Your charging cable is the part of your home charger you handle most often. It carries high current, and much of its life is spent outdoors, in the garage or in the driveway. Simple care habits protect the cable, the connector and the plug, and they help the setup stay safe over time.
Handle the connector, not the cable
When you unplug, grip the connector or the plug body and pull it straight out. Pulling on the cable itself can strain the wire where it joins the connector, and repeated tugging at an angle can loosen internal parts. Let the cable hang loosely afterward instead of dropping the connector on the ground.
Avoid crushing, kinking and driving over it
Do not run over the cable with the car, a cart or a bicycle. Keep it away from doors, garage doors and anything that can pinch it. Avoid sharp bends. A kink can damage the conductors inside even when the outer jacket looks fine.
Store it properly
- Coil the cable loosely in a wide loop. Tight coils and twists build stress over time.
- Hang it on a hook or holder off the floor, away from standing water.
- Keep the connector covered or stored so dirt and moisture stay out.
- Do not leave the cable lying on a hot surface or near a heater.
Keep it clean and dry
Wipe the connector and cable with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Remove grit, road salt and dirt from the connector pins and the plug face. Do not spray cleaners into the connector, and make sure it is dry before you plug it in. If water gets into the connector, let it dry fully and check it before the next charge.
Watch for signs of wear
Check the cable every time you use the charger. Look for cracks in the jacket, flattened or bulging spots, exposed wire, scorch marks, melted plastic or a sharp smell. Also check the connector for bent or loose pins and for discoloration. Stop charging and contact support if you see any of these signs.
Other habits to avoid
Do not use the cable for towing, lifting or hanging anything. Do not pull it through doors or windows. Keep children and pets away from the cable while it is in use, and do not let anyone play with it or swing it.
How this applies to EVIQO chargers
All five EVIQO chargers come with a 25 ft cable. The J1772 models use a J1772 connector for non-Tesla EVs, and the NACS models use a NACS connector for Tesla vehicles. Whichever model you choose, the same care habits apply. EVIQO chargers carry a 3-year standard warranty, and a 4-year extended warranty is available for an extra charge.