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Professional Guide

Best RCBOs & Protection Units for EV Chargers: 2025 Expert Review

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Oli at OR Electrics

18th Edition Qualified Electrician

Published 17 December 2025

Installing an electric vehicle charger isn't as simple as screwing a box to the wall and running a cable. The most critical component isn't the charger itself; it's the protection behind it. Many homeowners in Leeds ask me which RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overcurrent protection) they need, often hoping to just slot one into their existing consumer unit.

However, under the latest BS 7671 wiring regulations, we have to consider more than just overload. We need to look at DC leakage protection and, crucially for our area, PME (Protective Multiple Earthing) faults. In many Leeds terraces where investigating an earth rod is impossible due to concrete driveways or pavement, standard RCBOs simply aren't enough.

In this review, I'm looking at a specific disconnection unit that I frequently recommend. It solves the 'no earth rod' problem whilst providing the correct Type A RCBO protection required for modern EV charging.

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Specs vs. The Real World

The Spec: "Standard AC RCBO Protection"

The Theory

"Any RCBO will trip if there is a fault, protecting the user."

The Reality

Standard 'AC' type RCBOs can be blinded by DC leakage from EV batteries, rendering them useless. You MUST use Type A or Type B RCBOs for EV circuits to ensure they actually trip when needed.

The Spec: "PME/PEN Fault Protection"

The Theory

"The earth provided by the main grid is always safe."

The Reality

In a PME fault (common in the UK), the earth wire can become live. Without a specialised protection unit or a physical earth rod, touching your car whilst charging could be fatal. Standard consumer unit breakers do not stop this.

My Top 3 Recommendations

Three options to cover different needs and budgets

Garo MCU PME Consumer Unit Type A RCBO for EV Chargers

Budget Pick
Garo MCU PME Consumer Unit Type A RCBO for EV Chargers

Garo

This unit is a lifesaver for installations in terrorised streets or properties with paved driveways. It combines a 40A Type A RCBO with built-in PME fault detection, meaning we don't need to dig up your ground to install an earth rod. It is a cost-effective, all-in-one solution for safety compliance.

Price£171.18 (at time of writing)
BrandGaro
Protection TypeType A RCBO + PME Fault Detection
Rating40A
The Good
  • Eliminates the need for installing an earth rod (huge labour saver)
  • Includes Type A RCBO for proper DC leakage compliance
  • Compact design allows for neat installation
The Bad
  • IP41 rated - strictly for indoor use (garage or inside the house)
  • Ideally requires a separate enclosure if not mounting inside an existing cabinet

Installer Tip:

This unit is perfect for the Victorian back-to-backs in Leeds where you physically cannot install an earth rod. Ensure your supply tails are adequately sized to handle the load before connecting, as this sits between your meter and the charger.

Priced at £171.18 at the time of writing

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Type AC and Type A RCBOs?
Type AC is the old standard, designed for simple resistive loads like heaters. Type A is designed to detect pulsating DC currents, which are common with modern electronics and EVs. For EV charging, BS 7671 regulations strictly require at least Type A (or Type B) to ensure the breaker isn't 'blinded' by DC leakage.
Why do I need PME protection for my EV charger?
Most homes in Leeds use a PME (Protective Multiple Earthing) supply. If the neutral wire breaks in the street, your earth wire could become live with 230V. Touching your metal car whilst charging would then be fatal. PME protection units, like the Garo reviewed here, disconnect the supply instantly if this fault occurs.
Can I install this RCBO unit myself?
No. Installing EV charging equipment is notifiable work under Part P of the Building Regulations. Furthermore, incorrectly torquing terminals or failing to test the loop impedance can lead to fire. Always hire a qualified electrician to install and certify the work.
Do all EV chargers need a separate consumer unit?
Not always, but it is often the safest and most practical method. Installing a small dedicated unit (like the Garo) separates the heavy EV load from your house circuits, prevents nuisance tripping of your main board, and provides the specific PME protection that standard house consumer units lack.

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