Why Is My EV Charger Charging So Slowly?
Experiencing a sudden drop in your EV’s charging speed and can’t figure out why? Leaving your car plugged in overnight, only to wake up to a partial charge, can start your day with less range — and more frustration — than expected.
Fortunately, most causes of slow EV charging are easy to identify. With the right steps, you can quickly restore reliable charging.
This guide explores the most common reasons for a sluggish electric car charge, from simple settings you can check yourself to more complex electrical issues. You’ll learn what’s normal, what you can fix and when it’s safest to call in help, so you can get your system back to charging at peak performance.
How Long Does It Take to Charge an Electric Car?
First, it’s important to know that “slow” can be relative. The charge rate depends on your equipment, your vehicle and even your home’s electrical system. What feels slow might be normal for your setup.
Understanding the three main charging levels helps determine how long to charge an electric car. Knowing how each one impacts charge time can also help you evaluate whether your charging speed is within the normal range or if there are potential underlying issues.
Level 1 Charging
This level uses a standard 120-volt household outlet, similar to plugging in a small appliance, like a laptop. It adds only 3-5 miles of range per hour and can take 40-50 hours to reach a full charge, making it the slowest charging method. Level 1 is best for occasional or overnight top-ups and shorter drives.
Level 2 Charging
This charging level uses a 240-volt outlet, like what powers a dryer. It’s the most common home charging setup, typically providing 25-40 miles of range per hour on average. In most cases, it delivers a full charge within four to 10 hours and is best for longer or more frequent commutes.
Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC)
Found mainly at public charging stations, this method bypasses the onboard charger to deliver high power directly to the battery, allowing it to reach full charge in just 20-30 minutes on average. It’s best for road trips and quick stops, but not designed for routine home use.
Top Reasons for a Slow Electric Car Charge
If your EV is charging unusually slowly at home, the issue often comes down to one of a few common causes. Run through this checklist before calling for service.
Your Vehicle’s Charge Settings
Many EVs allow drivers to set charging speed limits or schedule charging for specific times, such as off-peak utility hours. If these limits are enabled, your charger may appear slower than expected. Check your infotainment screen or companion app to confirm settings.
Your Battery’s Current Charge Level
An EV battery charges fastest when it is less full. As the battery’s state of charge (SoC) gets higher — typically above 80% — the vehicle’s battery management system intentionally slows down the charging speed.
This is a normal and crucial safety feature designed to protect your battery’s health and extend its lifespan, not a sign of a problem with your home charger.
The Power Setting on the Charger Itself
Some smart chargers allow you to adjust the amperage directly through an app or control panel. If the setting is lowered, the charger will supply less power. Review the charger’s settings to confirm if this is the cause.
A Faulty or Damaged Charging Cable
Wear and tear on the cable or connector can reduce charging efficiency. Look for cracks, frays, bent pins or debris in the connector. Even minor damage can interfere with the flow of electricity. If you spot an issue, discontinue use until the cable can be replaced.
Extreme Outdoor Temperatures
EV batteries are sensitive to temperature. In very hot or cold weather, your vehicle’s battery management system may automatically slow charging to protect the battery’s long-term health. While this function is normal, parking indoors or in a more temperate environment can help.
Your Home’s Electrical Load
When multiple major appliances, such as air conditioners, dryers or ovens, run simultaneously, some home energy management systems will reduce power to the EV charger to prevent overload. This can make charging slower, particularly during peak household energy use.
Battery Age and Health
Like all batteries, EV batteries lose capacity over time. An older battery or one with significant wear may accept a charge more slowly. While this isn’t necessarily a safety issue, it does affect overall charging speed and efficiency.
How to Speed up Your EV Charging at Home
If your charging speed feels slow, here are a few strategies you can try to get it back to normal:
- Upgrade to Level 2 charging: Consider installing a Level 2 EV charger for significantly faster charging times.
- Check your vehicle settings: Confirm that charging limits or schedules aren’t slowing the process.
- Inspect your cable and connectors: Keep these critical parts clean, dry and free from wear.
- Use surge protection: Protect your EV charger from power spikes that could damage components.
- Schedule charging for optimal times: Charge your EV during off-peak hours, when household energy demand is lower.
- Maintain your EV battery: Keep your battery healthier for longer with regular driving, proper storage and fewer 100% charges.
- Keep software updated: Update your EV’s onboard software and charger apps for the latest performance improvements.
When to Call a Professional for EV Charger Maintenance
If the checks above don’t solve the problem, the issue may lie within your electrical system or charging hardware. For your safety, these problems require a certified electrician. This is where professional EV charger maintenance becomes essential.
An Undersized or Tripped Circuit Breaker
Your EV charger must be on a dedicated circuit with the proper amperage. If the breaker is undersized or trips repeatedly, it’s a clear sign that the system needs professional evaluation.
Issues With Your Home’s Wiring
Older or inadequate wiring may not be able to handle the sustained electrical load of an EV charger. This can slow charging and poses a serious fire risk. A licensed electrician can inspect and, if needed, upgrade your wiring for safety and performance.
A Malfunctioning Charging Station
Charging stations can develop faults over time. Internal components may fail, causing reduced power delivery or inconsistent charging. Proper EV charging station maintenance and repair from a professional is the safest course of action to fix these internal faults.
Get Back to Fast, Reliable Charging With Wiretech Company
Diagnosing a slow EV charger can be frustrating, and dealing with electrical hardware is a job best left to the experts. Wiretech Company’s certified electricians provide comprehensive EV charger diagnostics and repair, pinpointing the exact cause of your slow charge, from the panel to the plug.
Contact Wiretech Company today for a professional EV charger inspection and get your system running at full power.
