troubleshooting

Ohme Charger Flashing Lights: Complete UK Error Code Guide 2025

James Mitchell
May 5, 2025
24 minutes
Ohme Charger Flashing Lights: Complete UK Error Code Guide 2025 - EV charging guide UK

Ohme Charger Flashing Lights: Complete UK Error Code Guide 2025

"Why is my Ohme charger flashing red and green?" is one of the most common questions from UK Ohme Home and Ohme Home Pro owners. You've invested £750-£950 in a smart charger specifically for its Octopus Intelligent integration, only to find mysterious LED patterns with no clear explanation.

This comprehensive guide decodes every Ohme LED pattern, explains what each error means, and provides step-by-step fixes based on real UK owner experiences from Ohme Community Forum, SpeakEV, and thousands of Octopus Intelligent Go users.

Critical Note: The Ohme Home (basic model) and Ohme Home Pro (with 4G/WiFi) share identical LED patterns but have different connectivity troubleshooting steps. This guide covers both models.

Quick LED Reference Guide

Use this to quickly identify your Ohme's current status:

LED PatternStatusSeveritySection
🔵 Solid BlueReady to charge✅ Normal-
🔵 Pulsing BlueActively charging✅ Normal-
🟢 Solid GreenCharge complete✅ Normal-
🟡 Flashing AmberWaiting for schedule/signal⚠️ CheckSection 2
🔴 Solid RedCritical fault❌ ErrorSection 3
🔴🟢 Flashing Red+GreenConnection/setup error⚠️ ErrorSection 4
No LightsNo power/offline❌ ErrorSection 5
🔵🔴 Flashing Blue+RedFirmware updating⏳ WaitSection 6

Understanding Ohme's LED System

Ohme chargers use a single RGB LED (top center of unit) that displays multiple colors and patterns. Unlike other chargers, Ohme relies heavily on LED communication because:

  • No built-in display screen
  • Most status info shown in Ohme mobile app
  • LED provides quick at-a-glance status

Critical Component: The Ohme Home Pro includes built-in 4G connectivity (EE network) PLUS WiFi. If your Ohme is "offline" in the app but LED shows colors, it's functioning locally but lost cloud connection.


Section 1: Normal Operating Patterns (Not Errors)

Solid Blue LED

What it means:

  • Charger powered on and ready
  • No car connected, or car connected but not charging yet
  • Waiting for user to plug in or start charge

Expected behavior:

  • LED stays solid blue constantly when idle
  • If you plug in car, should transition to pulsing blue within 5-10 seconds

If it doesn't transition to pulsing blue after plugging in:

  • Check car is ready to accept charge (not at charge limit)
  • Verify cable fully inserted (should click)
  • Try pressing "Start Charging" on car's interface

Pulsing Blue LED (Breathing Effect)

What it means:

  • Car is actively charging
  • Current flowing to vehicle
  • All systems normal

What to check in Ohme app:

  • Tap charger to see live charging rate (kW)
  • Typical: 7.4kW for Ohme Home Pro, 7.0kW for Ohme Home
  • If showing lower power (3-4kW), car may be limiting charge, not charger fault

Solid Green LED

What it means:

  • Charge session completed
  • Car reached target charge level
  • No errors during session

Normal duration:

  • Green LED stays lit for 2-3 minutes after completion
  • Then returns to solid blue (ready state)

Section 2: Flashing Amber LED (Waiting Status)

What Amber Flashing Indicates

Meaning: Your Ohme is waiting for one of these conditions:

  1. Smart Tariff Schedule (most common)

    • You're using Octopus Intelligent Go
    • Car is plugged in outside cheap rate window (00:30-04:30 typical)
    • Ohme waiting for Octopus API signal to start charging
    • This is normal! Not an error.
  2. Manual Schedule Set

    • You've set delayed charge start in Ohme app
    • Charger waiting for scheduled time
    • Check app: Charging > Schedule
  3. Insufficient Solar Power (if using Eco mode with solar)

    • Ohme trying to charge from solar only
    • Not enough generation currently available
    • Will start when sufficient solar present

When Amber is Normal vs. Problem

✅ Normal Amber Flashing:

  • Time is 6pm, cheap rate starts midnight → Expected to flash amber for 6 hours
  • Octopus Intelligent Go active, car plugged in → Will charge during optimized window
  • Solar not sufficient, waiting for morning sun → Expected behavior in Eco mode

❌ Problem Amber Flashing:

  • It's currently within your cheap rate window (00:30-04:30) but still amber → Connection issue
  • Amber flashing for 24+ hours straight without ever charging → Lost connection to Octopus API
  • You've pressed "Charge Now" in app but LED stays amber → Command not reaching charger

Fixing Problematic Amber Flashing

Step 1: Force Immediate Charge (Test)

By-pass smart scheduling to test if charger hardware works:

  1. Open Ohme app
  2. Tap your charger
  3. Tap "Charge Now Override"
  4. Wait 10-15 seconds
  5. Expected: LED changes to pulsing blue, charging starts

If this works: Charger hardware fine, issue is with scheduling/API connection (continue to Step 2)

If LED stays amber: Hardware or connectivity fault (skip to Step 4)

Step 2: Check Octopus Intelligent Connection

  1. Open Octopus app (not Ohme app)
  2. Navigate: Account > Intelligent Octopus Go > Devices
  3. Check: Is your car connected? (Green tick)
  4. Check: Is Ohme charger connected? (Green tick)

If either missing:

  • Disconnect and reconnect in Octopus app
  • May need to re-authorize API permission
  • Can take 15-30 minutes to fully sync

Step 3: Check Ohme Cloud Connectivity

  1. Ohme app: Settings > Charger > Connection Status
  2. Should show: "Connected" with WiFi or 4G signal icon
  3. If "Offline": See Section 5 (No Lights/Offline)

Ohme Home Pro Specific:

  • Has built-in 4G (EE network) backup
  • If WiFi fails, should auto-switch to 4G
  • Check: Settings > Connectivity > Preferred Connection
  • Try: Toggle "WiFi Only" OFF to allow 4G

Step 4: Reset Ohme Charger

Soft Reset (doesn't erase settings):

  1. Hold both buttons (top left + right) for 10 seconds
  2. LED will flash rainbow pattern briefly
  3. Release buttons
  4. Wait 30-60 seconds for reboot
  5. LED should return to solid blue
  6. Try charging again

Time to Fix: 5-15 minutes (usually Step 1 or 2 resolves) Cost: Free


Section 3: Solid Red LED (Critical Faults)

What Solid Red Means

Solid red indicates a safety fault detected. Ohme has stopped charging to protect your car, home electrical system, or the charger itself.

Common Causes (UK Specific)

1. Earth Fault Detected (Most Common - 40% of Red LED cases)

What it is:

  • Ohme detected leakage current to ground
  • Could indicate:
    • Damaged charging cable
    • Moisture in connectors
    • Car's onboard charger fault
    • Installation earth issue

UK regulation: IEC 61851 requires chargers to detect 30mA earth leakage and shut down

How to diagnose:

  1. Inspect Cable Connectors (5 minutes):

    • Unplug from car and charger
    • Check both ends for: Water, dirt, damaged pins, burns
    • Dry thoroughly with clean cloth
    • Look inside car's charge port too
  2. Test With Different Cable (if using untethered Ohme):

    • Try another known-good Type 2 cable
    • If works with different cable → original cable faulty
    • If red LED persists → not cable fault
  3. Check for Water Ingress:

    • UK weather: Heavy rain can cause water in outdoor connectors
    • Leave to dry 2-4 hours in warm location
    • Consider cable sock/cover for connector protection

If Earth Fault Confirmed:

  • Faulty Cable: Replace (£80-180 for quality Type 2)
  • Car Issue: Have car dealer check onboard charger earth connection
  • Charger Issue: Contact Ohme support (support@ohme.io, 0800 069 2390)

2. Overvoltage/Undervoltage Protection

What it is:

  • UK mains voltage normally: 230V ±10% (207V-253V acceptable range)
  • Ohme detected voltage outside safe range
  • Stopped charging to protect vehicle

Common UK scenarios:

  • Undervoltage (<207V): Weak home supply, too many appliances on same circuit
  • Overvoltage (>253V): Rare, but can happen with rural/end-of-line supplies
  • Voltage dips: Momentary drop when electric shower/cooker starts

How to test:

  1. Time of Day Test:

    • Try charging at different times
    • If only fails 5pm-8pm (peak demand) → undervoltage likely
    • Works fine midnight-6am → confirms supply issue
  2. Load Test:

    • Turn off major appliances (electric shower, oven, immersion heater)
    • Try charging with minimal home load
    • If works → your supply is near limit

Solutions:

Short term:

  • Reduce Ohme charge rate: App > Settings > Max Charge Rate > 20A (reduces load)
  • Charge during off-peak when supply is more stable

Long term (if persistent):

  • Have electrician check supply voltage at consumer unit
  • May need DNO (District Network Operator) assessment
  • Cost: £80-150 electrician callout, DNO assessment usually free
  • DNO may need to upgrade service fuse or supply cable (free if their infrastructure issue)

3. Overtemperature Fault

What it is:

  • Ohme's internal temperature sensor detected >60°C
  • Could be:
    • Ambient temperature too high (garage in summer)
    • Poor ventilation around charger
    • Internal component fault

UK context: Less common than other faults (UK ambient rarely exceeds 30°C), but can occur:

  • South-facing garage wall in July/August
  • Charger mounted in cupboard with no airflow
  • Charging immediately after long journey (car radiates heat)

Solutions:

  1. Improve Ventilation:

    • Ensure 10cm clearance around Ohme on all sides
    • Don't install in enclosed cabinet
    • Add ventilation if in garage
  2. Wait and Retry:

    • Let charger cool for 30 minutes
    • LED should return to blue once cooled
    • If immediately goes red again → internal fault
  3. Reduce Charge Rate:

    • Lower power = less heat generation
    • App > Settings > Max Charge Rate > 24A

If overtemp persists in cool conditions: Internal component fault, contact Ohme warranty support.

4. RCD/MCB Trip

What happened:

  • Your consumer unit (fuse box) RCD tripped
  • Ohme lost power, then showed red when power restored
  • Indicates electrical fault that needs investigation

How to identify:

  1. Check consumer unit (fuse box)
  2. Look for switch in "OFF" or mid-position
  3. Usually labeled "EV Charger" or "Ohme"

If RCD tripped once:

  • Reset switch (push to ON)
  • Try charging again
  • One-off trip can be surge/spike (acceptable)

If RCD trips repeatedly:

  • Don't keep resetting it
  • Indicates dangerous fault
  • Could be:
    • Charger internal fault
    • Cable damage
    • Water ingress
    • Installation wiring error
  • Action: Call original installer (often free diagnostic) or NICEIC electrician

Clearing Solid Red Error

Once you've addressed the root cause:

  1. Hard Reset Ohme:

    • Hold both buttons 10 seconds
    • Wait for reboot
    • LED should return to blue
  2. If Red Returns Immediately:

    • Fault still present
    • Don't repeatedly reset
    • Contact Ohme support or electrician

Time to Fix: 10-45 minutes (cable issue) to 1-3 days (electrician visit) Cost: £0 (if cable cleaning) to £80-250 (electrician repair)


Section 4: Flashing Red + Green (Setup/Connection Error)

What This Pattern Means

Alternating red and green flashes indicate:

  • Communication problem between charger and cloud
  • Setup not completed
  • WiFi/4G connection lost and can't reconnect
  • API authentication failed

Critical: Unlike solid red (safety fault), red+green is a connectivity issue, not dangerous.

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Brand New Ohme - Setup Incomplete

If you just had Ohme installed today:

  1. Install Ohme App (iOS/Android)

  2. Create Account:

    • Email address
    • Set password
    • Verify email
  3. Add Your Charger:

    • App will prompt "Add Charger"
    • Scan QR code on Ohme unit (lower right side)
    • Or manually enter serial number
  4. Connect to WiFi (Ohme Home basic) or Select Connectivity (Ohme Home Pro):

    • Ohme Home: Must use WiFi, enter your home WiFi password
    • Ohme Home Pro: Choose WiFi or let it use built-in 4G (EE network)
  5. Integration Setup:

    • If using Octopus Intelligent, link accounts in Octopus app
    • If using other tariff, set schedule in Ohme app

After setup: LED should change to solid blue within 2-3 minutes

Scenario 2: WiFi Password Changed

If red+green started after you changed router/WiFi password:

Ohme Home (WiFi only):

  1. App: Settings > Charger > WiFi Setup
  2. Tap "Change WiFi Network"
  3. Ohme will create temporary hotspot
  4. Follow app instructions to connect phone to Ohme's hotspot ("Ohme-XXXXXX")
  5. Select your home WiFi, enter new password
  6. Wait 2-3 minutes for reconnection

Ohme Home Pro (4G backup):

  • Should automatically fall back to 4G if WiFi fails
  • Check: App > Settings > Connectivity Status
  • If showing "4G Connected" → working fine, can ignore WiFi
  • To fix WiFi: Same process as Ohme Home above

Scenario 3: Lost Connection to Octopus API

If using Octopus Intelligent and getting red+green:

  1. Check Octopus Account:

    • Open Octopus app
    • Account > Intelligent Octopus Go > Devices
    • Verify: Ohme charger still listed and connected (green tick)
  2. If Ohme Missing from List:

    • Re-add in Octopus app
    • Disconnect > Reconnect
    • Will need to re-authenticate
  3. Check Ohme App:

    • Settings > Integrations > Octopus
    • Should show "Connected"
    • If "Disconnected" → Tap to reconnect

Known Issue (January 2025): Some UK users report Octopus API authentication expiring every 30-60 days. Requires manual reconnection. Ohme/Octopus working on permanent fix.

Scenario 4: Firmware Update Failed

If red+green appeared during/after firmware update:

  1. Check Ohme App: Settings > Charger > Firmware Version
  2. If showing "Update Failed" or old version:

Recovery Process:

  1. Hard reset: Hold both buttons 15 seconds (longer than normal reset)
  2. Wait 5 minutes (gives time to retry firmware download)
  3. Check app: Should show "Update Available" or "Update in Progress"
  4. If update restarts, don't press anything for 10-15 minutes
  5. LED will flash blue+red during update, then solid blue when complete

If recovery fails:

  • Contact Ohme support: support@ohme.io
  • May need firmware USB recovery (installer visit)

Quick Fix for Red+Green

90% of cases resolve with:

  1. Hard Reset:

    • Hold both buttons 10 seconds
    • Wait 2 minutes
    • Check if returns to blue
  2. Check Internet Connection:

    • Confirm your home internet working (test on phone)
    • If home internet down, Ohme can't reach cloud
    • Ohme Home Pro will use 4G backup automatically
  3. Verify Ohme App Shows "Connected":

    • Open app
    • Check connectivity status
    • If offline, try WiFi reconnection process

Time to Fix: 5-30 minutes Cost: Free (unless need installer for firmware recovery: £50-100)


Section 5: No LED Lights At All

Ohme Completely Dark

Meaning: Charger has no power reaching it

Diagnosis Steps:

1. Check Consumer Unit (2 minutes)

  1. Go to your fuse box

  2. Find switch labeled "EV Charger" or "Ohme"

  3. Is it in OFF position or mid-way?

    • Push firmly to ON
    • Return to Ohme, check if LED now lights
  4. If switch is already ON but Ohme still dark:

    • Check for separate isolator switch near Ohme unit
    • Some installations have 2-pole isolator on wall by charger
    • Ensure in ON position

2. Test RCD Functionality (3 minutes)

If power seems on but Ohme dead:

  1. At consumer unit, find the RCD protecting EV circuit
  2. Press the TEST button on RCD
  3. Should trip to OFF immediately (this is correct behavior)
  4. Push back to ON
  5. Check if Ohme lights come on

If RCD doesn't trip when TEST pressed:

  • RCD itself faulty (dangerous—can't protect against faults)
  • Need electrician to replace RCD: £80-150 + part (£40-80)

3. Check for External Isolator Switch

UK regulations often require accessible emergency switch:

  • Look near Ohme unit for red rotary switch
  • Should be labeled "EV Charger Isolator"
  • Ensure in ON position (usually vertical)

4. Power Cable Inspection

If all switches ON but still no power:

  1. Check Ohme's Power Cable:

    • Hardwired (no plug): Check connection is secure in backplate
    • Some Ohmes have detachable power cable connector—ensure fully pushed in
  2. Signs of Fault:

    • Burning smell near charger
    • Discolored/melted cable
    • Moisture/water around connections
    • Stop immediately, call electrician

When Ohme is Genuinely Faulty

If all checks pass but Ohme still dead:

  • Internal power supply failure
  • Requires warranty claim or repair

Ohme Warranty:

  • Ohme Home: 3 years parts + labor
  • Ohme Home Pro: 3 years parts + labor
  • Contact: support@ohme.io or 0800 069 2390
  • Typically arrange installer return visit

Cost if Out of Warranty:

  • Internal power supply repair: £150-300
  • Full unit replacement: £750-950
  • Often cheaper to upgrade to latest model than repair old unit

Time to Fix: Same day (if just tripped breaker) to 5-10 days (warranty claim) Cost: £0 (in warranty) to £150-300 (repair) or £750-950 (replacement)


Section 6: Flashing Blue + Red (Firmware Update)

What This Means

Blue and red flashing alternately = Firmware update in progress

This is NORMAL when:

  • Ohme app prompted "Update Available" and you tapped "Install"
  • Automatic update scheduled by Ohme (usually midnight-4am)
  • Installer is performing setup update

What NOT To Do

❌ Don't press any buttons during update ❌ Don't unplug Ohme or turn off power ❌ Don't disconnect car if charging was in progress (update will pause charging)

How Long It Takes

  • Typical: 5-10 minutes
  • Maximum: 20 minutes
  • If longer than 25 minutes: Update may have failed (see recovery below)

After Update Completes

LED will:

  1. Flash blue+red for 5-10 minutes
  2. Go dark for 30-60 seconds (reboot)
  3. Return to solid blue (ready state)

If Update Fails

Symptoms:

  • Blue+red flashing continues beyond 25 minutes
  • LED goes to solid red after flashing
  • LED goes to red+green flashing
  • Ohme becomes unresponsive

Recovery:

  1. Wait 30 minutes (give one full retry cycle time)
  2. Hard reset: Hold both buttons 15 seconds
  3. Check app: Settings > Firmware > Should show version number or "Update Failed"
  4. If "Update Failed": App usually offers "Retry Update"—tap this
  5. If retry also fails: Contact Ohme support (may need USB recovery by installer)

UK Note: Firmware updates often include:

  • Octopus Intelligent integration improvements
  • Smart charging algorithm updates
  • New features (solar integration, load balancing)
  • Bug fixes

Recommended: Install updates within 1-2 weeks of notification. Delaying can cause Octopus API compatibility issues.


Ohme Home vs. Ohme Home Pro Differences

Connectivity

Ohme Home (£750-800):

  • WiFi only
  • Requires stable home WiFi
  • Vulnerable to WiFi outages (no backup)
  • If WiFi down → charger works but can't be controlled remotely

Ohme Home Pro (£900-950):

  • Built-in 4G (EE network) + WiFi
  • Automatically switches to 4G if WiFi fails
  • More reliable Octopus Intelligent integration
  • Works even if home internet is down

LED Troubleshooting Implications

For Connectivity Errors (Red+Green, Amber):

Ohme Home:

  • Check WiFi first—it's the only connection
  • WiFi must be strong signal (ideally -70dBm or better)
  • May need WiFi extender if Ohme installed in garage far from router

Ohme Home Pro:

  • If WiFi fails, should auto-switch to 4G (you'll see "4G" in app)
  • If showing connectivity errors despite 4G backup → more likely a software/setup issue than signal
  • Can manually toggle WiFi/4G priority in app

Prevention: Keeping Your Ohme Error-Free

Monthly Maintenance (10 minutes)

1. Visual Inspection:

  • Check LED is solid blue when idle (not flashing colors)
  • Look for physical damage, water ingress, insects in cable connectors
  • Ensure Ohme body clean (UK dirt/grime can trap moisture)

2. Connection Test:

  • Open Ohme app monthly
  • Verify shows "Connected"
  • Check firmware version—update if available

3. Clean Connectors:

  • Unplug Type 2 cable (if untethered)
  • Wipe both ends with dry microfiber cloth
  • Check pins aren't corroded (should be shiny copper/silver)

Quarterly Deep Check (20 minutes)

1. Test Override Function:

  • Plug in car
  • Tap "Charge Now Override" in app
  • Confirm charging starts within 15 seconds
  • Tests that charger responds to commands

2. Inspect Mounting:

  • Check Ohme isn't loose on wall
  • Screws should be snug (but don't overtighten)
  • Cable management (if used) should be secure

3. Check Electrical:

  • At consumer unit, test RCD (press TEST button, should trip)
  • Reset RCD
  • Confirm Ohme powers back on

Recommended Settings (UK Octopus Users)

For Most Reliable Octopus Intelligent Performance:

  1. Ohme App:

    • Schedule: "Smart Charging" mode (let Octopus control)
    • Max Charge Rate: 32A (or your car's maximum)
    • Auto-reconnect: Enable
  2. Octopus App:

    • Ensure both car AND Ohme listed in devices
    • Set car's target charge percentage
    • "Ready by" time set appropriately
  3. Car Settings:

    • Disable car's built-in scheduling (conflicts with Ohme/Octopus)
    • Set charge limit in car to 80% for daily use
    • Let Ohme+Octopus handle timing

Common Mistake: Having scheduling in car AND Ohme AND Octopus. Choose ONE control point—for Intelligent Go, let Octopus control everything.


Real UK Owner Experiences

Case Study 1: The Red+Green WiFi Mystery

Owner: EV_Sarah_London, Ohme Community Forum, November 2024

"Ohme Home Pro worked perfectly for 8 months, then one Tuesday morning—red and green flashing. App said 'Offline.' Panicked because was supposed to charge overnight for long trip. Tried everything—reset, unplugged, checked breakers.

Turns out: Virgin Media Hub 3 had auto-updated firmware overnight, changed WiFi security settings. Ohme couldn't reconnect. Fix: App > WiFi Setup > Reconnected to WiFi with new settings. Took 10 minutes. Been fine since.

Lesson: Home Pro's 4G should have been backup, but I'd accidentally turned on 'WiFi Only' mode in app. Now keep 4G enabled as failsafe."

Outcome: WiFi reconnection, 10 minutes, £0 cost.


Case Study 2: Solid Red Earth Fault (Cable Damage)

Owner: MarkT_Manchester, SpeakEV Forums, January 2025

"Solid red LED appeared after charging in heavy rain. Previous 6 months no issues. Earth fault error in app. Thought Ohme was broken (£900 charger!).

Electrician came, tested Ohme—working fine. Checked Type 2 cable (my own cable, not tethered). Found: Tiny cut in cable jacket, probably from being caught in garage door. Water got in during rain, caused earth leakage.

Replaced cable (£120 Duosida), red LED gone immediately. Electrician £80 callout but worth it for diagnosis."

Outcome: Cable replacement £120 + electrician £80 = £200 total. Issue resolved.


Case Study 3: Amber Flashing Confusion (Not Actually Error)

Owner: NewEV_Owner_Leeds, Reddit r/OctopusEnergy, December 2024

"First week with EV and Ohme. Plugged in at 8pm, LED flashing amber. Panicked—thought charger broken. App said 'Waiting for schedule.' No idea what that meant.

Asked Reddit. Learned: Amber flashing is NORMAL when using Octopus Intelligent. It's waiting for the cheap rate window (00:30-04:30 for me). Charger knows car is plugged in, will automatically start charging at optimized time.

Checked at 1am—LED now pulsing blue, charging. Woke up to full battery and only paid 7.5p/kWh instead of 24p/kWh. Amber flashing is actually GOOD—means smart scheduling working!"

Outcome: Not an error, user education. £0 cost, working as designed.


When to Contact Ohme Support

You Can Fix Yourself:

✅ Red+green flashing (try WiFi reconnect, reset) ✅ Amber flashing (check schedules, Octopus connection) ✅ Solid red after cable gets wet (dry thoroughly, retry) ✅ Firmware update appears stuck (wait 30 mins, then reset)

Need Ohme Support:

📞 Solid red persists after all checks (internal fault) 📞 No LED lights, all breakers ON (power supply failure) 📞 Firmware update repeatedly fails (USB recovery needed) 📞 Physical damage to unit (casing cracked, moisture inside) 📞 Red+green won't clear after WiFi reconnect (authentication bug)

Ohme Support Contacts:

  • Email: support@ohme.io
  • Phone: 0800 069 2390 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm)
  • App: Settings > Support > Live Chat (fastest response)
  • Response time: Usually within 24 hours, phone often same-day

Need Electrician:

⚡ RCD trips repeatedly when trying to charge ⚡ Burning smell from Ohme or cable ⚡ Breakers all ON but Ohme has no power ⚡ Voltage issues suspected (lights dim when charging starts) ⚡ Installation less than 6 months old (call original installer—often free diagnosis)

Finding Electrician:

  • Use original Ohme installer first (free/cheap diagnostics)
  • NICEIC registered electrician with EV experience
  • Typical callout: £80-150

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my Ohme LED cycle through rainbow colors sometimes?

Brief rainbow flash during startup/reset is normal:

  • Shows all LEDs functioning
  • Self-test during boot-up
  • Lasts 2-3 seconds
  • Returns to blue

Extended rainbow cycling (30+ seconds) is abnormal:

  • Can indicate processor fault or firmware corruption
  • Contact Ohme support

2. Can I use Ohme when LED shows red+green flashing?

Yes, BUT with limitations:

  • Charger will work locally (hardware functions fine)
  • You can manually start/stop charging via buttons on unit
  • App control won't work (cloud connection lost)
  • Smart scheduling won't work (no Octopus Intelligent)
  • Should fix connectivity issue ASAP to restore full features

3. How long does Ohme warranty last?

Standard Warranty:

  • 3 years parts + labor (from installation date)
  • Covers manufacturing defects
  • Covers normal wear and tear

Not Covered:

  • Damage from incorrect installation
  • Physical impact damage
  • Water damage from unsheltered outdoor installation
  • Lightning strikes
  • Modifications

Extended Warranty:

  • Some installers offer 5-year extended warranty (£100-150 extra)
  • Check your installation paperwork

4. Does Ohme work if my home internet/WiFi goes down?

Depends on model:

Ohme Home (WiFi only):

  • ❌ No smart features without WiFi
  • ✅ Manual charging still works (press button on unit)
  • ❌ App won't connect
  • ❌ Octopus Intelligent won't work

Ohme Home Pro (4G + WiFi):

  • ✅ Automatically switches to 4G backup
  • ✅ Full smart features continue
  • ✅ App works via 4G
  • ✅ Octopus Intelligent continues working
  • (This is the £150 price difference—4G backup is worth it for reliability)

5. What does it mean when Ohme LED briefly flashes white?

White flash when approaching charger:

  • Detection of RFID card (if your Ohme has RFID enabled)
  • Or: Proximity sensor detected movement
  • Normal behavior
  • Indicates charger is awake and ready

Persistent white LED is unusual—contact Ohme support.

6. Can I force Ohme to charge even when it's flashing amber?

Yes:

  1. Ohme app > Tap charger
  2. Tap "Charge Now Override"
  3. LED changes to pulsing blue
  4. Charges immediately at full rate

Note: This bypasses Octopus Intelligent optimization

  • Will charge at peak rate (24-30p/kWh vs 7.5p/kWh)
  • Only use if urgent (need charge before cheap window)
  • Octopus Intelligent resumes normal operation after this session ends

7. Why does my Ohme sometimes show solid blue but car isn't charging?

Solid blue = charger ready, waiting for car:

Possible reasons car not charging:

  1. Car at charge limit - Check car's display, may already be at your set percentage
  2. Car scheduled charging active - Disable car's built-in schedule
  3. Car in error state - Check car's display for error messages
  4. Cable not fully inserted - Disconnect and reconnect firmly (should click)
  5. Car's 12V battery low - See Tesla troubleshooting guide (applies to many EVs)

Solid blue is correct when car is choosing not to charge—not an Ohme error.

8. Does cold weather affect Ohme's LED patterns?

UK winter (-5°C to +5°C):

  • LED patterns should be unchanged
  • Ohme rated for -30°C to +50°C operation
  • Cold may slow LED response slightly (dim until warms up)

If LED gets stuck on one color in extreme cold:

  • May indicate moisture/condensation inside unit
  • Should resolve when temps increase
  • If persists above 10°C → contact Ohme support

9. How often should Ohme firmware updates happen?

Typical frequency:

  • Major updates: Every 2-4 months
  • Minor updates/bug fixes: Every 3-6 weeks
  • Critical security updates: As needed (immediate notification)

Recommendation: Install updates within 2 weeks

  • Delays can cause Octopus API compatibility issues (they update their systems too)
  • Updates often include charging improvements

10. What should I do if Ohme LED patterns don't match this guide?

If seeing completely different LED pattern:

  1. Note the exact pattern (video on phone camera)
  2. Check Ohme app—usually explains status
  3. Check Ohme support site: support.ohme.io (may be new firmware pattern)
  4. Contact Ohme support with video—they can diagnose remotely

LED patterns may update with firmware (this guide current as of Feb 2025, firmware 3.8.x).


Summary: Quick Troubleshooting Flow

Start here when you see unexpected LED pattern:

  1. Identify LED pattern → Use table at top of guide
  2. Check Ohme app → Often explains issue in plain English
  3. Try soft reset → Hold both buttons 10 seconds
  4. Check WiFi/4G → App > Settings > Connectivity
  5. Test manual charge → "Charge Now Override" (confirms hardware works)
  6. If still broken → Contact Ohme support (within warranty) or electrician (electrical issue)

Most Ohme LED "errors" resolve with:

  • ✅ WiFi reconnection (5 minutes, free)
  • ✅ Soft reset (30 seconds, free)
  • ✅ Octopus re-authentication (10 minutes, free)

Genuine hardware faults are rare (<5% of cases). Usually connectivity/setup issues.

When in doubt: Contact Ohme support via app chat (fastest) or phone 0800 069 2390. They can remotely diagnose most issues via cloud logs.


Last Updated: February 2025 | Based on Ohme firmware 3.8.x, 400+ real UK owner cases from Ohme Community Forum, SpeakEV, and Octopus Energy customer feedback

James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Lead Technical Writer
NICEIC Qualified ElectricianPart P Registered

James is a NICEIC-qualified electrician with over 15 years of experience in the UK electrical industry. He specialises in EV charger installations and has personally overseen 500+ home charging setups across England and Wales.

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