Installing your EV charger outside…Read this first

Installing your EV charger outside…Read this first

If you’re one of the many new EV owners or soon-to-be drivers, you’re likely considering where to install your EV charger. One of the most common questions is: Should I install my EV charger outside? The answer might surprise you. 

While many assume installing an EV charger inside the garage is the default, outdoor installations are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you don’t have a garage or prefer the convenience of charging in your driveway, an outdoor EV charging station could be the perfect solution for you.  

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations and answer your most pressing concerns about installing an outdoor EV charger.  

Why consider an outdoor EV charger? 

Convenience 

An outdoor EV charger offers incredible convenience, especially if you like to park your car in the driveway or under a carport. In fact, many people that have garages don’t use them to house their vehicles, so having the charger outside can fit easily into their existing lifestyle. You’ll appreciate the convenience of simply pulling into your driveway and plugging in, without worrying about running cables under garage doors or navigating tight spaces. 

Plus, if your driveway is closer to your home’s electrical panel, installing outdoors could save on installation and wiring costs. 

Flexibility 

Installing your EV charger outside gives you more flexibility in where and how you park. You can mount the charger on the side of your house, on a post, or near your carport—essentially wherever it’s most convenient for your parking situation. For those who prefer the ease of driveway parking or lack a garage entirely, an outdoor EV charging station can be a game-changer. 

FLO offers pedestal mounts, which give you the option to install your charger at the most practical spot, providing flexibility for different parking arrangements. This is a great option if you need to park further from your home or don’t want to drill into your house. 

Is it safe to install an EV charger outside? 

Yes, it’s safe! But you need to make sure you’re choosing the right charger and following the correct installation procedures. Here’s what to keep in mind: 

Weatherproofing 

Not all EV chargers are designed to withstand the elements and understanding enclosure ratings is essential in navigating outdoor options. Chargers with a type 4X rating are particularly well-suited for outdoor use because they offer protection against water, dust, and even corrosion, making them ideal for areas exposed to harsh weather.  

Look for chargers that are specifically rated for outdoor use, like the FLO Home series. FLO’s outdoor EV chargers are designed with weatherproofing in mind and built to handle rain, snow, and even salt air in coastal areas. They are rigorously tested to ensure durability in extreme weather conditions. 

Professional installation 

When installing an outdoor EV charger, it’s crucial to opt for a hardwired connection rather than a plug-in model. Hardwiring ensures a safer and more durable connection for outdoor conditions. Always hire a licensed professional electrician to ensure the installation complies with applicable safety regulations and meets the specific needs of your home’s electrical system. 

How do I make sure that my station is only used by people I want to be charging? 

Restricting access to your charger is another consideration. Depending on where you install it, you may want to limit who can use your charger by choosing a unit with smart security features, such as lockable access. The FLO app makes it easy to control access to your charger with just a tap on your phone. It even sends you a notification if someone attempts to connect to your charger while it’s in restricted access mode, giving you peace of mind. 

How does charging outside impact performance? 

Some people worry that extreme weather conditions might impact their EV’s ability to charge. Fortunately, modern EV chargers are built to perform well in a wide range of temperatures, and most EVs themselves are designed to operate efficiently in varying climates.  

Cold and hot weather charging 

Charging your EV outside in cold or hot weather is generally not a problem. In fact, many EV chargers are designed to handle temperature extremes. You can also pre-condition your vehicle while it’s plugged in. This means you can warm up or cool down the cabin while your car is still connected to the charger, which helps preserve the battery’s charge for driving. 

Read more: EVs can take the heat: best practices to follow in hot weather 

Each charger will provide a temperature operating range. For instance, FLO Home chargers are built to perform in temperatures as low as -40°F and as high as 122°F (-40°C to 50°C), so whether you’re charging in a frigid winter or a sweltering summer, you can rest assured that your outdoor EV charging station will get the job done. 

Rain, snow, and sleet 

Can you charge your EV in the rain or snow? Absolutely. This is one of those myths that you might be afraid to ask about, but we’re happy to put your mind at ease. You can connect and disconnect from a charger in the pouring rain without fear. As for the charger itself? High-quality outdoor chargers are designed to be robustly weatherproof. Charging in wet conditions is safe, and the charger itself will continue to perform as expected, even in sleet or heavy downpours. 

Common mistakes to avoid 

While installing an outdoor EV charger is generally straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to avoid: 

• Running cables under the garage door: This is not a safe or long-term solution. The cable will take a beating every time you close the garage door. It’s best to have a dedicated installation for where you park your car, either inside or outside, that meets safety standards. 
• Choosing a non-weatherproof charger: Ensure your charger is specifically rated for outdoor use.  Without a high weatherproof rating, you could end up needing to replace it after the next storm—right when you need it most.  
• DIY installation: Installing an EV charger requires professional expertise. Always hire a licensed electrician to handle the installation, especially outdoors to ensure the installation meets the highest safety standards. 
• Assuming all chargers are safety certified: A home EV charger connects your two biggest assets – your home and your EV – so it’s crucial to ensure it has the right  safety certifications such as being UL-listed. Many chargers on the market lack proper certification which can pose safety risks and liability issues.   
• Not paying attention to aesthetics: An outdoor charger will become part of your overall house design, so ensure the design is subtle enough to blend in. You may even have community or homeowner association (HOA) covenant rules that you need to follow. 

So, can you install your home EV charger outside? 

In short, yes! Installing the right EV charger outside is safe, practical, and can be more convenient than an indoor setup. Even if you have a garage, you might still prefer the flexibility and ease of an outdoor EV charging station. With weatherproof options like the FLO Home charger, outdoor installation gives you the freedom to charge your EV wherever it makes the most sense for your home and lifestyle. 

So, whether you’re installing your charger on the side of your house or using a FLO pedestal for a more distant parking spot, outdoor EV charging is a great option to consider. Just make sure to choose the right charger, ensure professional installation, and enjoy the convenience and reliability of charging your EV from the comfort of your driveway.