(UK) I have had installed an outside 3 pin power point (mains electricity) and a separate inside timer switch - so i can connect the cables between power point and car and it'll switch on (and off) for charging during the night rate (economy 7) period. 

 

I am told the plug that attaches to the car and the other end plug that goes into the power point, also the cable and the charging unit are all weather proof. but how weather proof? Is it all safe etc during torrential rain or snow for example?

 

The cables and charging unit are on the ground in the open air and in a shady spot. Would it be advisable to tuck as much as possible of them under the front of the car for some protection from the elements?

 

Also, whenever i don't need to use a gadget to the full length of a cable I still uncoil /unwind the cable to its full extent so as to minimise heat from the cable. The position of the car in relation to the external power point is very close, such that the cable tends to coil up of its own accord. Should I unwind it as much as possible regardless? 

 

tia

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you find out what the "IP" ratings of all of the components, plugs and sockets that you are using? That will tell you how waterproof and dust proof they have been tested to. If you do not need a long lead can you get a shorter one made up?

Noted, thank you.

 

1.0. The charger (Box sealing class) is IP 65/67

 

2.0  The cable is by Dekra. i have emailed them with the details from the markings on the cable to find out the IP rating. 

 

3.0. The plug into the mains power is KING-GOOD KG-007 (this is a Taiwan company: i have contacted them to find out. 

 

4.0 The plug that attaches to the car has  

>PA66-GF20-GB10 

PBT+PC<

 

but no manufacture name. 

 

5.0 The outside mains power point is IP 66 (installer's verbal confirmation)

 

 

 

---

Thanks to whomsoever, I can now edit! 

 

Edited 14 June, 20214 yr by exaudi

For when i am someplace that i might need to use my 3 pin charger and maybe with an extension cable from others property i have a sealable box with me in the boot.

I've always wondered about this, most public chargers I've seen are out in the open, no cover, including Tesla.

 

Can just see the picture on a stormy day with the wind and rain blowing sideways as owners try to connect a dirty wet tethered plug/ cable and use a touch screen on the charger working with rain or snow blowing against it.

 

Note that IP ratings will only apply once connenctors are fully engaged and I presume they assume the connection was made while everything was dry and clean. Even then, the flap on the car needs to remain open while charging.

 

One would hope that chargers of any description are fully safe and protected against earth leakage, residual current leaks, bad/dirty/high resistance connections and overcurrent/short circuit. High power 600v dc would be instantly fatal if somehow a person became even slightly connected.

 

Cables and insulation gets damaged. Time will tell how much of a problem this will be.

 

Apparently thefts of cables are on the increase.

 

 

Charge ports and charger flaps can be very exposed and can fill with snow or ice during charging.  Some have flaps that are heated, some need heat from the cabin and some need thawing to get open.

The AC plugs are locked in place when the car is locked.   Tethered plugs are not a problem.

Edited 14 June, 20214 yr by e-Roottoot

useful info here - https://uk.rs-online.com/web/generalDisplay.html?id=ideas-and-advice/ip-ratings

 

We have outside sensor lighting which in circa 16 years hasn't been adversely affected by torrential rain and/or steadily falling snow.  Then again i do not climb up a ladder to touch the fittings during inclement weather.