Electric vehicle (EV) sales grew by a dramatic 65 percent in 2022, according to Kelley Blue Book parent company Cox Automotive. While the popularity of electric vehicles surges, the need for safe, reliable EV charging stations is critical.
This is where routine maintenance comes into play. Staying on top of regular maintenance activities ensures that your EV charging stations are safe to use. Electrical components can wear out over time, so regular inspections and maintenance can identify and address potential safety hazards before they become a problem.
with Amy Soderquist – Director of Sales – EV Operations today to learn more about our EV charging station maintenance solutions.
Another important benefit of routine maintenance is maximizing uptime. EV drivers rely on charging stations to be available when needed, and unexpected downtime can be a major inconvenience. By keeping up with routine maintenance, you can help prevent unexpected outages and ensure your charging stations are always available.
Proper maintenance can also improve charging efficiency, reducing charging times and improving the overall user experience. By identifying and addressing issues that can impact charging efficiencies, such as faulty connectors or damaged cables, you can help ensure that EV drivers have a positive charging experience.
Before we dive into maintenance best practices, it’s important to identify some of the most common EV charging station issues.
Why do EV charging stations fail?
EV charging stations can fail for various reasons, but the most common causes include power supply issues, malfunctioning chargers, and poor maintenance. Other common factors may include inactivity, power surges, and software or firmware issues.
EV charging stations that are out of service can inconvenience EV drivers and negatively impact their perception of electric vehicles. It’s also important for stations to avoid issues such as deferred maintenance, outdated software, obscured operating and payment instructions, and damaged charging connectors.
Most EV drivers charge their vehicles at home, but this is not an option for people who live in apartments or dwellings without garages. As EVs become more prevalent, the need for well-maintained charging stations will become more important for drivers.
What is the risk of an unmaintained EV charging station?
EV charging stations require regular maintenance to be operational. Charging station maintenance includes regular inspections of the charging station, its components, and any necessary repairs.
Reliability Issues
Unmaintained EV charging stations can be unreliable, which leads to unnecessary delays in EV charging or even a loss of productivity if the driver cannot charge their vehicle. Regular inspections and repairs can prevent problems before they become more severe and expensive.
Routine maintenance will save money in the long run, keep your charging station operational, and set consistent expectations for your customers.
ROI Issues
EV charging stations are a significant investment, and routine maintenance can help protect that investment by extending the lifespan of the equipment. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and component replacement can help prevent wear and tear and prolong the life of the charging station, enabling you to maximize your financial, time, and labor investment.
How do you properly maintain an EV charging station?
EV charging station maintenance is an integral part of ensuring the reliability of electric vehicles. It is essential to regularly inspect and maintain EV charging stations to ensure they are in safe working condition.
Here are some of the critical things to consider regarding EV charging station maintenance:
1. Inspect and clean the charging station
EV charging station cleaning includes cleaning filters and the surrounding area of any debris or dirt accumulated.
2. Perform regular safety checks
Visual safety checks include checking the connections, inspecting the cables, and ensuring that all safety features function properly.
3. Check the charging station’s power supply
A thorough power supply inspection verifies the charging station’s voltage, current, and power ratings.
4. Check the charging station’s wiring
Inspecting the charging station’s wiring for any damage or corrosion ensures that everything is securely fastened and running efficiently.
5. Check the charging station’s charging ports
This includes ensuring the ports are clean, free of debris, excessive wear, and broken components.
6. Test the charging station
This includes testing the station’s charging capabilities and ensuring it functions properly.
Regular maintenance of EV charging stations is essential to ensure their safety and reliability. By adhering to the steps outlined above, EV charging station owners can ensure their charging station is in safe working condition.
EV charging station maintenance solutions from a partner you can trust
As EVs become more popular, properly maintained EV charging stations are becoming increasingly essential. The revolution of electric vehicles is in full swing, and it is vital to ensure the safety and reliability of these charging stations by providing consistent maintenance.
Our experienced team of EV experts is trained to ensure a safer, more reliable charging experience for your organization and customers. Book a meeting with Amy Soderquist – Director of Sales – EV Operations today to learn more about our EV charging station maintenance solutions.