Summary:
Surge protection isn’t just a recommendation anymore — it’s a requirement for modern electrical systems, especially EV charging and solar setups. In this post, we’ll break down why Type 2 Surge Protection Devices (SPDs) are essential, what the regulations say, and how Eco Harmony’s fitted consumer units make compliance easy for installers.
What Is Surge Protection?
A surge protection device (SPD) safeguards electrical systems from transient overvoltages — short, high-energy spikes caused by switching events, lightning strikes, or grid disturbances.
These surges may last less than a millisecond, but they can:
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Damage EV chargers, solar inverters, and electronics
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Shorten the lifespan of sensitive equipment
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Create safety hazards for users
With the growing number of EV chargers and solar systems in UK homes, surge protection has become critical.
What the Regulations Say (BS 7671:2018 Amendment 2)
Under the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671 A2:2022), surge protection must be installed in most premises unless a documented risk assessment proves otherwise.
For EV charging points and solar PV, surge protection is strongly recommended — and practically required in most installations.
The rule of thumb for installers:
If the cost of equipment or risk of downtime exceeds the cost of an SPD — it must be installed.
Why EV and Solar Systems Need SPDs
Both EV chargers and solar systems connect directly to the electrical grid and contain sensitive electronics that can easily be damaged by voltage spikes.
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⚡ EV Chargers: Rapid charge units and smart chargers (Tesla, Zappi, Ohme, etc.) are particularly vulnerable to surges.
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☀️ Solar Systems: Inverters and optimisers can fail instantly from overvoltage transients.
Installing a Type 2 SPD between the incoming supply and your circuits provides instant protection and compliance with BS 7671.
Pre-Fitted SPD Solutions from Eco Harmony
To make installation quicker and neater, Eco Harmony offers a range of pre-fitted consumer units combining RCBO + SPD in one enclosure:
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🔹 RCBO + Surge Protection Consumer Unit (IP65 Plastic)
Ideal for outdoor EV and solar applications with full IP65 protection. -
🔹 RCBO + Surge Protection Consumer Unit (IP30 Metal)
A compact, professional indoor option with clean metal housing.
Both include Type 2 SPDs, pre-wired RCBOs (32A or 40A), and are compliant with the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.
That means no extra wiring, no guesswork, and guaranteed compliance.
Installation Best Practices
When fitting an SPD:
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Always install as close as possible to the origin of the supply.
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Keep cable lengths short to minimise voltage drop.
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Connect earth conductors directly to the main earth bar.
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Test the system after energisation and record results in your EIC.
Following these steps ensures your installation meets standards and delivers full protection.
In Short: Protect, Comply, and Simplify
SPDs are no longer optional. They’re essential protection for EV and solar systems, and Eco Harmony’s pre-fitted consumer units make installation faster, safer, and more professional.
👉 View Surge Protection Solutions:
https://ecoharmony.co.uk/collections/surge-protection-pme