Just as we modify our wardrobes in response to temperature changes, owners of electric vehicles also need to adjust their charging strategies to account for changing weather. As summer approaches, worries about charging efficiency and speed surface from the effects of high temperatures on EV infrastructure are raised; however, an effortless yet fascinating solution known as the “wet-towel trick” has surfaced, which involves cooling down overheated charging station handles.
The wet-towel technique lowers the temperature of a hot charging station handle and may increase charging speeds by covering it with a damp cloth. Despite its simplicity, reports indicate that this approach provides positive results, especially at Tesla Supercharger stations. Due to overheating, these stations—which keep an eye on cable temperatures for safety—may notice a decrease in charging speed, particularly in older infrastructure that lacks cooling systems.
Anyone who has ever tried to escape cruelly hot weather understands the reasoning behind the wet-towel method. In the same way that a cold, damp towel provides rapid relief from heat, cooling down overheated charging handles may improve charging speeds. This idea is especially relevant to older V2 Supercharger stations, as exposure to sunlight can raise handle temperatures, requiring speed decreases to preserve safe operating parameters.
Several instances show notable increases in charging rates after utilising the wet-towel method. Charging rates increasing from 60 kW to 95 kW or from 58 kW to 119 kW highlight this method’s potential advantages. It’s essential to remember that different people may have different experiences and that—aside from more oversized vehicles like the Cybertruck—the wet-towel trick’s efficacy seems to be restricted at V3 Superchargers.
To minimise safety concerns, it’s critical to understand that EV charging infrastructure is made to endure moisture exposure, guaranteeing safe functioning even during rain. Although the wet-towel approach adds more moisture to the charging handle, the strong safety safeguards built into EV chargers and cars reduce possible threats. However, users should proceed cautiously and utilise the approach at their own risk, acknowledging no official approval or authorization.