Question: Why do I need a Charger Light?
AnswerIf you always park and charge in a well-lighted garage, congratulations! You probably don’t need it. Click here to return to google. Unlike gas powered vehicles where you always fill up at a gas station under the glare of dozens of fluorescent lights, many people charge outside in a dimly lit area. Unless your EV has a built-in charging port light, it can be very difficult to see the charging port.
Question: What a great idea. How did you come up with it?
AnswerOut of necessity. I parked my Chevy Bolt in my driveway, and the light from my garage was on the other side. The charging port was like a black hole. I usually carry my laptop in one hand and plug in the charger with the other, so wanted a light that would be hands free and turn on and off automatically.
Question: What a stupid idea. Why can’t I just use the flashlight on my phone?
AnswerYou certainly can! Let’s compare that method vs the Charger Light.
Cell phone flashlight method:
- Remove phone from purse or pocket
- Turn on phone
- Activate flashlight (requires two hands), one to hold phone, the other to turn on flashlight.
(was it swipe or swipe down, I forgot) - Point flashlight at car
- Open charging door
- Grab charger with other hand
- Insert charger
- Turn off flashlight
- Return phone to pocket or purse
Charger Light method:
- Open charging door
- Insert charger
Is that worth $29? You decide.
Question: How long will the batteries last?
AnswerLR44 batteries cost anywhere from 10 cents in China to $7.99 each at your local Walgreens. We buy the best quality in bulk with a current rating of 150 mA-hr or more. Theoretically, the batteries should last for 1000+ activations. Actual battery life will depend on usage as well as weather but we have had customers report that their batteries have lasted for more than 3 years.
Question: Can I replace the batteries?
AnswerYes! The charger light uses 3 standard LR44 batteries which are the same size as A76 or AG13. Not all are created equal however! We use the highest quality we can find with a capacity rating of 150 mA-hr. You can get others very cheap but they will not last as long.
To replace the batteries, remove the screw at the top front and pull the cover forward. Replace the batteries in the same orientation and replace the cover and screw. If you charge outside, re-seal the two halves first with silicone before screwing together.