Why Is My EV Charger Blinking Red?

Seeing your EV charger blinking red can be unsettling. A flashing red light is almost always a warning that something isn’t working correctly. While the exact meaning depends on your charger brand and model, the good news is that most causes are easy to diagnose and fix.

This guide explains the most common reasons EV chargers flash red, what the signals usually mean, and how to troubleshoot safely.

Common Causes of a Blinking Red Light

1. Charging Plug Connection Issue

A loose or misaligned charging connector can trigger a red flashing error. The charger isn’t making solid contact with your vehicle.

• Fix: Stop charging, unplug, and firmly reconnect the handle. Make sure the port and plug are clean and free of debris.

 2. Overheating Warning

Most EV chargers have built-in thermal sensors. If the unit or cable gets too hot, a blinking red light warns you to pause charging.

• Fix: Let the charger cool before restarting. Make sure it’s installed in a ventilated area and not exposed to direct sunlight.

 3. Ground Fault Detection

A blinking red light often indicates a ground fault, similar to how GFCI outlets trip when they detect unsafe current flow.

• Fix: Reset the breaker. If the light continues, stop using the charger and contact an electrician.

 4. Power Supply Problems

Voltage fluctuations or wiring issues can trigger red error lights. If your home’s electrical panel or wiring isn’t properly matched to your EVSE, you may see frequent errors.

• Fix: Have an electrician check the circuit, breaker size, and wiring to ensure they meet EV charger requirements.

 5. Internal Charger Fault

Sometimes the issue is inside the unit—like a failed relay, circuit board, or firmware error.

• Fix: Reboot the charger. If the red light persists, check the manufacturer’s app for error codes or contact customer support.

 When to Be Concerned

You should take a blinking red light seriously if:

• Charging stops immediately whenever the light flashes.

• The charger feels unusually hot.

• You hear unusual noises (clicking, buzzing, beeping).

• The error continues after simple resets.

 If any of these apply, it’s safest to stop charging until the issue is fixed.

Preventing Red Light Errors

• Always install your charger on a dedicated circuit.

• Keep the charging port and plug free of dust and moisture.

• Avoid using extension cords or third-party adapters.

• Regularly check your charger’s firmware for updates.

• Schedule professional inspection if errors repeat.

 Final Thoughts

A blinking red light on your EV charger is your equipment’s way of saying something needs attention. Sometimes it’s a simple fix, like reseating the plug. Other times, it points to overheating, wiring issues, or internal faults that require expert service.

At Frisco EV Charger Installation, we help EV owners stay safe with professional charger installation and troubleshooting. If your EVSE keeps flashing red, our licensed electricians can find the cause and get you charging reliably again.

👉 If you need help with EV charger installation in Dallas, Plano or the surrounding area, contact us today to schedule service or installation.