Electricity and water don’t mix. We learn that at an early age. But what about EVs? We ask the question: Can you charge an electric car in the rain?
Can you charge an electric car in the rain?
Yes, all EV chargers are waterproof. Charging connections on electric vehicles are designed to be weather and water-resistant. So, if you get caught in a rain shower and need to charge your car, you can rest assured that these chargers are designed for use in wet weather.
Don’t worry. It’s perfectly safe. The EV charging components are fully sealed and constructed to withstand water, eliminating the risk of electric shock. So, if you’re worried about charging your electric car in the rain or any other weather, don’t worry – it’s 100% safe.
Electric car batteries are able to withstand wet conditions
Yes of course. Electric cars can also be charged when it rains, as the charging plugs and charging stations are fitted with appropriate covering screens and protective layers. This prevents any type of spark, power loss, water mixing or short circuit.
A vehicle’s electrical system is designed to resist rain and water intrusion, as well as annoying dust particles that can cause systems to fail over time. You can charge your electric vehicle outdoors with a 3-pin (granny charger) as long as the outside socket you’re using is a waterproof type with a lockable cover.
If not, you can often leave your granny charger sitting in the rain, while the other end is plugged into a normal household socket. But check the instructions with the 3-pin charger before you do that. Just in case. Most chargers are waterproof and designed to protect the car and its owner from electric shock.
Whether you’re charging your electric vehicle at home or at a public fast charging station, you can rest assured you’ll be safe and secure.
Electric cars are not affected by rain and lightning
Electric vehicles are just as immune to lightning strikes as any other type of vehicle. If you own an electric car, you won’t be exposed to lightning just as you aren’t in a regular car. Lightning strikes hit the metal body and then ground themselves through the tyres. This is the same for every vehicle.
Electric vehicles have many advantages over gasoline-powered vehicles. Not least because their ‘engines’ the battery are usually totally sealed against water. This enables them to drive through deeper water than a normal petrol or diesel vehicle.
The only real issue is if your electric vehicle is flood-damaged as its sat in water for a long time. This can lead to ingress in the battery pack and a short. Most of the time though, a fuse will blow before the EV is damaged to protect the battery.
