Why EV Chargers Fail to Start After Software Updates in Hertford

However, many EV owners in Hertford are surprised when their charger suddenly refuses to start after an update has been installed. In most cases, the charger itself is not faulty. Instead, the update has revealed an underlying electrical issue that was already present.

Understanding why this happens can save homeowners unnecessary stress and help prevent repeated charging failures.

Why EV Chargers Rely on Software More Than You Think

Modern EV chargers are essentially computers connected to your electrical system. Their software controls how the charger communicates with your vehicle, monitors safety conditions and manages power flow.

When a software update is installed, the charger often begins enforcing stricter safety checks. What once passed unnoticed may now trigger a fault that prevents charging altogether.

This is why many Hertford homeowners experience problems immediately after an update, even though the charger worked perfectly before.

Electrical Safety Checks Become More Sensitive

One of the most common reasons EV chargers fail to start after an update is increased sensitivity to electrical conditions. New software versions often improve fault detection to meet updated safety standards.

After an update, the charger may begin checking earthing quality, voltage stability and circuit integrity more thoroughly. If your home’s electrical system does not fully meet modern requirements, the charger may block charging as a precaution.

This is especially common in older Hertford properties where wiring has not been upgraded recently.

Earthing Issues Are Often the Root Cause

Many software updates enhance how EV chargers monitor earth connections. Poor or shared earthing systems that previously allowed charging can suddenly cause the charger to lock out.

The charger may detect resistance changes, unstable ground readings or interference from other circuits. These issues are logged internally and can prevent charging from starting.

Homeowners often assume the update caused the fault, when in reality it exposed an earthing issue that needs professional attention.

RCD Compatibility Problems After Updates

Some EV chargers require specific types of RCD protection to operate safely. After a software update, the charger may begin checking whether the correct RCD type is installed.

If an older Type AC RCD is present instead of a Type A or Type B, the charger may refuse to start. This is a common issue in Hertford homes where consumer units have not been upgraded alongside the EV charger installation.

The charger is not failing. It is preventing a potentially unsafe charging condition.

Communication Errors Between Charger and Vehicle

Software updates can also affect how the charger communicates with your vehicle. New firmware may change the handshake process that occurs when you plug in.

If voltage levels fluctuate, the charger may abort the connection before charging begins. This can look like a software fault but is often caused by supply instability within the home.

Repeated failed handshakes are commonly linked to shared circuits or overloaded consumer units.

Network and WiFi Factors Play a Role

Smart chargers rely on stable internet connections for configuration and tariff scheduling. After an update, chargers may attempt to reconnect or revalidate settings.

If the charger struggles to connect to WiFi or experiences interference, it may not complete its startup process correctly. This is more likely in garages or external installations where signal strength is weak.

In Hertford homes, repositioning routers or adding signal boosters often resolves these issues.

Load Balancing Settings Can Trigger Lockouts

Some updates activate advanced load balancing features by default. These settings monitor how much power your home is using and may prevent charging if demand appears too high.

If the charger incorrectly interprets household load, it may refuse to start charging altogether. This often occurs in homes with electric showers, heat pumps or older fuse boards.

A professional configuration check usually resolves the issue without replacing the charger.

Why Resetting the Charger Is Not Always the Answer

Many homeowners attempt repeated resets after an update, hoping the issue will disappear. While resets may temporarily clear fault codes, they do not address the underlying cause.

Without proper testing, the charger will likely fail again. In some cases, repeated resets can even corrupt settings or logs, making diagnosis harder.

EV Charger Diagnostics in Hertford

At JJB Electrical, we regularly inspect EV chargers in Hertford that have stopped working after software updates. By reviewing diagnostic logs and testing the electrical supply, we identify whether the issue lies with earthing, RCD protection, voltage stability or configuration settings.

This approach prevents unnecessary charger replacements and restores reliable charging safely.

Book an EV Charger Inspection in Hertford

If your EV charger will not start after a software update, it is a sign that something needs attention. Addressing it early helps protect your vehicle, your home and your electrical system.

For EV charger inspections and upgrades in Hertford, contact JJB Electrical on 01992 276087. We are happy to help you get charging again safely and reliably.