Buyer's guide

Can you charge an EV in the rain?

EV connectors are designed to be used outdoors. The part to worry about is the wall end.

The short answer

Yes. The car inlet and Type 2 connector are designed for outdoor use, and a portable charger with an IP66 control box is protected against dust and powerful jets of water. What must stay dry is the plug-to-outlet connection at the wall: use an outlet under cover or a weatherproof outdoor outlet with its cover closed, keep the control box off the ground, and never charge from an outlet that's been flooded or is full of water.

  • Car end: fine in rain. Connectors seal when locked in.
  • Control box: IP66 handles rain and hosing, not sitting in a puddle. Hang it or rest it off the ground.
  • Wall end: undercover or a weatherproof outlet. This is where water does damage.
  • Our chargers: the SEVR 10A portable charger is IP66 and IK10 (impact rated).
What the code means

IP ratings decoded

RatingDustWaterGood for
IP44Objects over 1 mmSplashes from any directionCovered areas
IP55Dust protectedLow-pressure jetsOutdoors, sheltered
IP66Dust tightPowerful jets of waterOutdoors in heavy rain
IP67Dust tightTemporary immersion up to 1 mPlaces that may flood briefly
The first digit is solids (dust), the second is water. IK ratings, such as IK10, are for impact resistance.
Set up an outdoor spot

Outdoor charging checklist

  1. Use a weatherproof outlet rated for outdoor use, ideally under an eave or carport. A licensed electrician can fit one.
  2. Keep the cover closed around the plug while charging, if the outlet has an in-use cover.
  3. Lift the control box off the ground on a hook or bracket.
  4. Route the cable where it won't sit in water or be driven over.
  5. Dry before you plug in. Don't connect a wet plug to an outlet.
  6. After a storm or flood, have any outlet that got wet checked before using it.
Our pick

Chargers we recommend

No install needed

SEVR EV Portable Charger (10A)

Type 210 A max2.3 kW~13 km/h4.5 mIP66

IP66 and IK10 control box, 4.5 m cable.

$183.99Lowest price in Australia · free shipping · 3-year warranty
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Questions

Frequently asked

Is it safe to charge an EV in the rain?

Yes, if the charger is weather rated and the wall outlet is undercover or weatherproof. EV connectors and inlets are designed for outdoor use.

What does IP66 mean on an EV charger?

Dust tight (6) and protected against powerful jets of water (6). It does not mean the charger can sit submerged.

Can I leave my portable charger outside?

An IP66 charger can handle weather, but UV and constant exposure age cables. Store it in the boot or garage when you're not using it, and keep the control box off the ground when you are.

Can I charge from an outdoor power point?

Yes, if it's a weatherproof outlet in good condition. Don't use an indoor-type outlet that's exposed to rain.

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