One of the main reasons it’s a good idea to upgrade your home with an EV charger is that you don’t have to wait in line at public charging stations. Plus, at-home chargers can often save money when your residential electricity rate is cheaper than what you’d pay to charge elsewhere. Many people wonder whether it’s okay to use their at-home EV chargers in the rain. The answer depends on whether it’s lightning. This guide walks you through several FAQs and helpful answers about EV charging in wet weather.
Is It Safe to Charge an EV in the Rain?
Yes, as long as you’re using a charger that is rated for outdoor use. These types have multiple built-in features that make them safe to use in wet weather. You won’t have to worry about creating a shock hazard simply because the charging connector becomes wet as you’re inserting or removing it.
What Should I Do If the Charging Connector Gets Wet?
Just because the outside of the charging connector gets wet doesn’t mean you can’t use it. This is exactly what the outdoor rating is designed for. It’s when the connector gets wet on the inside from dirt, mud, or standing water and then becomes unsafe to use. In this type of scenario, the best thing to do is to hold off using the charger until you thoroughly clean and completely dry it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What Should I Do If There’s Severe Lightning While My EV Is Charging?
Even though it’s safe to use an outdoor-rated EV charger during the rain, this doesn’t mean it’s protected against lightning. And this is why it’s typically best to avoid charging your electric vehicle during severe storms. However, if you already have it plugged in and a storm sweeps through your area, don’t immediately unplug it. Just leave it plugged in until the storm passes so you don’t risk being outside handling the equipment during lightning. You may also want to consider adding a dedicated or whole-home surge protector for added protection against lightning-related power surges.
Is It Okay to Use an Extension Cord With an EV Charger During Wet Weather?
No. You should never use an extension cord with your EV charger, whether it’s raining or not. If you do, the cord may get so hot that it melts the insulation or starts a fire. Plus, if you’re using it in wet weather, you’re raising the likelihood of electrical shocks.
Even though it’s safe to use an at-home EV charger in the rain as long as it’s rated for outdoor use, you may also want to add a weatherproof enclosure to it for extra protection. Just keep in mind that the enclosure must be specifically designed for your charger’s brand and model. This ensures the charger has proper ventilation and adequate airflow at all times. If you live in Boise, ID or a surrounding area and need EV charger services, make your first call to Sublime Electric.