Why Does My EV Charger Keep Tripping?

For EV owners, dealing with a tripping EV charger can be a technical headache. Unlike occasional users, advanced drivers often face persistent tripping issues due to complex setups, higher demands of electric cars charging stations, or lack of more faster charging stations (especially in the US).

There are some advanced causes and solutions, that can answer why does my EV charger keep tripping.

Reasons of EV Charger Tripping

1. Insufficient Circuit Ampacity

Particularly Level 2 chargers that run at 32-48 amps, EV chargers require a lot of power. As a precaution, the breaker will trip if the circuit does not have the necessary ampacity.

Technical insight: Circuit breakers are usually made to continually manage 80% of their rated capacity. For extended periods of time, a 40-amp circuit can only safely provide 32 amps.

The answer is to switch to a circuit that complies with NEC (National Electrical Code) regulations and has at least 125% of the charger’s rated amperage.

2. Neutral-to-Ground Voltage Imbalance

A voltage imbalance between the neutral and ground wires can cause residual current protection devices (like RCDs or GFCIs) to trip. This is common in improperly wired installations.

• Technical Insight: Modern EV chargers are sensitive to minor current leaks, often as low as 6mA, triggering safety devices.
• Solution: Use a multimeter to measure voltage between neutral and ground at the outlet. If the voltage exceeds acceptable levels, consult an electrician to correct the wiring.

3. Harmonic Distortion in Electrical Systems

High harmonic distortion, especially in homes with solar inverters, can interfere with EV chargers, causing them to trip. This is often an issue in homes with other energy-intensive electronics.

• Technical Insight: Harmonics are distortions in the electrical waveform, often caused by non-linear loads. EV chargers can misinterpret these distortions as faults.
• Solution: Install a harmonic filter or consult your solar inverter or smart EV Charging station provider for compatibility settings with EV chargers.

4. Ground Faults in the Charger or Vehicle

Electric vehicles and chargers both have ground fault detection systems. If either system detects a leakage current, the charger will trip to prevent electric shock.

• Technical Insight: Ground faults can occur due to water ingress, damaged connectors, or internal vehicle faults.

Solution:

1. Inspect the charger’s cable and connectors for damage or moisture.
2. Test the vehicle by charging at a different station.
3. Use diagnostic tools like an EVSE tester to identify ground faults.

5. Overly Sensitive Residual Current Devices (RCDs)

RCDs used in EV charging installations may be overly sensitive or incompatible with the charger’s leakage current.

• Technical Insight: Some chargers require a Type B RCD due to the possibility of DC leakage, which standard Type A RCDs cannot detect.
• Solution: Ensure your charging circuit uses a Type B RCD if recommended by the manufacturer.

6. Thermal Overload Protection

If the electric car charging station overheats due to environmental conditions or internal malfunctions, it will trip to protect its components.

• Technical Insight: Chargers installed outdoors without proper ventilation or shade are more prone to overheating.
• Solution:
  • Check the charger’s heat dissipation design and ensure it is not obstructed.
  • Relocate outdoor chargers to a shaded area or use a weatherproof enclosure with adequate ventilation.

Why Your EV Charger Keeps Tripping the Breaker

Electric vehicle (EV) chargers are convenient and efficient, but sometimes, users encounter frustrating issues with tripped breakers or circuit problems.

If you’re wondering, “Why does my EV charger keep tripping?” or dealing with a recurring issue like “wallbox charger keeps tripping,” don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Understanding the EV Charger Circuit Breaker

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to understand the role of the EV charger circuit breaker. A circuit breaker is designed to prevent electrical overloads by shutting off power when too much current flows through the system.

EV chargers typically require dedicated circuits to handle the high voltage and amperage demands. If you notice your EV charger trips the GFCI or circuit breaker regularly, it could be due to an underlying issue with the charger, the installation, or the electrical system itself.

Why Does My EV Charger Keep Tripping the Breaker?

One of the most common concerns for EV owners is why their chargers trip the breaker. If your Tesla charger keeps tripping the breaker or your BMW EV charger trips the breaker, several factors could be at play:

1. Overload on the Circuit

If the circuit is not equipped to handle the continuous current draw of your charger, it will trip. This can happen if you are using a level 1 charger tripping the breaker, which draws less power but still might exceed the capacity of an underpowered circuit.

2. Faulty Circuit Breaker

A faulty or outdated circuit breaker may be too sensitive, tripping unnecessarily when the charger is in use. If your EV charger keeps tripping the breaker, it might be time to inspect or replace the circuit breaker to ensure it’s operating correctly.

3. Incorrect Installation

If the installation wasn’t done correctly, the circuit may not be properly grounded, leading to breaker trips. ChargePoint tripping breaker issues can often be traced back to incorrect wiring or a poor connection, which can lead to a short circuit or an overload.

Common EV Chargers That Experience Tripped Breakers

Different brands and models of EV chargers can have unique issues that cause them to trip breakers. Let’s take a look at some common models and possible reasons they might be tripping:

Wallbox Charger Keeps Tripping

The Wallbox charger keeps tripping can be due to faulty wiring or a power surge. Ensure that your Wallbox unit is properly installed with the right circuit specifications to avoid issues.

Grizzle EV Charger Tripping Breaker

If your Grizzle EV charger is tripping the breaker, check the gauge of the wire being used for the circuit. Under-gauged wiring can cause the breaker to trip as it struggles to handle the electrical load.

Tesla Charger Tripping Breaker

Tesla chargers are known for their durability, but even they can have issues. If your Tesla charger keeps tripping the breaker, it could be caused by issues like grounding problems, incompatible circuits, or the charger drawing too much current from the circuit.

ChargePoint Tripping Breaker

When your ChargePoint charger trips the breaker, the most common cause is a mismatch between the charger’s power requirements and the circuit’s capacity. ChargePoint recommends a dedicated circuit, so if your installation lacks this, it could easily cause the breaker to trip.

BMW EV Charger Tripping Breaker

If your BMW EV charger trips the breaker, it might be related to faulty components, like the charger’s internal circuitry or the installation’s grounding. Also, it’s important to check if the breaker matches the EV charger’s specifications to avoid unnecessary trips.

EV Charger Trips GFCI: What Does It Mean?

A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is designed to protect against electrical faults that could cause injury. If your EV charger trips the GFCI, it could mean that there is a ground fault or short circuit somewhere in your system.

A GFCI trip can also occur due to moisture or damaged wiring. Check for any signs of damage to the charger or wiring, and ensure everything is properly connected and sealed.

Why Does My EV Charger Fuse Keep Tripping?

If you notice that your EV charger fuse keeps tripping, it’s often a sign of a blown fuse caused by an overload or a short circuit.

This can happen due to an overloaded circuit or if the charger is drawing more current than the system can handle. You’ll need to replace the fuse and ensure the system is properly upgraded to support your EV charging needs.

How to Prevent Your EV Charger from Tripping the Breaker

If you’re tired of hearing the dreaded “click” of the breaker tripping, here are some tips to help prevent future issues:

1. Upgrade Your Electrical System: Ensure your electrical system can support the charger. For higher-capacity chargers, consider upgrading your breaker panel and wiring to accommodate the load.
2. Use a Dedicated Circuit: Install a dedicated circuit specifically for your EV charger. This ensures that other appliances or devices are not competing for the same power, reducing the risk of tripping the breaker.
3. Check the Wiring: Ensure that the wiring is in good condition and is properly installed to handle the load.
4. Avoid Overcharging: Can you overcharge an EV battery? While modern EVs are designed to prevent overcharging, it’s still essential to ensure your charger and battery are operating correctly to avoid issues like overheating and excessive draw.

What to Do If Power Keeps Tripping

If your electric keeps tripping or the EV charger keeps tripping the breaker, here are some steps to take:

1. Turn Off the Charger: Turn off the charger and check for any visible issues like frayed wires, moisture, or burn marks.
2. Inspect the Circuit Breaker: Check if the breaker has worn out or is incorrectly sized for your charger. You may need to replace or upgrade it.
3. Contact a Professional: If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult an electrician. They can inspect the wiring, breaker, and charger to ensure everything is operating correctly.

What’s the Solution?

Dealing with an EV charger tripping breaker issue can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge, you can troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Whether it’s a Grizzle EV charger tripping the breaker, a Tesla charger issue, or a BMW EV charger tripping the breaker, understanding the cause and taking action can prevent future interruptions. Always ensure your charger is properly installed, and if issues persist, don’t hesitate to consult a professional to make sure your charging system is safe and functional.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to keep your EV home charger from tripping, ensuring a smooth and reliable charging experience.

Why Does My Car Charger Trip the RCD (Residual Current Device)?

An RCD is a safety device that detects earth leakage currents and trips the circuit to prevent electric shock. If your car charger trips the RCD, it indicates a ground fault or leakage of electricity to the earth, which is a safety concern. Grounding issues, water exposure, or damaged cables could be to blame.

Steps to Take if Your Car Charger Trips the RCD:

• Inspect the charger for visible signs of damage.
• Check the ground connection and wiring for any faults.
• Test the charger in a different outlet or location to see if the issue persists.
• If the RCD continues tripping, contact a licensed electrician to inspect the system.

Car Charger Tripping RCBO: What It Means

An RCBO (Residual Current Breaker with Overload protection) is a combination of an RCD and an overload protection breaker.

If your car charger trips the RCBO, the problem could be related to an overload or a ground fault in the system. This device is designed to protect both from excess current and leakage, so it’s crucial to check the charger’s power requirements and ensure the wiring is secure.

Tesla Charger Tripping Breaker 110V

Issue: A Tesla charger connected to a 110V outlet (level 1 charging) may trip the breaker due to an overload on the circuit. A 110V outlet is not designed to handle the sustained load that an EV charger demands, especially if the circuit is undersized or the breaker is incorrectly rated for the power draw of the charger.

Solution:

1. Verify Circuit Capacity: The circuit must be rated for at least 15A or 20A for optimal charging performance. If the charger draws more power than the circuit is rated for, the breaker will trip to prevent overheating. Tesla’s mobile charger can draw up to 12A on a 120V circuit, so it is critical that your outlet is on a circuit with appropriate amperage.
2. Inspect Wiring and Outlet: Inspect the electrical wiring for any signs of wear, corrosion, or poor connections. Any loose wiring or damaged insulation can result in excess current, triggering the breaker.
3. Upgrade Electrical Infrastructure: If the circuit is frequently tripping, consider upgrading the circuit to a dedicated 240V level 2 charger. This will provide a more stable and higher-capacity connection.
4. Check Breaker and Outlet Health: Examine the breaker and outlet for signs of aging or degradation. Older breakers may trip at lower amperage than their rated capacity. Replace the breaker if needed.

Level 1 Charger Tripping Breaker

Issue: Level 1 chargers (using standard 120V outlets) are susceptible to tripping breakers if the electrical circuit is overloaded or if there are issues with the installation, such as shared circuits or improper breaker ratings.

Solution:

1. Circuit Dedication: Ensure that the charger is connected to a dedicated circuit. Level 1 chargers are not designed to share circuits with other high-load appliances. A shared circuit can easily trip the breaker when other devices are in use.
2. Evaluate Circuit Load: If other electrical devices are on the same circuit, their combined load could exceed the breaker’s rating. Use a clamp meter to check the current draw of the entire circuit to ensure it does not exceed the breaker’s rating (usually 15A or 20A).
3. Upgrade Breaker Rating: The circuit breaker should be rated for the maximum expected current draw of the charger. For most Level 1 chargers, a 15A or 20A breaker is sufficient. If your breaker is underpowered for the charger, upgrading to a properly rated breaker can solve the issue.
4. Inspect for Faults: Test the outlet and wiring with a voltage tester to ensure the integrity of the circuit. A bad connection or short circuit could cause the breaker to trip.

ChargePoint Tripping Breaker

Issue: ChargePoint chargers are high-power devices that require a dedicated circuit. If the breaker trips, it is likely due to an overloaded circuit, improper breaker sizing, or a wiring fault.

Solution:

1. Circuit and Breaker Sizing: Ensure that the ChargePoint charger is connected to a dedicated circuit capable of handling the load. ChargePoint chargers typically require a 240V 40A circuit, but specific models may require higher or lower amperage.
2. Overcurrent Protection: Verify the breaker’s amperage rating. It should match or slightly exceed the charger’s maximum rated load. For instance, a 40A ChargePoint charger requires a 50A breaker to comply with NEC (National Electrical Code) standards.
3. Wiring and Connections: Inspect the wiring for any signs of overheating, damage, or incorrect gauge. For a 40A ChargePoint installation, the wire gauge should be at least 6 AWG. Inadequate wire size can cause excess resistance, leading to breaker trips.
4. Grounding and GFCI Testing: Make sure the ChargePoint unit is properly grounded and not connected to a GFCI outlet, which may inadvertently trip due to minor imbalances in current. Grounding issues can trigger trips as well.

Tesla Mobile Charger Tripping Breaker

Issue: A Tesla mobile charger can trip the breaker if the electrical circuit is improperly sized, shared, or if there is a malfunction in the charger’s components.

Solution:

1. Dedicated Circuit: The mobile charger should be plugged into a dedicated circuit that is rated for at least 15A, preferably 20A. Avoid sharing circuits with other appliances to prevent overloading.
2. Check the Breaker and Outlet: Inspect the breaker for its rating and condition. Older or undersized breakers may trip when subjected to the power demand of a mobile charger. Similarly, the outlet should be in good condition with no signs of corrosion or wear.
3. Electrical Faults: Run a diagnostic on the mobile charger using Tesla’s onboard diagnostics or third-party equipment. A malfunctioning unit could be drawing excess current or experiencing short circuits internally.

Level 2 Charger Tripping Breaker

Issue: Level 2 chargers draw significantly more power than Level 1 units. If the best brands breaker trips, it could be due to incorrect installation, wiring faults, or an undersized breaker.

Solution:

1. Proper Circuit Sizing: A Level 2 charger should ideally be connected to a 240V circuit with a minimum of 30A to 50A, depending on the charger’s power rating. Verify that the breaker is rated appropriately for the charger’s current draw.
2. Verify Installation Quality: Ensure that the installation adheres to the National Electric Code (NEC) requirements. The wire gauge, breaker size, and grounding methods should match the specifications provided by the charger manufacturer.
3. Overload Protection: If the breaker trips after prolonged charging, it could indicate an overload. Check for any other devices on the same circuit and disconnect them. Also, test the charger’s internal components to confirm that it is not faulty.

Grizzle EV Charger Tripping Breaker

Issue: Similar to other EV chargers, a Grizzle EV charger may trip the breaker due to improper circuit sizing, faulty wiring, or overloading.

Solution:

1. Circuit Rating: For the Grizzle EV charger, ensure the circuit is rated for at least 40A. A 50A breaker may be required for higher-powered models. Check the charger’s documentation for specific requirements.
2. Breaker and Wiring Inspection: Verify that the breaker is sized correctly for the load and that the wiring is free of damage. Use a multimeter to check for voltage drops or wiring faults that could contribute to the breaker tripping.
3. Electrical Faults: Perform a complete check on the charger and its components for any internal short circuits or malfunctions.

EV Charger Trips GFCI-Can Non-GFCI help?

Issue: An EV charger trips the GFCI breaker when there is an imbalance between the hot and neutral conductors or when there is a ground fault.

Solution:

1. Confirm Charger Grounding: Ensure that the charger is properly grounded according to local electrical codes. An improper ground can cause the GFCI to trip by detecting leakage current.
2. Check for Ground Faults: Use a ground fault tester to check for any leakage current. Even small leaks can cause GFCI breakers to trip. If leakage is detected, investigate the charger’s wiring and components for faults.
3. Upgrade to Non-GFCI: If the breaker continues to trip unnecessarily, consider replacing the GFCI breaker with a non-GFCI breaker, provided it meets code requirements and local safety standards.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

1. Use Diagnostic Tools:
   • EVSE Tester: Simulate charging conditions to detect faults in the charger or installation.
   • Insulation Resistance Tester: Check for leaks in cables and connectors.
2. Log Error Codes:
   Modern EV chargers often display error codes when they trip. Refer to the user manual or contact the manufacturer for code-specific electric vehicle charging point troubleshooting.
3. Check Firmware Updates:
   Some tripping issues are caused by outdated charger firmware. Update to the latest version to resolve compatibility issues or bugs.
4. Test with a Different Vehicle or Charger:
   Determine if the issue lies with the vehicle or the charging station by testing each independently.

FAQs for Advanced EV Owners

What causes an EV charger to trip?

An EV charger can trip due to overload, short circuit, ground faults, faulty wiring, or electrical surges.

What breaker do I need for an EV charger?

You need a dedicated circuit breaker, typically a Type B or Type C, rated to match the charger’s amperage (usually 30-60 amps).

Why do EV chargers break down?

EV chargers can break down due to power surges, overheating, wear and tear, faulty components, or poor maintenance.

Why does my EV charger keep turning off?

Your charger may turn off due to overheating, power supply issues, faulty wiring, or a malfunctioning internal component.

What size MCB for EV charger?

The recommended MCB size for an EV charger is typically 32-63 amps, depending on the charger’s power rating.

How many amps is an EV charger?

EV chargers usually range from 16 to 80 amps, depending on the model and charging speed. Most home chargers are 16-40 amps.