Installing an EV charger at home is a great convenience, but it also introduces a new, valuable appliance that needs protection. Just like computers and home entertainment systems, EV chargers are vulnerable to power surges, which can damage the charger or even render it unusable. This is where surge protection comes in, which is critical in safeguarding your investment, especially in areas prone to storms or frequent power fluctuations.

Here’s a closer look at why surge protection is essential for EV chargers and how it can give you peace of mind.

What Is a Power Surge, and How Does It Affect EV Chargers?

A power surge is a sudden spike in voltage that travels through electrical wiring. It is often caused by events like lightning strikes, utility grid switching, or the sudden restoration of power after an outage. Surges can vary in strength, from minor fluctuations that pass unnoticed to strong surges capable of damaging or even destroying electrical equipment.

Because EV chargers are connected directly to a home’s electrical system, they’re particularly susceptible to these sudden increases in voltage. Without surge protection, an unexpected surge can damage the internal components of an EV charger, leading to costly repairs or complete replacement.

Why Surge Protection for EV Chargers Is Essential

1. Protects Your Investment in Your Charger and Vehicle EV chargers are a significant investment, and most are designed to be long-lasting. However, a single power surge can damage sensitive electronic parts, potentially shortening the charger’s lifespan or requiring an expensive repair or replacement. With surge protection, you can avoid these costly interruptions and keep your charger in reliable working condition.

2. Keeps Your Vehicle Safe Since your EV is connected to the charger, a strong surge could travel through the charger and impact the vehicle’s battery management system. EV batteries are designed to handle high-power charging but can be sensitive to unexpected voltage spikes. Proper surge protection helps create a stable charging environment, ensuring the safety of both the charger and the vehicle’s battery.

3. Reduces Downtime and Inconvenience Losing access to your home charger due to a surge-related breakdown can be inconvenient, especially if public chargers aren’t readily accessible nearby. A surge protector can prevent these disruptions, allowing you to maintain consistent charging access and avoid the hassle of emergency repairs.

4. Prepares for Storm Season and Unpredictable Weather In areas prone to severe weather, such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, or snowstorms, the risk of power surges increases. Lightning strikes and storm-related grid interruptions can create powerful surges that easily travel through an unprotected electrical system. A surge protector shields your EV charger during these events, helping to prevent sudden losses in charging capability when you might need it most.

5. Supports Overall Home Electrical Safety A surge protector for your EV charger can also enhance the safety of your home’s electrical system. Many surge protectors are installed at the electrical panel, where they can guard against surges affecting other sensitive appliances. This provides an extra layer of protection for your entire home, making it a worthwhile investment for both your EV charger and other electronic devices.

How Surge Protection Works with EV Chargers

Surge protection for EV chargers usually involves installing a device that diverts excess voltage away from the charger, grounding it safely. This process occurs in microseconds, so it doesn’t disrupt regular charging and continuously monitors voltage levels to ensure safe operation. There are two main types of surge protection solutions for EV chargers:

Point-of-Use Surge Protectors: These units are installed at the charger itself or in the dedicated circuit to help protect it from localized surges. They’re easy to install and can work well as an additional line of defense.

Whole-Home Surge Protectors: These are installed at the main electrical panel and provide broad protection for your home’s entire electrical system. They’re highly effective for safeguarding all appliances and are especially useful if you have multiple valuable electronics or live in an area with frequent power fluctuations.

Is Surge Protection Worth It?

Given the investment in an EV charger and the potential for expensive repairs, surge protection is an affordable way to ensure longevity and reliability. Not just that, surge protection is highly, highly recommended. The cost of installing surge protection is minimal compared to the potential cost of repairing or replacing a damaged charger—or worse, dealing with damage to your EV. With the right surge protection solution, you can keep your charging setup secure and enjoy uninterrupted EV charging, rain or shine.

Ready to Protect Your EV Charger?

At Thomas Edison Electric, we offer comprehensive surge protection options to keep your EV charger safe. Whether you need a whole-home surge protector or additional point-of-use protection, our certified electricians can help you choose and install the right solution. With our expertise, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your EV charger is protected from unexpected surges, allowing you to focus on what matters most: enjoying the road ahead.

Need help with EV charger installation, maintenance, or repairs? Give us a call today!