A big mistake is treating outdoor installation like indoor installation. If your unit is exposed to rain, frost, hose spray, or wind-driven moisture, the enclosure must be correctly rated and correctly fitted. Poor weather protection can lead to water ingress and premature faults.

In the UK, you’ll often see outdoor units specified with IP-rated protection (water/dust resistance). For example, many AC home EV chargers are designed to be IP65 for outdoor environments, and impact resistance (like IK10) helps protect the casing from knocks in driveways or tight parking spots. The key isn’t just the rating on paper – it’s ensuring the install maintains it (good cable entry points, proper glands, sealed routes, and correct mounting).

Also watch for a related trap: installing extra kit outdoors “to make it tidy,” such as external consumer units. The IET highlights that condensation and impact can be important considerations for external consumer units in domestic EV installations and that good practice matters in maintaining the declared IP rating.

Do instead: If anything is outdoors (charger or supporting equipment), ensure the enclosure and installation method are designed for harsh weather and moisture.