Despite many people having apprehensions about charging their cars in the rain due to their electrical nature, charging your EV in any weather is safe.
Charging your electric vehicle in the rain should be done as you would in any other weather condition. EV charging systems are fully sealed and built to withstand water intrusion and the elements and remove any potential risks associated with charging in the rain. No matter what the weather is like, EV charging is always possible.
Are home charging ports safe to use in the rain?
One of the benefits of electric cars is that you can charge them both at home and on the go, but are home charging ports installed by qualified suppliers safe to use in the rain?
EV charging points at home are perfectly safe to use in the rain. After all, EVs can go through a carwash without any problem, so a little rain is not going to hurt them either. It may be a little less fun to stand outside in the rain and plug in your car to charge, but other than that, there are no downsides to home charging in the rain.
This means overnight charging is convenient, as you don’t have to worry about the weather turning. Just ensure the home charger is properly installed and the car is plugged in correctly.
Are 3-pin plug EV chargers safe to change in the rain?
3-pin plug chargers are often the go-to solution if drivers can’t get a mounted charger installed or if the driver doesn’t have a driver. During wet weather, it is recommended that the charging block and plug are kept inside to ensure they don’t get damaged. It is also recommended that drivers who use a three-pin plug reduce the charge rate during adverse weather to reduce the risk of shorting. This can usually be done in the charging section of your infotainment menu. However, using a three-pin plug to charge your vehicle isn’t designed for continuous long-term use, therefore most manufacturers recommend only using three-pin EV charging in times of emergency.
As the MET Office issues more amber warnings for rain and flooding, experts from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have released important information on how to charge your EV during this adverse weather.
Author: Electric Vehicles Magazine
