A mobile home charger is often used outdoors, for example on the driveway, at a holiday home, at the campsite, or on the road. That is why we regularly receive the question: Can a portable charger withstand rain and moisture?
In many cases, the answer is yes. Many portable chargers are designed for outdoor use and have an IP rating such as IP65 or IP66. However, that does not mean that a charger is completely waterproof or can be used in a puddle or underwater without risk.
In this article, we honestly explain what a mobile charger can and cannot withstand and how to use it safely outdoors.
What does the IP rating mean?
The IP rating indicates the degree to which a product is protected against dust and water.
Many mobile home chargers, for example, have an IP65 or IP66 rating:
- IP65: dustproof and protected against water jets
- IP66: dustproof and protected against powerful water jets
A mobile charger with such a rating can normally be used in rain, splashing water, and humid weather conditions.
The exact IP rating can vary by model and component. The charging unit, plug, and connector may each have a different degree of protection. Therefore, always check the product specifications and manual for your specific mobile charger.
Can a portable charger be used in the rain?
In most cases, a suitable mobile home charger can simply be used during the rain, provided the charger is connected correctly and shows no damage.
Always check before use whether:
- The charging cable, plugs, and housing are undamaged
- The plugs are fully and securely connected.
- There is no water, dirt, or moisture present in the connections
- The socket or CEE connection is suitable for outdoor use
- The charging unit is not located in a puddle or on flooded ground
- The cable is not taut and cannot be damaged
The stated water protection applies only when the housing, cable, seals, and plugs are completely intact and all connections are correctly connected.
The power outlet is often the most vulnerable part.
For safe outdoor charging, the portable charger is not the only important factor. The power outlet to which the charger is connected must also be suitable for prolonged use and adequately protected against moisture.
A standard household socket is not always suitable for permanent outdoor use. Therefore, preferably use a grounded and splash-proof socket with a tightly closing cover outdoors.
Never leave a plug connection lying loose on the ground. Also, do not use a power strip or coiled extension cord in the rain. The use of an extension cord is discouraged when charging an electric car, as a relatively high power is required for extended periods. This can lead to heat generation, overloading, or damage to the connection.
When is there too much water?
A mobile charger is water-resistant within the limits of its IP rating. That is different from being completely waterproof.
Do not use the mobile charger when:
- The charging unit or plug is lying in a puddle
- The charger has been partially or completely submerged
- There has been waterlogging or flooding
- There is visible water present in a connection
- Moisture is visible behind the screen or inside the housing
- The housing, cable, or plug is damaged or torn
- A loose plug connection lying on a wet surface
In the event of extreme weather, severe waterlogging, or flooding, it is advisable to stop charging and safely switch off the power supply.
Do not touch a wet plug or damaged charger. If in doubt, first switch off the power via the fuse box and have the charger checked.
Preferably do not place the charging unit on the ground.
Even if a mobile charger is suitable for outdoor use, we advise against leaving the charging unit lying on the ground for extended periods.
Water can accumulate on the ground. Additionally, the charger comes into contact with dirt, sand, mud, and other contaminants more quickly. There is also a risk that someone might drive over the cable or that the charging unit might be damaged.
If possible, hang the charging unit on a suitable wall mount, cable holder, or hook. Ensure that the cable has sufficient room to move and is not under tension.
A small canopy or protective cover can help provide extra protection for the charger against rain and direct sunlight. However, ensure that the charging unit can dissipate sufficient heat. Therefore, never cover the charger completely and do not wrap it in plastic or other insulating material.
What should you do if the charger has become very wet?
Has the mobile charger gotten wet from normal rain, but has it not been submerged in water and are there no visible damages? Then first carefully check the charging unit, cable, plugs, and connections.
Do you see moisture in the screen, in a plug, or in the housing? Has the charger been lying in a puddle or submerged in water? If so, do not use the charger again until it has been checked by the supplier or an expert.
Simply allowing it to dry is not always sufficient in the event of possible internal water damage. Moisture can cause corrosion, short circuits, or damage to electronic components.
Never open the housing yourself. Doing so may damage seals and compromise water protection. Opening it yourself may also affect the warranty.
Tips for safe outdoor loading
For safe outdoor use, we recommend the following:
- Use a grounded and suitable connection
- Check the charging cable regularly for damage.
- Keep plugs and sockets clean and dry
- Do not place the charging unit in a puddle or on a wet surface.
- Do not use damaged cables, plugs, or sockets
- If possible, lift the charging unit off the ground.
- Unroll the cable sufficiently during use
- Do not use an unsuitable extension cord or power strip.
- Store the mobile charger in a dry place when not in use for an extended period.
- Always follow the manual and product specifications of the specific model.
Water-resistant is not the same as completely waterproof
A mobile home charger with a suitable IP rating can normally be used safely in rain and humid weather conditions. Nevertheless, sensible use remains important.
A portable charger can usually withstand rain and splashing water, but should not be placed in a puddle, underwater, or in a flooded area. Additionally, pay extra attention to the socket and plug connection, as these parts may be less well protected against moisture than the charging unit itself.
Are you in doubt after heavy rain, flooding, or visible moisture damage? Then stop charging and do not use the charger again until it has been checked. Safety always comes first.