If your EV charger is spoiling the aesthetic of your driveway design, or their appearance is putting you off getting one altogether, you might be wondering whether you can cover it.
While the answer is technically yes, there are a few caveats worth bearing in mind, such as how it may impact your warranty and whether the cover is designed with sufficient ventilation.
To find out how to safely disguise your EV charger without causing damage to the unit, your home or the guarantee, keep reading to hear what our experts have to say.
Can I cover my EV charger?
Yes, you can cover an EV charger, but Simon Youngman, Head of Renewables at DW Renewable Energy, warns that "a badly designed cover can make the installation less safe". For that reason (and more), a manufacturer-approved design is always the safest route to go down if you are looking to conceal your charger from view.
It might be cheaper to stick it in any old cupboard or create a DIY cover, but you may end up trapping heat while it charges, and it could even promote condensation – not a healthy mix for electrics, as we know. With that in mind, it's important to choose a specially made cover that is manufacturer approved, or not cover it at all.
Covering your EV charger could also create a fire risk if ventilation is restricted, adds David Martell, CEO of Andersen EV. Many chargers are made with a built-in ventilation system to keep them cool in extreme heat, so it's important not to block this.
"The cover must allow the charger and any nearby electrical isolator to be accessed quickly," Simon says. "The charging cable should not be tightly bent, pinched in a door or allowed to sit in standing water. There should also be sufficient space for an electrician to remove the front of the charger and carry out maintenance."
It's not just safety to keep in mind – David says that your vehicle may take longer to charge and the manufacturer's warranty could be affected.
Here's a quick round-up of the risks you need to know:
- Trapped heat
- Condensation
- Fire hazard if ventillation is restricted
- Reduced access
- Longer charging time
- Invalidated warranty
Simon Youngman is Head of Renewables at DW Renewable Energy, a company providing design, installation and ongoing support for commercial solar, battery storage, EV charging and electrical projects.
David started in EV over 15 years ago when he founded Chargemaster which he later sold to BP. He is passionate about providing market leading products to consumers and has plenty experience in doing so.
How can I disguise my EV charger?
"The best approach is to consider the appearance of the charger before it is installed, rather than trying to cover it afterwards." says Simon Youngman.
Some chargers are available in a range of colours and finishes or with built-in cable storage, making them more aesthetically pleasing. Our Content Editor, Laura Crombie, opted for a wood-clad box by Anderson for hers.
If you've already invested in a unit, Simon recommends disguising the installation area rather than covering the charger itself. "I would position it on a side wall, behind a gate, inside an open carport or on a discreet pedestal. It still needs to be somewhere that the driver can easily reach without stretching the charging cable across a footpath or driving area."
You could also try a decorative screening idea or louvred surround to help conceal the unit while keeping the ventilation intact. However, Simon would avoid using plants to hide it, as they can become caught, retain moisture and restrict access.
Keep your EV charger out of sight with this pretty floral privacy screen, made from rust- and sun-proof metal.
Does putting an EV charger in a box void the warranty?
Potentially, but it will ultimately depend on your manufacturer's specific warranty.
"Most domestic EV chargers are designed and tested for permanent outdoor installation, so putting one inside a homemade cabinet can change its operating conditions," explains Simon Youngman. "If a manufacturer believes an enclosure contributed to a fault, they may reject the warranty claim."
That's why it's key to check the installation manual and get approval in writing from the manufacturer or an approved installer.
After speaking with the experts, the message is clear: covering your EV charger with something that is not manufacturer approved is not a good idea and can lead to a long list of problems – from voiding your warranty to safety risks.
For more advice, read about the things I wish I knew before installing an EV charger or find out what an electro-tech home is.
