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Can I Leave My EV Charger on Overnight?

EV Charger being plugged into a white car

Published on:
29 January 2025

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK brings with it a wave of questions around charging etiquette and safety. Whether you have installed domestic EV chargers or commercial EV chargers, one of the most common concerns for new EV owners is whether it’s safe and sensible to leave their car plugged in overnight. The short answer is yes, but let’s take a deeper look into why this is the case and explore some best practices for overnight charging.

Why Overnight Charging is the Norm

For most EV owners, plugging in an EV charger overnight is the most convenient and efficient way to keep their car topped up. Here’s why:

 * Lower Electricity Rates: Many energy suppliers offer cheaper electricity tariffs during off-peak hours, and this is typically overnight. Taking advantage of these lower tariffs can significantly reduce your charging costs than if you were to charge your electric vehicle during the day.

 * Convenience: Simply put, it’s more convenient to plug in your car when you get home and wake up to a fully charged battery, ready for the day ahead. Charging your EV this way means you don’t need to make special trips to charging stations or interrupt your day, and home charging is also significantly more cost-effective when you charge during off-peak hours. An additional bonus alongside the convenience is that having a home EV charger installed increases the value of your property.

 * Battery Health: Modern EVs have a sophisticated battery management system (BMS) that prevents overcharging. Once the battery reaches 100%, the charging process stops or switches to a trickle charge to maintain the optimal level; again offering you peace of mind that you can charge your EV overnight.

Safety First: Dispelling Concerns

Worries about safety are natural when dealing with electricity, but rest assured that overnight EV charging is designed with safety in mind:

 * Overcharging Protection: As mentioned earlier, the battery management system prevents overcharging, so you can leave your car plugged in without fear of damaging the battery over the longer term.

 * Thermal Management: EV batteries have thermal management systems to regulate temperature and prevent overheating, even during prolonged charging. Being aware of this can help you to feel at ease about charging your electric vehicle overnight.

 * Safety Standards: EV chargers and vehicles undergo rigorous testing to meet strict safety standards. Look for chargers with certifications such as a CE marking to ensure they comply with UK regulations. A CE marking means that a product complies with EU safety, health and environmental requirements.

There are some other misnomers regarding electric vehicles and charging them. We have addressed some of the most common concerns below to help you make a more informed decision on charging your EV overnight.

 * Fire Risk: The risk of an EV fire while charging is extremely low, significantly lower than the risk of a petrol or diesel car fire.

 * Electricity Wastage: Once your EV battery is full, the charger stops drawing significant power, so you won’t be wasting electricity.

 * Cable Theft: While rare, cable theft can of course be a concern. Consider a charger with a locking mechanism or park your car in a secure location to give yourself peace of mind.

Best Practices for Overnight Charging

Whilst leaving your EV charger on overnight is generally safe, following these best practices can further optimise your charging experience:

 * Using a Dedicated Domestic EV Charger: At East Yorkshire Solar, we specialise in providing domestic EV chargers that make charging your electric vehicle convenient and straightforward. Our chargers integrate seamlessly into your home and offer fast, safe charging whenever it is needed. Whether you are upgrading your current setup or installing a charger for the first time, our expert team is here to ensure you have the best solution tailored to your needs.

* Check Your Charger and Cable Regularly: It’s important to check your charging cable and the charger unit for any signs of wear and tear, and to replace any damaged components immediately. This is a consideration for any cable we have around the house but take extra care to ensure your EV cables are in optimal condition.

 * Charge to 80% for Daily Use: While charging to 100% is fine occasionally, consistently charging to 80% can prolong battery lifespan in the long run. It could also speed up the charging of the EV and it can help you save money too. While it’s safe and sometimes necessary to charge for 100% – if you’re preparing for a long journey, for example – charging to 80% is more beneficial.

Beyond Overnight Charging

Although overnight charging is the most common practice, there are other charging strategies to consider:

 * Top-up Charging: If you only drive short distances, you may only need to top up your battery occasionally, rather than charging fully every night.

 * Public Charging: Utilise public charging stations for longer journeys or when you need a quick boost.

 * Workplace Charging: Many workplaces now offer EV charging facilities, allowing you to charge your car during the day.

* Potentially Cheaper Electricity Tariffs: Money Saving Expert has a handy and comprehensive guide on EV energy tariffs, and how these can help you to save money compared to owning a petrol or diesel car.

Why Choose East Yorkshire Solar for EV Installation?


When it comes to installing an EV charger, choosing East Yorkshire Solar is the perfect decision. We bring years of expertise and experience in both solar services and EV charging solutions for domestic and commercial uses, ensuring you receive a high-quality installation tailored to your needs. As a local company, we understand the unique requirements of homes in East Yorkshire and are committed to providing solutions that fit perfectly with your lifestyle. 

Installing a domestic or commercial EV charger is also a straightforward process. Our experienced technicians begin by thoroughly assessing your location to find the best place for your charger. We then take care of the entire installation process, ensuring the charger is safely and securely fitted to meet strict regulatory standards. Once installed, we’ll then provide you with a full demonstration of how to use your new EV charger, so you can confidently charge your vehicle. At East Yorkshire Solar, we also offer ongoing support and maintenance, giving you confidence that your charging station remains in perfect working order.

Conclusion

Leaving your EV charger on overnight is not only safe and convenient but also the most efficient way to keep your car charged for most EV owners. By understanding the safety features, following best practices, and exploring different charging strategies, you can embrace the electric revolution with confidence and peace of mind.

Further Support

We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to contact our team of EV charging experts today for further guidance and advice. 

Email: info@eastyorkshiresolar.co.uk 
Telephone: 01482 230 422