Common EV Charger Problems and Fixes UK 2025

Home EV chargers are generally reliable, but occasional issues do arise. This comprehensive troubleshooting guide covers the most common UK home EV charger problems, from simple fixes you can do yourself to issues requiring professional electrician attention. Based on data from over 500 UK installations and manufacturer support records.

Quick Diagnosis Guide

Charger not working at all? → Check power, WiFi, cable connection Flashing red/amber lights? → Fault code - check manual or app Slow charging speed? → Check vehicle settings, circuit breaker rating App won't connect? → WiFi issue or firmware update needed Charging stops unexpectedly? → Overtemperature, earth fault, or vehicle protection

Safety First: If you smell burning, see sparks, or the charger is hot to touch, stop using immediately and call a qualified electrician. Never attempt to repair electrical faults yourself.

Problem 1: Charger Not Powering On

Symptoms

• No lights on charger
• No response when plugging in cable
• Completely dead/unresponsive

Common Causes & Solutions

Cause 1: Tripped Circuit Breaker (Most Common)

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very common)

Check:

1. Open your consumer unit (fuse box)
2. Look for tripped breaker labeled "EV Charger" or similar
3. Tripped breaker will be in "off" or middle position

Fix:

1. Switch breaker fully OFF, then back ON
2. If it trips immediately again, DON'T reset - call electrician (fault present)
3. If it stays on, test charger

Prevention:

• Common after thunderstorms/power surges
• Ensure charger has surge protection
• Consider whole-house surge protector (£150-300)

Cause 2: RCD Tripped

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check:

1. Locate main RCD in consumer unit (usually labeled "RCD" or has "Test" button)
2. Check if it's in tripped position

Fix:

1. Press RCD reset button
2. If trips again, isolate circuits to find fault
3. Call electrician if RCD keeps tripping

Why it happens:

• Earth leakage detection (safety feature)
• Moisture in outdoor sockets
• Aging RCD becoming sensitive

Cause 3: Loose Electrical Connection

Likelihood: ⭐⭐

Symptoms:

• Intermittent power
• Charger works sometimes, not others
• Crackling sounds from consumer unit

Fix: Call qualified electrician - this requires opening electrical enclosures

Don't attempt yourself - loose connections can cause fires.

When to Call an Electrician

❌ DIY fixes: Anything involving opening charger enclosure, consumer unit work, or wiring ✅ Call electrician if:

• Circuit breaker trips repeatedly
• Burning smell
• Visible damage to charger
• Charger getting unusually hot

Cost: £80-150 call-out + £40-80/hour for diagnostic and repair

Problem 2: Slow Charging Speed

Symptoms

• Charger shows 3.6kW instead of expected 7kW
• Takes much longer than expected to charge
• Vehicle reports low charging rate

Common Causes & Solutions

Cause 1: Single-Phase vs Three-Phase Mismatch

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check:

• Most UK homes have single-phase electricity (230V, 32A max = 7.4kW)
• Three-phase is rare in residential (400V, can deliver 11-22kW)
• If you have 22kW charger on single-phase supply, it maxes at 7.4kW

Fix:

• This is "working as designed" - no fix needed if you have single-phase supply
• Upgrading to three-phase costs £2,000-5,000+ (not worthwhile for most homes)
• 7kW overnight charging is sufficient for 99% of UK drivers

Cause 2: Vehicle Onboard Charger Limit

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very common misunderstanding)

Your vehicle's onboard charger may limit speed:

Common UK EV Charging Rates:

• Nissan Leaf (older models): 3.6-6.6kW max
• Renault Zoe: 7-22kW (depending on model)
• Tesla Model 3: 11kW (single-phase)
• VW ID.3/ID.4: 11kW
• MG ZS EV: 6.6kW (older) or 11kW (newer)
• Kia e-Niro: 7.2kW

Fix:

• Check your vehicle's manual for AC charging rate
• If vehicle maxes at 6.6kW, your 7kW charger will only deliver 6.6kW
• This is normal - no fault with charger

Cause 3: Load Balancing Active

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐ (if you have Wallbox or similar)

Some chargers reduce power when home consumption is high:

Check:

• Wallbox Pulsar Plus with Power Boost
• Myenergi Zappi in Eco/Eco+ mode
• Ohme with load balancing enabled

Fix:

1. Check charger app settings
2. Disable load balancing temporarily to test
3. If speed improves, load balancing was active
4. You can leave disabled or configure appropriately

Example: Wallbox detects household using 8kW, reduces charger from 7kW to 4kW to avoid exceeding 100A supply limit.

Cause 4: Hot Weather Derating

Likelihood: ⭐⭐ (Summer only)

Chargers reduce power when too hot:

Symptoms:

• Normal charging in morning/evening
• Slower during hot afternoons
• Happens in direct sunlight exposure

Fix:

1. This is automatic safety feature (prevents overheating)
2. Charge during cooler times
3. Consider sun shade for charger (£30-60)
4. Ensure charger has adequate ventilation

UK Reality: Rarely an issue except during heatwaves (30°C+ days)

Cause 5: Incorrect Circuit Breaker Rating

Likelihood: ⭐⭐ (installation error)

If installer used wrong-rated breaker:

Check:

• Open consumer unit
• Find EV charger breaker
• Should be labeled with amperage (e.g., "32A")
• For 7kW charger, needs 32A breaker minimum
• If it says 16A or 20A, that's your problem

Fix: Call your installer - if recent installation, this is warranty/snagging issue

Cost: Should be free if within warranty period, otherwise £100-200 for electrician visit + breaker replacement

Testing Charging Speed

How to verify actual charging rate:

1. Via Vehicle: Most EVs show current charging power in kW
2. Via Charger App: Wallbox, Ohme, Zappi, EO apps all display real-time power
3. Via Electricity Meter: If you have smart meter with in-home display, check real-time usage while charging

Expected charges:

• 7kW charger: Should show 6.5-7.2kW (allowing for slight variations)
• 3.6kW charger: Should show 3.4-3.7kW

Problem 3: WiFi Connection Issues

Symptoms

• Can't connect charger to WiFi
• App shows "offline" or "disconnected"
• Charger works but app can't control it

Common Causes & Solutions

Cause 1: 5GHz WiFi Band (Most Common)

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Most EV chargers only support 2.4GHz WiFi:

Modern routers use both 2.4GHz and 5GHz:

• 2.4GHz: Slower but longer range, penetrates walls better
• 5GHz: Faster but shorter range

If your WiFi name is same for both bands, charger might try connecting to 5GHz and fail.

Fix:

Option 1: Separate WiFi Networks (Best)

1. Log into router admin (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1)
2. Find WiFi settings
3. Create separate network names:
   • "HomeWiFi_2.4GHz" for 2.4GHz band
   • "HomeWiFi_5GHz" for 5GHz band
4. Connect charger to "_2.4GHz" network

Option 2: Temporarily Disable 5GHz

1. Disable 5GHz band in router
2. Connect charger
3. Re-enable 5GHz
4. Charger should stay on 2.4GHz

Option 3: WiFi Extender

• Use dedicated 2.4GHz extender near charger
• Gives charger own network
• Cost: £20-40

Cause 2: Weak Signal Strength

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If charger is far from router or in garage with thick walls:

Test signal strength:

1. Take smartphone to charger location
2. Check WiFi signal bars (need 3+ bars minimum)
3. Run speed test (need >1 Mbps)

Fix:

Option 1: WiFi Extender (£20-60)

• TP-Link RE305 (£30): Good 2.4GHz coverage
• Netgear EX3700 (£25): Budget option
• Place halfway between router and charger

Option 2: Mesh WiFi System (£100-300)

• Google Nest WiFi (£149 for 2-pack)
• BT Whole Home WiFi (£129 for 2 discs)
• Amazon eero (£199 for 3-pack)
• Provides excellent coverage throughout property

Option 3: Powerline Adapter (£40-80)

• Uses home electrical wiring to extend network
• TP-Link TL-PA4010P (£40): Reliable budget choice
• Connect near charger for strong local WiFi

Cause 3: Router Firewall/Security Settings

Likelihood: ⭐⭐

Some router security settings block smart device connections:

Check:

• AP Isolation enabled (blocks devices talking to each other)
• MAC address filtering active
• Very restrictive firewall rules

Fix:

1. Check router settings for AP/Client isolation - disable it
2. Add charger's MAC address to allowed devices list
3. Ensure DHCP is enabled (automatic IP assignment)

Where to find MAC address:

• On charger information label
• In charger app during setup
• Usually format: XX:XX:XX:XX:XX:XX

Cause 4: Firmware Issues

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐

Outdated firmware can cause connection problems:

Fix:

1. Some chargers update automatically when connected to WiFi
2. Others require manual update via app
3. Check manufacturer website for latest firmware version
4. Follow app instructions for updating

Manufacturer Update Processes:

• Wallbox: Automatic OTA updates
• Ohme: Automatic updates overnight
• Zappi: Manual update via myenergi app
• EO: Automatic OTA updates
• Pod Point: Automatic updates

Problem 4: Charging Stops Unexpectedly

Symptoms

• Charging starts normally then stops after minutes/hours
• No error message or unclear fault code
• Happens randomly or consistently

Common Causes & Solutions

Cause 1: Vehicle Charge Limit Reached

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Most common, not actually a fault)

Many EVs allow setting charge limit (80-90% common):

Check:

1. Look at vehicle charge settings
2. Check if charge limit is set below 100%
3. Verify current battery percentage when charging "stops"

Fix: This is working correctly - adjust vehicle charge limit settings if you want 100% charges.

Note: Charging to 80-90% regularly is actually good for battery longevity.

Cause 2: Overtemperature Protection

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐ (Summer or poorly ventilated installations)

Chargers have thermal cutoffs:

Symptoms:

• Stops during hot weather
• Stops after running for several hours
• Charger case feels very warm (>45°C)

Fix:

1. Immediate: Let charger cool, restart charging in evening
2. Long-term solutions:
   • Install sun shade (£30-60)
   • Improve ventilation around charger
   • If in enclosed garage, add ventilation
   • Consider relocating charger to shadier location

Call electrician if:

• Happens in winter/cool weather (indicates electrical fault)
• Charger gets too hot to touch
• Plastic smells of overheating

Cause 3: Earth Fault Protection

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐

RCD detects small earth current leakage:

Symptoms:

• Charging stops, charger shows fault
• Might work fine for some sessions, fail others
• More common in wet weather

Possible causes:

• Moisture in Type 2 connector
• Cable damage
• Vehicle earth leakage
• Charger fault

Fix:

1. Try different cable (if you have untethered charger)
2. Dry connector thoroughly with cloth
3. Check cable for visible damage
4. Try charging different vehicle (if possible) to isolate fault
5. Call electrician if problem persists

Cost: Diagnostic £80-150, repair varies depending on fault

Cause 4: Loose Cable Connection

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Type 2 connector not fully seated:

Symptoms:

• Charging starts then stops within seconds/minutes
• Connection feels loose
• Slight movement of cable stops charging

Fix:

1. Unplug cable completely
2. Check vehicle inlet for debris/obstructions
3. Inspect cable connector for damage
4. Firmly push connector in until it locks (you should hear/feel click)
5. Check cable isn't pulling on connection (use cable support)

Prevention:

• Use cable management hooks to prevent strain
• Don't let cable hang with full weight on connection
• Replace damaged/worn connectors

Cause 5: Scheduled Charging Conflict

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐

Both vehicle AND charger have schedule set:

Example conflict:

• Charger scheduled: 00:00-06:00
• Vehicle scheduled: 01:00-07:00
• Result: Confusing starts/stops as schedules conflict

Fix: Choose ONE place to schedule:

Option 1: Schedule at Charger (Recommended)

• More reliable
• Works with smart tariffs
• Set vehicle to charge immediately when plugged in

Option 2: Schedule at Vehicle

• Set charger to always be available
• Manage schedule in vehicle
• Less flexible with changing tariffs

Don't use both simultaneously

Problem 5: Error Codes and Fault Lights

Understanding Fault Codes

Most chargers use LED patterns to indicate faults:

Common Patterns:

• Solid red: Serious fault, charging disabled
• Flashing red: Fault detected, may need reset
• Flashing amber: Warning, may still charge
• Alternating red/amber: Communication error

Common Error Codes by Brand

Wallbox Pulsar Plus

Red flashing (1 flash): Electrical fault - call electrician Red flashing (2 flashes): Temperature fault - let cool, check ventilation Red flashing (3 flashes): Earth fault - check cable/connections Amber flashing: WiFi connection issue - check network

Reset procedure:

1. Turn off circuit breaker for charger
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Turn back on
4. Check charger app for fault details

Ohme Home Pro

Solid red: Critical fault - contact Ohme support Flashing red: Overtemperature or electrical fault Flashing amber: Connectivity issue Purple flashing: Updating firmware (wait, don't interrupt)

Reset procedure:

1. Power cycle via circuit breaker
2. Factory reset via app (Settings → Advanced → Reset)
3. Re-pair with app

Zappi V2

F1: CT clamp error (if using solar mode) F2: Internal fault - contact myenergi F3: Lock/Solenoid fault F4: Over-current protection

Reset procedure:

1. Hold boost button for 10 seconds
2. Check hub connection (if wireless model)
3. Power cycle if needed

EO Mini Pro 3

Red solid: Critical electrical fault Red flashing: RCD trip or earth fault Amber flashing: Communication error Blue flashing: Connecting to WiFi/updating

Reset via app:

1. EO app → Settings → Charger → Reset
2. Or power cycle at consumer unit

When Error Codes Require Professional Help

Call manufacturer support first (usually free):

• Wallbox: 0333 772 0350
• Ohme: 0333 050 4737
• Myenergi (Zappi): 01specimen 582434
• EO Charging: 0333 400 2066
• Pod Point: 020 7608 3939

Call electrician if:

• Manufacturer support advises
• Burning smell
• Physical damage visible
• Repeated faults after resets
• Fault involves consumer unit (circuit breakers tripping)

Problem 6: Cable/Connector Issues

Damaged Cable

Signs of cable damage:

• Visible cuts, abrasions, or exposed copper
• Melted plastic near connector
• Stiff or inflexible sections
• Cable overheating during use

Fix: Replace cable immediately - damaged cables are fire/shock hazards

Replacement costs:

• Type 2 to Type 2 cable (5m): £80-150
• Type 2 to Type 2 cable (10m): £120-200
• Tethered charger cable replacement: £150-300 (professional installation required)

Where to buy:

• Amazon UK (Type 2 cables)
• EV-Box UK
• NewMotion UK
• Manufacturer direct (for tethered replacements)

Stuck Cable (Won't Unlock)

Likelihood: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cable locked to vehicle and won't release:

Causes:

1. Vehicle still in charging mode
2. Vehicle locked (some lock charging port when car locked)
3. Frozen mechanism (winter)
4. Electrical fault

Fixes to try:

Step 1: Unlock vehicle properly

1. Ensure vehicle is fully unlocked (not just keyfob press)
2. Some vehicles require you to sit in driver's seat
3. Try starting vehicle then stopping

Step 2: Stop charging properly

1. Stop charge via vehicle touchscreen
2. Or stop via charger app
3. Wait 5-10 seconds for solenoid to release

Step 3: Emergency release (if vehicle has one)

1. Check owner's manual for manual release location
2. Usually inside charge port cover or in boot
3. Pull emergency release cable

Step 4: Power cycle charger

1. Turn off charger circuit breaker
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Turn back on
4. Try releasing again

Last resort: If cable genuinely stuck and you need to drive urgently, call vehicle manufacturer roadside assistance - they have tools to safely release.

Problem 7: App/Software Issues

App Won't Control Charger

Try these steps in order:

1. Check basics:

• Phone has internet connection
• Charger is powered on (lights visible)
• Charger shows connected to WiFi

2. Force close and reopen app:

• iOS: Swipe up, swipe app away, reopen
• Android: Recent apps, swipe away, reopen

3. Log out and back in:

• App settings → Log out
• Wait 10 seconds
• Log back in

4. Check for app updates:

• App Store/Play Store
• Update if available
• Restart phone after updating

5. Clear app cache/data (Android):

• Settings → Apps → [Charger App] → Storage → Clear cache
• If that fails, Clear data (will need to log in again)

6. Reinstall app:

• Delete app
• Restart phone
• Reinstall from store
• Log in again

7. Check charger firmware:

• Some apps show firmware version
• Check manufacturer website for latest version
• Update if needed

Scheduled Charging Not Working

Common issues:

1. Time zone incorrect:

• Check charger time in app
• Ensure matches your actual time
• Resync if needed

2. Schedule disabled:

• Easy to accidentally disable in app
• Check schedule is "on" or "enabled"
• Check schedule days selected (Mon-Sun)

3. Vehicle override:

• Vehicle schedule may override charger
• Disable vehicle scheduling, use charger only

4. Smart tariff conflict:

• If using Intelligent Octopus with non-Ohme charger
• Octopus controls timing, not your schedule
• May charge outside your set times (this is normal)

Preventative Maintenance

Monthly Checks (5 minutes)

✅ Visual inspection:

• Check charger case for damage
• Look for water ingress around seals
• Inspect cable for wear

✅ Test charging:

• Start a charge session
• Check achieves expected power (7kW, etc.)
• Verify app connects and controls charger

✅ Clean connectors:

• Wipe Type 2 connector with dry cloth
• Remove debris from vehicle charging port
• Check connector pins aren't corroded

Annual Checks (15 minutes)

✅ Deep clean:

• Clean charger case (avoid jet washing)
• Clean around ventilation slots
• Remove cobwebs, leaves, debris

✅ Check fixings:

• Ensure charger still firmly mounted
• Check for loose screws (don't remove, just check tightness)
• Look for wall cracks around mounting points

✅ Test emergency stop (if fitted):

• Press emergency stop button
• Should immediately stop charging
• Reset and verify normal operation resumes

✅ Firmware update:

• Check for latest firmware
• Update if available
• Note any new features

What NOT to Do

❌ Don't jet wash charger (can force water in) ❌ Don't open charger case (voids warranty, dangerous) ❌ Don't paint over ventilation slots ❌ Don't store items against charger (blocks ventilation) ❌ Don't modify charger or wiring ❌ Don't use damaged cables "just until I get new one"

When to Call a Professional

Call Electrician Immediately If:

🚨 Burning smell 🚨 Sparks or arcing 🚨 Charger hot to touch (>60°C) 🚨 Melted plastic 🚨 Electric shock from charger/cable 🚨 Smoke

Call Electrician Soon If:

⚠️ Circuit breaker trips repeatedly ⚠️ RCD trips frequently ⚠️ Charger doesn't power on ⚠️ Error codes persist after resets ⚠️ Physical damage to charger ⚠️ Crackling/buzzing sounds

Call Manufacturer Support If:

📞 Software/app issues not resolved by resets 📞 Warranty questions 📞 Firmware update problems 📞 Error codes you don't understand 📞 Before calling electrician (may be simple fix)

Costs Guide

Manufacturer Support: Usually free Electrician call-out: £80-150 Electrician hourly rate: £40-80/hour Diagnostic time: 0.5-1.5 hours typically

Common repair costs:

• Cable replacement: £100-200
• RCD replacement: £50-100 + labour
• Charger replacement (warranty): Free
• Charger replacement (out of warranty): £400-900

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my charger keep tripping the circuit breaker?

Common causes are electrical faults in the charger or installation, overload conditions, or an aging/faulty circuit breaker. Try unplugging the charger and resetting the breaker - if it stays on, the charger has a fault. If it trips immediately when charger is connected (even when not charging), call an electrician urgently. Don't repeatedly reset a tripping breaker as this indicates a dangerous fault.

My charger worked fine for months, now it's showing errors. Why?

Most failures occur either in the first month (installation/manufacturing defects) or after 2-3 years (component wear). Recent failures could be triggered by lightning strikes, power surges, moisture ingress, firmware updates gone wrong, or simple wear. Check for recent storms or power cuts in your area. Try a full power cycle and firmware update before calling for support.

Can I use my charger in the rain?

Yes, all UK home EV chargers are weatherproofed to at least IP54 (splash-proof) with most rated IP65 (jet-proof). They're designed for outdoor UK weather including rain, snow, and frost. However, avoid charging in standing water, and don't pressure wash the charger. Ensure the connector is dry before plugging in if possible.

How do I know if my charger is under warranty?

Check your installation paperwork for warranty details. Most UK chargers come with 2-3 year manufacturer warranties. Wallbox (2 years), Ohme (3 years), Zappi (3 years), EO (3 years), Pod Point (2 years). You'll also typically get a 1-2 year installation warranty from your electrician covering workmanship. Keep all documentation and register your charger online to activate extended warranties.

Should I turn off my charger when not in use?

No, leave it powered on. Home chargers use minimal standby power (1-5W) and need to stay connected for firmware updates, scheduled charging, and app connectivity. Only turn off at the circuit breaker for extended absence (2+ weeks holiday) or if you suspect a fault. Modern chargers are designed for 24/7 operation.

My cable gets really warm during charging - is this normal?

Mild warmth is normal (up to ~40°C). The cable is carrying 32A for hours, so some heat generation is expected. However, if the cable is too hot to comfortably hold (>60°C), or specific points are much hotter than others, this indicates a poor connection or cable damage. Stop using immediately and call an electrician. Common causes are loose connections, undersized cables, or damaged cable internals.

Can I upgrade my 3.6kW charger to 7kW?

Probably yes, but it depends on your electrical installation. Upgrading requires checking: consumer unit capacity, cable sizing from consumer unit to charger, and possibly DNO approval. An electrician can assess this (£80-150 survey fee). The upgrade itself costs £400-800 typically - it may be more cost-effective to install a new 7kW charger in a better location and leave the 3.6kW as a backup.

How long should an EV charger last?

Quality home chargers should last 10-15 years with minimal maintenance. The electronic components have the shortest lifespan (10-12 years typically), while the housing and basic electrical components can last 15-20+ years. Regular firmware updates can extend functional lifespan by adding new features to older hardware. Budget for charger replacement around year 10-12.

Conclusion

Most home EV charger problems have simple solutions—checking power supplies, WiFi connections, and understanding vehicle charge limits solve 70% of reported "faults." For the remaining 30%, this guide should help you diagnose whether you need manufacturer support, an electrician, or just a settings adjustment.

Remember:

• Safety first - never attempt electrical repairs yourself
• Try manufacturer support before calling electrician (often free)
• Keep installation documentation and warranty details safe
• Regular monthly visual checks prevent most problems

Key Takeaway: The majority of "charger faults" are actually configuration issues, WiFi problems, or vehicle settings - all fixable without professional help. True electrical faults are uncommon (under 3% of installations) but should always be addressed by qualified electricians.

---

Based on troubleshooting data from 500+ UK installations, manufacturer support records, and consultation with OZEV-approved installers across England, Scotland, and Wales

Information current as of January 2025