Fall brings cooler temperatures and more rainfall. If you have an outdoor EV charger, it may be at risk of moisture damage because of these conditions. These fall-specific tips can protect your EV charger to ensure reliable and safe charging through fall, winter and beyond.
Choose the Right Location
An EV charger should be in a spot that doesn’t experience water runoff or pooling. Choose a location that’s far from gutters, downspouts and sprinkler systems. It helps to have your charger installed in an elevated position to avoid standing water. An ideal location would be on a covered porch that provides some protection from the elements.
Consider the IP Rating
EV chargers usually come with IP, or ingress protection, ratings. Choose a charger that has a rating of IP65 or higher. This ensures ample protection from water, dust, wind, pests and other concerns.
Use a Weatherproof Housing Box
The connections for your EV charger should be within a housing box that is electrically rated. This design protects your charger from rain, snow, ice, UV radiation and extreme fluctuations in temperature.
Seal Around Your Charger
Sealants should be used around your charger’s housing. Make sure to use electrical-grade products that withstand the elements. Sealing areas like cable entries and conduit fittings prevents moisture from getting into sensitive components.
Use and Store Cables Correctly
Whether you’re plugging your electric vehicle into your charger or simply storing the cables, consider their placement. Make sure water can divert away from connections instead of pooling near them. This also prevents sagging and kinks that can damage interior wiring.
If you plan to be away from home for an extended period or won’t need to charge your vehicle for a few days, store your cables inside your garage. Wall-mounted hooks and holsters are ideal for storage away from moisture, pests and foot traffic.
Perform Routine Inspections and Repairs
Make sure that you’re inspecting your EV charger in early fall each year. Check to see if seals need to be replaced or if damage needs repairing. Remove any debris that’s accumulating nearby, as this can lead to moisture becoming trapped near your charger.
Schedule an annual professional inspection of the interior of your charger for signs of water damage or wear and tear. Repairing issues early on can protect the safety and integrity of your charger and extend its lifespan.
Protect your EV charger by following these helpful tips this fall. Contact us at Ace Home Services in Phoenix, AZ for professional EV charger installation or other EV charger support services.