As electric vehicles (EVs) increase in popularity, a concern that may cross your mind is securing your home’s outdoor EV charging station. While the risk of cable theft exists, energy theft—where someone uses your home EV charger without your consent—is quite rare. The good news is it’s easily preventable with the correct information and tools.
What is energy theft?
Energy theft is someone using your home EV charger without your consent. As EVs are becoming increasingly common (1 in 4 new cars sold globally were electric in 2023), the minimal risk of someone sneaking a charge from your setup is something homeowners should be aware of. However, there’s no need to worry. Here’s how to keep your charger safe, and solely for your own use.
Smart scheduling to the rescue.
Did you know that many home EV chargers come equipped with scheduling tools? Setting specific charging hours greatly decreases the risk of unauthorized access. Only someone with access to your schedule could potentially tap into your energy, and even then, they would need to physically connect their vehicle during those exact hours. The Ivy App enables you to set a charging schedule for when you’re home, preventing unauthorized use of your outdoor Ivy Home charger at other times.
Lock it down.
Give your home EV charging station an extra layer of security with a lock feature. Many home chargers come with a software or hardware lock that prevents them from being activated without proper authorization, typically through a mobile app or a physical key.
Software locks: This type of lock utilizes a mobile app that connects to your charging station via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Once paired, the app acts as your key, allowing you to initiate and stop the charging session remotely via its built-in PIN code system.
Hardware locks: These physical locks typically require a key for activation. They function similarly to software locks, preventing unauthorized charging until unlocked. This method might be preferred by those who are less comfortable with app-based solutions.
These locking features work well to act as a deterrent and add an extra layer of security.
Add surveillance.
Installing a security camera is recommended, as it can visually monitor your home EV charging station and keep you aware of any unusual activity around the vehicle while charging. This small addition can deter potential misuse and send alerts if any unexpected activity occurs.
When selecting a security camera for your home EV charging station, consider factors such as:
Weatherproofing: Ensure the camera is built to withstand outdoor elements, including rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.
Night vision: Choose a camera with night-vision capabilities for clear visibility even in low-light conditions.
Remote access: Look for a camera that allows you to view live footage and receive alerts remotely through your smartphone.
Private and protected charging spots.
Considering the design and installation of most home EV chargers, which are often located in garages or private driveways, unauthorized use is unlikely. The likelihood of someone discreetly using your charger would be quite low. Placing chargers in private, secured areas minimizes the chances of energy theft, emphasizing the safety and exclusivity of home charging stations.
Moreover, the time required to charge an electric vehicle adds another layer of deterrence, making it even less likely that someone could use your charger without you noticing. Here’s a guide to EV charging speeds to help you understand how long it might take to charge your car fully.
For additional security tips or to discover a suitable charger for your electric vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ivy. If you need a personalized estimate for our charging solutions, fill out our estimate form today, and we’ll provide you with all the information you need to keep your EV powered up and ready to go. Stay charged!
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