement is that each connection point for AC charging must include earth fault protection with a trip threshold not exceeding 30 mA. This protection prevents electric shock in the event of a fault.
You can choose from the following protection types:
- Type B
- Type A combined with equipment that cuts out at DC currents above its guaranteed function level.
- Type F combined with similar equipment as Type A.
The Role of Earth Fault Protection
Earth fault protection is critical to safeguard users from electric shocks caused by faults in electrical installations or equipment. When a car charges, its bodywork is grounded. If an earth fault occurs, the protection system automatically disconnects the car from the power source, ensuring the bodywork does not become live and pose a danger.
Built-in Protection in Zaptec Chargers
Zaptec chargers, including ZAPCHARGER PRO and Zaptec HOME, feature built-in earth fault protection. This eliminates the need for external protection in the fuse box, requiring only:
- An automatic circuit breaker.
- Double-insulated cables between the fuse box and the charger.
This streamlined setup reduces installation costs, saving both time and equipment.
Why Type B Protection Is Superior
Zaptec chargers use Type B protection, the most advanced system for preventing unnecessary charging interruptions caused by harmless DC currents. Unlike Type A protection, which stops charging at DC currents above 6 mA (even if harmless), Type B protection allows for charging in a wider range of scenarios without compromising safety.
Automatic Safety Checks with Zaptec
Zaptec chargers make safety even easier by automatically testing earth fault protection before every charge. This means you don’t need to manually test the protection in the charging station, unlike systems that rely on external fuse box testing. Regular testing of earth fault protection is recommended twice a year, but Zaptec’s automation ensures you’re always covered.
Confidence in Every Charge
With built-in protection and automatic safety checks, Zaptec chargers offer reliability and peace of mind. Whether at home or in larger installations, Zaptec’s solutions ensure safety without adding complexity or extra costs.
Written by Espen Håland and Svein Tore Karlsen