Can You Charge Your EV in the Rain or Snow?
Yes, you can charge your EV when it is raining or snowing. Your EV was built so that it could be charged safely in these and other weather conditions.
Yes, charging an electric car in the rain is perfectly safe. But when you find yourself at the crossroads of inclement weather and low battery power, we understand why you might hesitate. We’ve all learned that water and electricity shouldn’t mix!
Here’s why, in almost all circumstances, you can charge your EV with confidence in the rain, snow, and other inclement weather conditions.
Is it safe to charge an electric car in the rain or snow?
Yes, it is safe to charge an electric car in the rain. Electric vehicle charging equipment is designed to be weatherproof and meet strict battery charging safety standards as outlined by the Code of Federal Regulations and the National Electrical Code so rain or snow should not pose a risk during charging.
Having to restrict vehicle charging based on weather conditions would severely limit the usefulness and function of electric vehicles, which are designed to be practical and reliable in diverse environments.
Rain or shine, make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and safety recommendations when charging outdoors to ensure a safe and efficient charging experience.
Outdoor home chargers vs. public chargers in the rain
Many electric vehicle owners charge their cars in the safety of their garage, where the charging process is shielded from outdoor elements. But if you need to charge your EV at an outdoor at-home charger or a public charging station, the only thing you’ll need to worry about is keeping yourself protected from the elements.
Modern outdoor EV chargers and their electrical components are designed with robust weatherproof capabilities to ensure that your EV is fully charged, rain or shine.
Charging regulations and safeguards for charging in the rain
Charging regulations
The Code of Federal Regulations outlines safety standards and regulations for consumer products (among many other things), while The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides a set of regulations that governs the installation and safety standards of charging stations for electric vehicles.
The NEC, in particular, requires that EV chargers are properly installed and operated safely, including considerations for weather and rain. NEC standards may include requirements for weatherproof enclosures, waterproof connectors, and proper grounding to protect against electrical hazards caused by water exposure.
Compliance with NEC regulations helps to assure EV drivers that they’ll be protected when powering up their vehicles, even when outdoor conditions aren’t ideal.
Charging safeguards
EV charging stations are engineered with safety in mind, with features like weatherproof enclosures and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), the latter of which immediately cut power when water makes close contact with live electricity.
These charging elements are also designed to resist dirt, water, dust, and other environmental factors that can affect an EV’s electrical current and ability to sustain power.
It is recommended that outdoor EV chargers have an ingress protection, or IP rating, such as IP65 or IP66, which means that charging equipment is designed to operate safely in the rain and wet areas. EV charging equipment is also made from high-quality materials that withstand exposure to moisture and adverse weather conditions and are thoroughly tested for durability.
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Yes. To best support all EV makes and models, EV charging stations are designed to prevent electrical shock, even in rainy conditions.
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Yes, it is generally safe to charge your car in a thunderstorm, although it’s likely not ideal for you, the driver! Keep in mind that it’s never ideal to have your car outside in extreme weather like hail, flooding, or in a hurricane, as that will put your car at risk for damage.
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You do not need to buy a weatherproof EV charging port cover to charge your car safely in the rain or snow, but these covers may prevent wear and tear on your car.
2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus with options shown.
THE MAZDA CX-70 AND CX-90 PHEVs: NOT JUST FAIR-WEATHER FRIENDS
The Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) represent Mazda's commitment to innovation. Both models showcase the latest in EV technology while providing the comfort, safety, and performance you expect from a Mazda.
As PHEVs, the CX-70 and CX-90 provide all-electric propulsion for shorter drives and commutes, but can switch automatically to their internal combustion engines for longer journeys.
With their sleek designs, premium interiors, and advanced safety features, the CX-70 and CX-90 PHEVs offer refined driving experiences for every driver. See them for yourself—build your CX-70 or CX-90 online or visit your local dealership for a test drive today.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest competitive information available at the time of posting. Information herein is subject to change without notice and without Mazda incurring any obligations. Please review a variety of resources prior to making a purchasing decision. Visit Resource Center for more articles.