Hey everyone, I live in a nice neighborhood, but there’s a fair bit of petty theft around (Canada, west coast). I don’t have a garage, but I want to install an EV charger without worrying about it getting stolen. Most of the thieves here aren’t too sophisticated, just looking for easy grabs. Here’s what I’m thinking:
Build a lockable outdoor locker to keep the charger secure.
Our driveway is right next to the main breaker panel in the basement—could I install the charger there and run the cord outside?
Would love to hear any suggestions or tips on these ideas. Thanks in advance!
Michael said:
Would a hardwired EV Connector mounted to the wall be an issue where you live? That’s usually the standard way to set it up.
I saw a security video of someone backing up their car, cutting the charging cable, and driving off! The owner said next time they’d install the charger further back so it wasn’t so visible.
@Jason
Some EVs lock the cable to the car as long as it’s locked. Not sure if that would help much in that situation. A motion sensor light might help too.
Michael said: @Jason
Some EVs lock the cable to the car as long as it’s locked. Not sure if that would help much in that situation. A motion sensor light might help too.
If they’re willing to cut the cable, they probably won’t care about the lock. They’d just cut both ends.
Gabriel said:
A locked box outside sounds like a good idea. Running a charging cord through a wall might not meet building codes, though.
That’s right, usually not to code. But there is an Eaton product that includes a smart breaker for situations like this. You run the wiring through the wall to a junction box, then connect to the charging cable. Here’s a link: https://www.platt.com/p/2034764
Grizzl-e chargers can be hardwired and they sell a lock to secure it to the base. Also, you could put up warning signs about the risk of electric shock if tampered with. Sometimes just making it look dangerous can keep thieves away.
I buried mine under gravel after a guy tried to mess with it. It’s hidden now, and the cord just looks like a garden hose. Hopefully, that keeps it safer.
I installed my charger inside the garage and ran the cable through a small hole with a vent cover. Now I can charge whether my car’s parked inside or out front.
I have the same concerns. I plan to install a simple outlet outside and just plug in my EVSE when needed. I’ll take the EVSE with me after charging so the cable isn’t left out for long periods.
If theft is a big concern, you might want to hide the charger or make it less appealing. Another idea is mounting it up high, like on the ceiling, so it’s harder to reach.
