EV Chargers and Heat Pumps on the Same London Supply

More London homes are adding both a heat pump and an EV charger as they move away from gas and petrol. Both are large electrical loads, and in winter they can run at the same time as cooking, showers and lighting. On a typical single-phase London supply, that needs planning. This post explains how to make the two work together.

Why the combination needs planning

A home charger can draw around 7kW, and a heat pump can draw several kilowatts on a cold day. Add an electric shower or an oven and the total can approach the limit of the main fuse. The network operator also needs to know about both, and may need to check or upgrade the supply. Our main blog explains heat pumps and your electrics in more detail.

Load management is the usual answer

Most smart chargers can be fitted with load management. A sensor measures how much power the house is using, and the charger slows down when demand is high, then speeds up again when it drops. This keeps the heat pump running for comfort while the car charges in the gaps, usually overnight. It often avoids the need for a supply upgrade.

Schedule charging around heating

• Set the car to charge in the early hours when heating demand is usually lower.
• Many tariffs designed for heat pumps and EVs offer cheaper overnight rates.
• Avoid charging during the morning and evening heating peaks if you can.

Our guide to smart charger rules covers scheduling.

Check the consumer unit and supply

Both the heat pump and the charger need their own circuits and suitable protection. Older consumer units may not have space or the right devices. A survey before either is installed avoids surprises. See our guide on whether you need a new consumer unit.

Plan both at once if you can

If you expect to add a heat pump within a few years, mention it when you book your charger survey. The charger can be set up with load management from the start, and cable routes can be planned for both.

Energy North Ltd installs home chargers across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians. See our EV charger installation page to book a survey.