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Reports of EV charger fires and homes damaged by overheated outlets are making headlines across the country. Several high-profile fires have been traced back to improper installation, outdated outlets, or poor-quality equipment. The good news is that these are problems a licensed electrician can help prevent. If you’re charging your EV at home, here’s what you need to know to stay safe and protect your home. These extra precautions are especially important if you’re using a 50-amp outlet or a NEMA 14-50 plug.
What’s Causing These EV Charging Fires?
Not all EV fires start with the battery. A growing number begin at the charging outlet, often due to loose wiring, faulty installation, or using cheap aftermarket equipment.
Many of these incidents involve 50-amp outlets and NEMA 14-50 plugs that weren’t installed or inspected by a licensed electrician. When these connections heat up under high load, they can melt, arc, or catch fire.
Real Incidents Making the News
An electric vehicle caught fire while charging inside a parking garage at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont. The fire led to major disruption, and in response, the village issued a temporary ban on new EV charger installations in parking structures. (CBS Chicago)
In Chester County, Pennsylvania, a family’s home nearly caught fire due to a malfunctioning EV charger. Investigators found that substandard wiring and a poorly installed outlet were to blame. (6abc Report)
More recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into Enel X Way’s JuiceBox residential EV chargers after multiple reports of overheating and fires, including a garage explosion. (AP News)
Another high-profile case involved NFL player Randall Cobb, whose family’s garage caught fire while their Tesla charger was in use. The family escaped safely, but the property damage was extensive. (New York Post)
Additionally, Porsche and Audi pulled back over 130,000 plug-in hybrid chargers due to potential outlet-related fire risks. Their 40-amp charging cables were found to be incompatible with many older or poorly maintained home outlets. (Autoblog Coverage)
How to Tell If Your Setup Is at Risk
There are warning signs that indicate your EV charging setup is a fire risk. These warning signs include:
- Your EV outlet or charger gets warm or hot after use
- Burning smells
- Visible discoloration
- Warping of your plug or wall plate
- Tripped circuit breakers during or after charging sessions
If you’re using a 50-amp outlet that wasn’t professionally installed, or you haven’t had it inspected since installation, you might be at risk without knowing it.
How Current Electrical Contractors Can Help
At Current Electrical Contractors, we specialize in safe, code-compliant EV charger installations for homeowners in Glenview and across the North Shore. We don’t just install your charger. We also evaluate your entire system, including your panel capacity and outlet safety. This ensures your installation is up to code and will operate safely.
If you’re already charging at home and want peace of mind, we offer EV charging inspections to identify and correct any unsafe conditions. Whether it’s replacing a questionable 50-amp outlet, upgrading your panel, or installing a dedicated EV circuit, we’ll do whatever is necessary to ensure safe operation.
EV Charger Fire FAQ
Are EV charger fires common?
EV charger fires are fairly rare. However, incidents are increasing as more homeowners attempt DIY installations or use outdated outlets. Several fires have been linked to poor installation practices, which a licensed electrician can help prevent.
Can an EV catch fire while charging at home?
Yes, EVs can catch fire while charging at home. Fires have started from the charger outlet itself, not just the battery.
How can I safely charge my EV at home?
To safely charge your EV at home, you should use a UL-certified charger, have your system installed by a licensed electrician, and never use adapters or extension cords.
What kind of EV charging setup is safest?
The safest EV charging setups are properly installed and inspected NEMA 14-50 outlets and hardwired Level 2 chargers.
Schedule an Electrical Inspection Today
As EV adoption continues to grow, so does the importance of safe, professional EV charger installation. The risks of overheating, fire, and long-term damage are real. However, professional services can mitigate these risks.
Schedule an inspection or installation with Current Electrical Contractors today and charge your EV with confidence, knowing your home is protected by expert, code-compliant work.
