You may be wondering if there are any risks associated with using a charger for your electric vehicle. EV chargers are designed to be safe but there are still steps you can take to make sure you’re using yours in the safest way possible.
Get Your EV Charger Installed By An Electrician
If you plan to use a Level I charger, the charging cable that comes with your electrical vehicle, hire a qualified electrician to install a dedicated outlet with GFCI protection that is the right amperage for the job.
If you plan to use a Level II charger — the kind that can almost completely charge your car overnight — you must have it installed professionally by a certified electrician.
Take Common Sense Precautions
Use your head. Make sure that:
- Your charger is certified by a nationally recognized testing service.
- Your equipment is in good working order. Inspect the charging cable before you plug it in. Do not use a charger with a cable that’s frayed or otherwise damaged.
- You plug your charger directly into the outlet; never use an extension cord or adapter.
- You store your charger properly, once you’re done with it, to prevent damage and to keep it away from children and pets.
Is It Safer To Use Your EV Charger Inside Or Outside?
It’s completely safe to use your EV charger inside or outside, whether it’s installed in a garage, under a carport, or out in the open. As long as your charger is installed properly, your electrical infrastructure is up to code, and you’re following the instructions in your owner’s manual, charging your EV is safe.
What About Bad Weather?
According to charging station network company FLO, “charging your EV in the rain or during a storm is generally safe due to the high level of safety standards in EV charging equipment. Electric vehicle chargers and connectors are designed to withstand various weather conditions and are specifically engineered to ensure the safety of both the vehicle and its occupants, guarding against electrical shock.”
EV chargers can handle the rain. So if there’s a little rainwater on the connector, don’t worry. They’re designed to be water resistant. Same with snow: just gently brush or wipe it away. Do not use a connector that is, for whatever reason, submerged in water. And if there’s ice on the connector or the port, clear it away carefully to ensure a proper connection, being sure not to damage them in the process.
Speaking of, never use a charger that appears to be damaged. If you can see exposed wiring or other red flags, it’s best not to risk it. Call your charger company to get advice about what to do or hire an electrician to fix it.
Sources
8 Myths About EV Charging, Debunked, EV Industry Blog, January 11, 2023
Electric Car Charging Safety Tips, Kelley Blue Book, January 25, 2023
Electric car charging safety: Common questions answered, FLO, December 13, 2023
Electric Vehicle Charging Safety, Electrical Safety Foundation (Downloadable Resource)
Electric Vehicle Charging Safety Tips, U.S. Fire Administration (Downloadable Resource)