As fall sets in and the weather gets colder, your charger for your electric vehicle will undergo some changes, and this will impact how well it works. Cold temperatures slow the flow of electricity, and the wet weather that comes with fall and winter can cause moisture buildup and corrosion. Paying attention to your charger before the harsher weather sets in can save you time, money, and stress later.

Check the Charger and Cables for Wear

Before you do anything, you need to give your EV charger a good examination. Check the housing to see if there are any cracks. Also, check the cords for fraying and cracks. Since cold air makes rubber and plastic stiffer, small cracks can turn into bigger problems.

If water gets into the housing or cable, it can cause the EV charger to short out or cease functioning. Having professionals fix issues before the cold comes can make certain that your charger will function through the fall, winter, and many years to come.

Protect the Charger From Moisture

Fall weather is unpredictable. One day, temperatures are mild and comfortable, and the next day, you may see torrential rains or even early snow. Chargers that are not protected from the elements can be subject to moisture, which can get into the ports. Have your charger installed in a garage, or get a protective cover if you don’t have a garage on your property.

Keep an Eye on Temperature Swings

Fall weather can be warm during the day and then drop considerably at night. Constant changes such as these can stress both your car battery and your EV charger. If possible, plug your car in to charge when the temperatures are warmer. Charging will be more stable.

Practice Safe Charging Habits

If you haven’t been implementing good charging habits, now is the time to start. Make sure your hands are dry before you interact with the charger. Wipe the handle and cord if they have been exposed to any kind of precipitation. When your cable is not in use, store it off the ground so that it doesn’t get damaged.

Plan for Peace of Mind

During the fall and winter, you will likely be doing more driving, especially when family gatherings and festivities are underway. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a charger that fails when you need it most.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

An annual inspection is beneficial for keeping your EV charger in top shape. This enables an electrician to find and fix problems before they turn into something major.

Fall should be a season of comfort, not stress, and with a little preparation, your EV charger will be ready to support you all the way through winter. For EV charger installation, contact Nichols Electric and Plumbing in Rochester, NY.