Is your PowerWise 36V charger not working? Whether it’s not turning on, won’t charge the batteries, or suddenly stopped mid-cycle, this guide covers how to troubleshoot common PowerWise charger issues and get your golf cart charging again.
Before replacing batteries, try this proven method to recondition old golf cart batteries and restore them to life. It’s simple, affordable, and works on most 36V systems.
How the PowerWise 36V Charger Works
The PowerWise 36V charger, commonly used in older EZGO carts, uses a relay and control board to detect voltage, engage charging, and shut off automatically when the pack is full. A low-voltage battery pack or bad wiring can stop it from working properly.
Common PowerWise Charger Problems and Solutions
1. Charger Doesn’t Turn On
If your charger doesn’t make any noise or show signs of life:
- No AC power: Make sure the outlet is working (test with another appliance).
- Blown fuse inside charger: Remove cover and check fuses near the relay board.
- Low battery pack voltage: Most PowerWise models require 28–30V minimum to activate charging.
Fix:
- Use a voltmeter to check outlet and input cord.
- If fuse is blown, replace it with the same rating.
- If the battery pack reads below 28V, briefly jump charge the batteries individually, or use a 12V charger in pairs, then try again.
Still low on voltage? Learn how to recondition your 36V batteries at home and bring them back from the dead.
2. Charger Turns On But Doesn’t Charge
This usually points to an issue with internal wiring, relay failure, or battery connection:
- Bad relay not sending power to transformer
- Control board not sensing voltage
- Damaged or dirty DC plug contacts
Fix:
- Listen for a “click” inside the charger. No click = relay not working.
- Check the voltage at the output plug and inside terminals after turning on.
- Clean prongs on the plug with sandpaper or contact cleaner.
3. Charger Starts Then Shuts Off
If the charger kicks on then shuts off too soon:
- Overheating transformer: Check for dust, blocked vents, or fan failure.
- Faulty control board: May misread pack voltage and trigger early shutoff.
- Loose wiring or bad solder joint inside: Inspect wiring for burns or looseness.
Fix: Clean the charger vents, inspect for melted wiring or loose components, and replace the control board if behavior continues.
4. Blown Fuse or Sparks When Plugged In
This points to a short circuit:
- Cracked or melted wires inside charger
- Shorted capacitor or diode
- Faulty transformer
Fix:
- Unplug the charger and open the case
- Look for signs of burnt or melted components
- Test continuity on diodes and replace blown fuses with same rating
How to Test Charger Output
Use a voltmeter to check DC output:
- Set meter to DC volts
- Place leads on the DC plug terminals (while plugged into AC)
- You should see 36V to 44V output
No output? The relay, board, or transformer may be bad. You can repair or replace these parts individually. Before replacing expensive components, try reconditioning your battery pack to rule out low voltage as the cause.
PowerWise Charger Parts You Can Replace
| Component | Symptoms | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Relay | No click or power to batteries | Replace with same model relay |
| Control Board | Shuts off early or doesn’t start | Install new OEM or aftermarket board |
| Capacitor | Sparks, humming, or no output | Replace with equivalent µF rating |
| Diodes | Low or no DC output | Use voltmeter to test; replace if open |
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Always plug into wall before connecting to the cart
- Keep vents clean and ensure airflow
- Inspect plug prongs regularly for burns or damage
- Use a surge protector to avoid power spikes
Charging Safety Tips
- Never charge with damaged cables or connectors
- Keep charger on a dry, elevated surface
- Do not charge frozen or boiling batteries
- Ensure good ventilation when charging lead-acid batteries
Still Not Charging? Your Batteries May Be the Issue
Before assuming the charger is bad, check your batteries. If one or more are below 5.5V (for 6V units), the charger may not activate at all. Instead of replacing them, try reconditioning them using this proven DIY system.
Conclusion
The PowerWise 36V charger is reliable, but as it ages, issues with relays, fuses, and low-voltage batteries can stop it from working. Use this guide to check each part step-by-step and fix most problems yourself—saving time and money.
And if your batteries are the issue—don’t replace them just yet. Learn how to recondition your old batteries and bring them back to life today.
Click here to get started: Restore your battery power now.