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Electrical

What type of cable for single external EV rated 13mp socket?

Carl od 02/09/2026 - 7.52 AM

I want a single external socket to be installed. It will be the masterplug 3pin EV socket with RCBO or simply a 3pin EV rated 3pin socket. https://www.masterplug.com/uk/products/ev/charging-socket/ It will be connected directly to spare 16A MCB in the consumer unit and run about 2.5m on outside wall. I initially purchased a 10mm SWA Armoured cable for the job but it's so damn inflexible and could be a problem with plastic CU. So question is what alternative cable would be better?. i.e. outdoor, uv protection and can handle heat. Should it be specially for 16A or go up to 32A Would it be a H07RNF cable? Thanks

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2 Answers

Rating: 5 out of 5

Glasgow

To wire a dedicated external, EV-rated 13A socket, use 2.5mm² 3-core Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) cable for outdoor or underground runs, or 2.5mm² Twin and Earth (T&E) if the cable runs safely inside the building before punching straight through to a surface-mounted external box.

Answered2 September 2026

Voltsource

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Edenbridge

There are two main things to consider when choosing the cable. First is the conductor size, or CSA. Assuming the supply is protected by a 13A fuse and the run is around 25m, 2.5mm² should be absolutely fine for both current capacity and voltage drop. The second is the environment the cable will be installed in. As it’s outdoors, it needs to withstand UV exposure, moisture and temperature changes, which rules out standard twin and earth. The final consideration is mechanical damage. If the cable could be kicked, strimmered, mown over or disturbed by digging, I’d use 2.5mm² SWA. If it’s securely clipped along the house or another protected route where damage is unlikely, 2.5mm² H07RN-F could be suitable.

Answered2 September 2026