Whether you are cruising around the city or taking a road trip to explore the world, an e-scooter makes it easy to be adventurous. But what if you get caught in the rain? Are electric scooters waterproof?
Although most electric scooters are not completely waterproof, they can withstand a light shower. The water resistance factor will vary depending on your model and IP rating. You can take some steps to waterproof your e-scooter if it is necessary to ride in heavy rain.
This article will help you determine whether your e-scooter is waterproof. It will also give tips on keeping your e-scooter safe in wet conditions.
Do Electric Scooters Get Wet in Rain?
Wet weather can present a problem for electric scooters as water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Manufacturers recommend against riding your scooter in the rain.
Most electric scooters will not be affected by a few raindrops. But a heavy downpour or a hard rainstorm could cause damage to your electrical system. A faulty electrical component can cause the scooter to malfunction, leading to an accident or injury.
Water can damage the battery and internal components of your device. It can also cause rusting on parts vulnerable to moisture, such as the motor or electronics.
If you live in an area where it rains often, it is best to store your scooter indoors. If you must ride in the rain, ensure you have waterproof guards on all exposed areas of your vehicle. Make sure they are maintained so they do not leak water. This could short out sensitive electronics or corrode parts.
How Wet Conditions Damage Your Electric Scooter?
Wet conditions and freezing temperatures overwork the battery and electric motor of the scooter. As a result, you may see a drop in performance or a complete shutdown. Water damage can also reduce your E-scooters lifespan.
Different e-scooters behave differently in wet conditions. How rainy weather will affect your electric scooter depends on the quality of its electrical component. It also depends on the level of protection its water protection rating offers.
Your riding habits also determine the extent of the damage. For instance, if you change your driving pattern to fit the weather, you will likely avoid extensive damage. So take a safer, less wet path with few to no bumps.
If you own a low-quality model without a warranty and drive carelessly, you will be quick to damage your electric scooter.
Are Electric Scooters Waterproof?
While a few powerful electric scooter models are water and splash-resistant, none are waterproof. Even the models advertised as water and splash-resistant should not be out in the rain in most cases.
The global electric scooter market is expected to hit $31 billion by 2028. The growing E-scooter demand speaks volumes about the consumer interest in this thrilling gadget.
But what about its durability? Can it survive a rainy day? It depends on the scooter’s water protection rating.
A high waterproof rating for electric scooters might sound impressive. But the consensus is most models are only water resistant and can withstand short periods of light rain.
The waterproof rating does not guarantee actual protection against water and rain.
Recall: Water-resistant means your e-scooter can resist water damage but will not be protected from it. Waterproof means it can withstand being submerged in water for an extended time and still function.
A few parts of your e-scooter are waterproof if you invest in a reliable brand. For instance, some models have all-weather tires for maximum grip. This feature helps riders get a good grip during wet weather or swift turns.
You can learn about the water resistance of an electric scooter by looking at its IP rating.
IP rating highlights how well the scooter’s electrical enclosures are sealed. The more effective the sealing, the better it will withstand water, dust, and debris.
The IP rating is on a scale of 1-9. The higher the number, the more resistant an e-scooter is to water, soil, and other external elements.
A low IP rating signifies less protected electrical equipment.
Understanding the E-Scooter IP Rating
The IP rating is a four-digit code that tells you how well your e-scooter protects against the ingress of foreign objects and liquids. This rating is critical because it will help determine whether your product is safe to use in different environments.
The first number is for dust protection, and the second number is for liquid ingress protection. Riding your e-scooter in harsh weather is not advised regardless of its IP rating.
The most common IP rating is IP54. It offers minor water resistance, allowing you to ride on a wet surface and in light rain. But again, no brand recommends doing that.
We will overview some popular Ingress Protection ratings and what they mean. First, you would need to check your user manual to find the IP ranking of your E-scooter.
- IP54. If your waterproof scooter has an IP rating of 54, it provides a degree of water resistance. You can ride it on wet ground and during light rain. Nonetheless, experts do not recommend using it during rainy conditions.
- IP55. E-scooters with IP 55 rating have medium water resistance. You can ride them during sparse rain and over the puddles. The likelihood of the scooter getting damaged is minor. But since there is not a guarantee that wet weather conditions will not harm its electric system, you better remain cautious.
- IP56. If you own an IP56 water resistance rating device, riding it during steady rain and over shallow puddles should not be a problem. Consider checking the manufacturer’s advice for a comfortable ride during the rain.
- IP57. You are on the safe side with an IP57 rating for an E-scooter. You can temporarily submerge your electric scooter in water.
It is best to resist riding or show caution when out during sparse rainfall. This precautionary step will boost your scooter’s longevity and protect its electronic component.
Electric Scooters With No IP Rating
An electric scooter with no IP rating signifies two things. Either the scooter did not undergo a test to ensure its water resistance capability, or it failed to meet the industry standards.
This situation keeps the brand from displaying an IP rating on the scooter’s manual. If your scooter does not have an IP rating, it does not offer much protection from water or dust particles. This could mean it is not safe for use in wet, dusty environments.
You should contact the manufacturer to inquire about its water-resistant capacity. Or you can buy a water-resistant model.
Six Easy Ways to Waterproof Your Electric Scooter
You do not want to risk getting stuck in a downpour or driving through a puddle and ruining your expensive e-scooter.
While you cannot make your electric scooter waterproof, you can take steps to make it resistant to water. Here are some tips for keeping your e-scooter dry during inclement weather:
1. Protect the Connectors
Electrical connectors are prone to moisture damage. Silicone-based conformal coatings can protect them from external harm to ensure water resistance.
Additionally, you can use a dielectric grease that acts as an antioxidant.
First, separate all the components using liquid tape. Next, apply a silicone-based coating to make the connectors waterproof. Let it sit for up to 10 hours or more.
2. Waterproof the LED Screen and Power Button
Your scooter’s LED screen and power button are also susceptible to water damage. Here is how you can protect them:
- Use adhesive tape to cover the power button. This trick will keep water out and prevent accidental presses.
- Cover the LED screen with a transparent plastic wrap to prevent dust and water from reducing the visibility.
3. Purchase a Waterproof Cover
A waterproof cover for an electric scooter protects it from harsh weather and keeps it in good condition when stored or parked outdoors. It serves as a shield to keep out moisture and maintain optimal performance.
Also, it only costs a few dollars and saves you money down the line. For instance, you will not need to spend on faulty electric component repairs due to water damage.
Finding a waterproof cover at any major retailer or online is easy. Look for one with high ratings from previous users and ensure it fits your scooter model before buying.
4. Tape the Charging Ports and Deck Gaps
A duct tape offers a quick, cheap, and reliable way to make your scooter resistant to water. You can conceal some exposing parts of your scooter with tape for improved water resistance.
The tape will secure the charging ports and gaps under your scooter’s deck. This keeps out unwanted dust and dirt from destroying the functionality of your electric scooter.
If you can not find a tape for your scooter’s color, go for a neutral tone. You can also paint the tape a color that matches your scooter’s paint.
Make sure you redo taping every few months to protect the scooter’s wires from water. Be careful not to apply the duck tape to all visible holes. A few are for ventilation and should not be sealed.
Further, cover your electric scooter’s charging port if it is close to the ground. The charging port is vulnerable to rain. Protecting it keeps your scooter running efficiently.
5. Use Silicone
You can also waterproof your e-scooter using Loctite or silicone. Most electric scooters have random holes around the handlebars and deck. You can use silicone to seal them.
But you can not pour silicone into every hole. Some holes are functional, while others are cosmetic. So how can you figure out which holes to fill? A quick test will tell you.
Place your E-scooter off the ground, push the throttle, and notice which holes release air. You can seal all the holes that do not let out air and leave the rest.
6. Extend the Mudguard
If the mudguard is too short, your e-scooter may kick up dust or water when you ride in the rain. We know it is annoying to get your clothes muddy and wet while riding your e-scooter.
So grab some duct tape and add extra centimeters to the rear mudguard. Roll the duct tape till the mudguard extends. This simple hack will keep you from splashing dirt and grime on your clothes.
When to Avoid Riding an Electric Scooter?
Although riding an electric scooter is convenient and fun, there are times when you may need to exercise responsibility. Certain conditions are unfavorable for taking your scooter out for a ride.
Experts do not recommend riding during low visibility, heavy downpours, and freezing temperatures. Such conditions pose a threat to your scooter’s longevity and performance.
Let us learn more about these conditions.
When There is Low Visibility
Low visibility caused by heavy rain, snowstorms, fog, dust, and smoke can result in life-threatening situations. You must ensure you can see your surroundings when riding an e-scooter.
So if there is a lack of lighting in the area or it is raining or foggy, you should wait until conditions improve before heading out.
While you can navigate in the dark with a lighting system, you are still at risk of a collision. Always check the weather report to see if your destination is at risk of poor visibility.
When The Temperature is Freezing Outside
Riding your E-scooter in freezing temperatures is risky. Freezing temperatures and rain can damage your scooter’s battery and motor.
Additionally, riding during such conditions is not safe for you either. Scooters have poor traction in snow, putting you at risk of falling.
If your scooter has good traction on dry pavement, it can still lose its grip on ice and snow.
During Heavy Rainfall
Riding an electric scooter during heavy downpours is not recommended. This is because water can get into your battery compartment or electrical connections. This can cause serious damage to your scooter.
The electrical components can fail if your e-scooter submerges in the water.
Even drizzles may cause problems for electric scooters with moisture buildup. This buildup can cause corrosion and rust, leading to damage that requires expensive repairs.
What to Do When Your Electric Scooter Gets Too Wet?
Preventive measures can help you out if your electric scooter gets too wet. You should turn off your e-scooter immediately and allow its electrical components to dry.
Although it is tempting to turn on the machine to see if it works, be patient. When you try to ride an e-scooter exposed to excess moisture, it can result in electric shock or a short circuit.
Here are some precautionary steps to take If you’ve ridden your electric scooter through a puddle.
Turn it Off
Water in the e-scooter encourages the phase and neutral wires to meet. As a result, they will warp, cause short circuits, and make your device unusable. Turn off your e-scooter when it gets wet to keep it from short-circuiting.
Let it Dry
Drying the electric scooter is as essential as turning it off. The wet components will take time to become functional. So you should keep them in a dry place for several hours.
Make sure the temperature is not too hot or cold for the device. It will keep the scooter from drying. Instead, experts suggest drying your e-scooter at room temperature.
You can also use a towel to soak the moisture from the wet parts. We recommend waiting 48 hours to ensure the electrical circuits are free of humidity and moisture.
Note: the drying duration can vary depending on the extent of water damage. If your e-scooter was submerged in water, it is best to let it dry for a week.
If your electric scooter has a battery compartment, locate it and unscrew the screws. Now, detach the power connector and let the internal parts dry as the case remains open.
You must wear insulating gloves as a safety measure when dealing with internal components as they store current.
You may want to speed up the drying process with a hair dryer. It risks displacing the water to other hard-to-reach areas that could take longer to dry. So give your e-scooter extra time to dry before turning it on again.
Check the Waterproof Rating
While it may seem pointless to check the IP rating of your e-scooter after it got wet, you can have an idea of your gadget’s tolerance to water.
If your E-scooter has an IP54 rating, it can withstand medium rain and moderate water splashes. That does not mean you can ride it on wet pavements and puddles.
So, if your e-scooter got “too wet” with this IP rating, it will take considerable time to dry completely. Keeping it non-operational for a week will dry its internal components.
If your scooter’s waterproof rating is higher, it will endure water splashes and rain even better. A 48-hour drying time is enough to make it operational again.
What to do if an Electric Scooter Fails to Function After Getting Wet?
Minor water damage, like splashing, will only need a dry-out period. If water penetrates your scooter’s console or body, you may need to replace parts.
A malfunctioning motor, controller, display, power button, or battery will keep your e-scooter from working. The key is to let your electric scooter dry for at least a week.
Once the internal components dry completely, reconnect the battery, charge it, and turn on your device.
If that does not work, it is time to call a professional. An e-scooter expert can identify the underlying issue and fix it immediately.
Your warranty does not extend to water-damaged components. So, you would have to pay for the repairs.
You can also try different troubleshooting steps with basic technical knowledge.
Test the Battery
You can perform a quick test on your electric scooter’s battery to determine if its failure keeps your device from turning on.
The battery is in the E-frame or footrest. If you are confused, you can refer to the user manual to learn about your battery’s location.
Once you locate the battery compartment, here is what you need to do:
- Switch off your scooter and air dry it for at least a week.
- Wear insulating gloves.
- Remove your scooter’s tray (footrest) to find the battery.
- Disconnect the power supply and look for humidity or water traces.
- Use a multimeter to measure the battery’s voltage if there is no moisture.
- If the battery displays voltage like its original voltage, it is working fine. Zero or low battery voltage indicates a fault. Thus, you must replace it.
Replace the Battery
Replacing the battery is a piece of cake. It is a little tricky to find a compatible battery. First, refer to the user manual to see the precise battery type.
Purchasing the wrong battery will not power your electric scooter, and the effort you will put into replacements will go down the drain.
Check for compatibility before purchasing. Once you have the right battery, flip open the battery compartment, remove the old battery, and add the new one.
Make sure you fit the battery into the compartment. Also, an open battery compartment allows you to inspect the battery terminals. If you spot rust or debris, clear it with an alcoholic pad.
Now, place the new battery and secure it by fastening the compartment screws.
These steps will likely make your e-scooter operational if a malfunctioning battery is a culprit. A professional can inspect and resolve the issue if water has made its way into other internal components.
Protect the Electric Scooter From Rain With These Hacks
If you cannot keep yourself from riding your electric scooter during the rain, you need to protect it from water damage.
Here is what to do:
- Go for an E-Scooter With a High IP Rating. An e-scooter with a low IP rating will not do well in wet conditions. If you do not want weather elements to stand in your adventures, buy an e-scooter with a high IP rating – think IP57.
- Buy a Waterproof Bag. You can purchase a custom-made waterproof bag for your e-scooter. While you cannot ride with the bag on your scooter, it will protect your gadget when parked outdoors. Besides, you can carry it around and cover your scooter during an unexpected downpour.
- Waterproof Your Scooter. Waterproofing your electric scooter means taking steps to cover its non-functional holes and protecting its visible outer parts. This process typically involves using duct tape or a sealant like silicon to provide protection.
Helpful Tips for Riding an E-Scooter in Rain
Rain will not stop some people from getting in a long-awaited ride on their e-scooter. If that sounds like something you would do, we have curated some tips to ensure your safety in rainy conditions.
Wear a Helmet
When the rain pours down and accumulates in your visor or when the sun is blazing hot with no clouds, it might seem inconvenient to put on a helmet.
A helmet helps protect against head injuries during an accident. Otherwise, your vision will be impaired by the raindrops that fall into your eyes.
Keep Your Hair Tied
It is easy for hair to get caught in the wind while riding an e-scooter, so it is best to keep your hair pulled back into a ponytail or bun. This way, they will not get in your face when riding around town.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing appropriately means dressing for the rain. A weatherproof dress keeps you dry and warm when riding in wet conditions. A few options include heavy-duty shoes, a waterproof jacket, weatherproof pants, and gloves.
Use LED Indicators
Scooter lights and reflectors are not limited to nighttime riding. Instead, they help you be seen when visibility is limited due to fog, rain, or smoke.
LED indicators allow for safe travel during inclement weather and protect other riders or passersby.
Ride Slowly
The key is to slow down when riding on wet and slippery roads. The slower you ride your e-scooter, the more control you will have over it. So you will avoid mishaps and minimize risky situations.
Choose the Path Cautiously
Rain can mingle dirt and other unwanted elements. So, when you cross a puddle with your e-scooter, you make it vulnerable to excess water and harmful foreign objects.
Take a cleaner path and avoid bumping into dirt and debris for a smooth ride.
Clean the Scooter After Riding
If you took all the safety measures but forgot to clean your scooter after the ride, you are up to no good. Some maintenance is critical to keep your e-scooter running in top condition. For example, you must wipe off excess water and dirt from it.
Clean your E-scooter thoroughly and let it dry completely before turning it on.
Conclusion
Electric scooters are lightweight and easy to maneuver. This makes them perfect for navigating crowded cities and suburbs.
But can you use your electric scooter during a rainstorm? Are electric scooters waterproof?
While many electric scooter brands claim their products are waterproof, that is usually not the case. No electric scooters are 100% waterproof, but they excel at resisting a light shower.
Check the water protection rating before buying an e-scooter. Ride safely!
