Improper installation of heat pumps and electric vehicle chargers is leading to an increase in meter cabinet fires, experts report.
Older meter cabinets often cannot handle the higher electrical load from these devices, causing overheating and fire risks, according to industry specialists and Techniek Nederland.
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Fire Safety Starts with the Meter Cabinet
Sjoerd van Gelder of Techniek Nederland stressed the importance of proper installation and maintenance. “All electricity in the home runs through the meter cabinet.
Fire safety starts with a well-installed and well-maintained meter cabinet,” he said.
He added, “The electrical installation in your home is not a hobby project and should not be left to a handy neighbor.”
Electrical expert Henry Lootens explained that many meter cabinets are not designed for the increased energy flow from modern appliances.
“We pull more energy through the meter cabinet for longer periods and it must be built to handle that,” he stated.
Lootens criticized the common practice of simply adding a circuit without upgrading the cabinet.
“Often a circuit is just added, and people think it will be fine,” he said.
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He highlighted the difference in device energy use: “A washing machine heats water in about 15 minutes, but a heat pump requires continuous heat for longer.”
The cabinet must be able to dissipate the heat generated or risk fire.
The advisory firm Krado, commissioned by Netbeheer Nederland, recorded an increase in electrical accidents at home from two to three incidents per week.
Lootens observed a lack of overall management during installations. “The kitchen installer does their part, the solar panel installer theirs, then the charger is added.
Often, no one oversees whether the meter cabinet is still suitable for all these systems,” he warned.
He advised homeowners to check if electricians have “seal rights,” which authorize them to access and manage the meter cabinet safely.
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Insurer Interpolis advised against using the meter cabinet as storage for items like umbrellas or shoes, as these can accelerate fire spread.
