If you have invested in a home EV charger, you should ensure it works efficiently and effectively throughout its entire lifespan, usually around 15 years. The following tips could help.
1. Keep It Clean
Your EV charger must remain clean at all times. Accumulated dust or debris can trap moisture, often leading to short circuits, electric shocks, and corrosion. It can also impede the efficient flow of electricity and pose a fire hazard.
To clean your EV charger, you’ll need a few essentials. The first is a cleaning solution. Get the cleaning solution recommended by your EV charging station manufacturer. Getting the wrong type can cause serious damage and may even void your warranty.
Second, you need a microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloths are soft, absorbent, and won’t scratch the charger’s surface. Third, you’ll need clean, cold water to rinse the long insulated cord. However, water must not touch the electrical contacts or enter the cable itself.
Start cleaning by turning off and unplugging the charger to avoid any electrical hazards. Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust or debris from the connector. The unit is waterproof, but keeping it clean without using a wet cloth is better.
Next, apply the recommended cleaning solution on the microfiber cloth and gently wipe down the charge’s surface and cords. If there’s too much dirt or grime on the cord, rinse it with water using a clean microfiber cloth. Do not spray the cleaning solution or water on any charger part. Only wipe it down until it is clean. When done, use a separate dry microfiber cloth to dry the charger and cords thoroughly. Wait a few hours before using it.
2. Regularly Inspect the Charger and Its Charging Cable
Periodically inspect your home EV charger for signs of wear or loose connections. Look for damages such as bent pins, frayed wires, exposed connectors, and corrosion. Check for cuts, kinks, or exposed wires on the charging cable. If there are any issues, repair or replace worn parts promptly to prevent safety hazards.
Additionally, you can test your charger for proper functionality. Connect your charging cord to a different charging station to see if there’s a difference in performance. Also, connect another compatible EV to your charging station to see if there’s an issue specific to your vehicle.
Monitor the charging process, specifically the time before charging begins and the overall charging time. Consider calling for professional EV charger service if you notice any inconsistencies or extended delays.
3. Protect It From Elements
Most EV car chargers are weatherproof and safe to use in the rain or snow. Still, it is best practice to build a weatherproof enclosure with adequate ventilation to protect it from harsh elements. Extreme heat from the sun can lead to slower charging rates and battery degradation.
Rainwater can sneak inside the connector, interrupting the flow of current. Be sure to install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), which immediately cut power when water comes in contact with live electricity.
4. Update Firmware
Just as phones and computers, electric cars, and their chargers receive regular updates that offer a wealth of improvements in their functionality, these updates can address security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and add new advanced features.
Therefore, ensure your charging station is connected to your Wi-Fi network to receive updates automatically. Moreover, regularly check your manufacturer’s website and install firmware updates that need your authorization to complete the process.
5. Protect Your Charging Station From Theft and Vandalism
Criminals may try to steal your charging cable or destroy the charging station while attempting to access valuable components. To mitigate this risk, install your EV equipment in a secure garage and invest in security cameras, motion sensors, and dashcams. When the charging cable is not in use, it should be locked. In addition, ensure that your insurance policy covers vandalism and theft of EV charging equipment for peace of mind.
Some people with outdoor-mounted EV chargers park their cars on top of the charging cable overnight to protect them. This is ill-advised. The vehicle’s heavy weight can cause the cable to crack, kink, or break.
6. Check for Overheating
Monitor the temperature of your home EV charger while it is in use. EV chargers convert alternating current (AC) from your electrical grid into direct current (DC) that your vehicle’s battery can store. This process typically generates heat, but it shouldn’t be to the extent that it becomes a safety hazard.
Stop charging and disconnect the charger immediately if you notice signs of overheating, such as a burning smell, visible melting or discoloration, or unusual noises. Consult a licensed electrician for inspection and possible repairs. There could be a mismatch in voltage and current requirements between your car and charger, the condition of your vehicle’s battery may become compromised, or the charger’s internal components may be defective.
7. Monitor Energy Consumption
Consider using a meter to monitor your energy usage while charging your EV. This is important to identify irregularities, inefficiencies, or potential issues such as excessive standby power consumption or faulty components.
If you’re considering upgrading your EV charger, look for smart chargers. These devices allow you to monitor and manage your EV charging process via phone and can even optimize charging speeds to avoid drawing excess energy from your home’s electric grid.
8. Schedule Professional Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance, schedule professional maintenance with a qualified electrician or EV charger service provider at least twice a year. A professional will diagnose thoroughly, identify underlying issues, fix potential problems, and ensure safety features work correctly. They may also recommend necessary upgrades or adjustments to improve your charger’s efficiency and longevity. Electrical maintenance plans make it easy not to forget annual electrical inspections and tune-ups.
9. Address Issues Promptly
When you encounter problems or abnormalities while using your charger, turn it off, unplug it, and immediately call for professional repairs. Using a defective charger will deteriorate it further, harm your car, and put your house at risk of electrical hazards.
10. Always Adhere to the Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Handle your home EV charger explicitly as per the manufacturer’s user’s manual. This includes charging your car, troubleshooting tips, and maintenance schedules. These guidelines will ensure your charger remains in optimal condition and operates safely and efficiently.
11. Prepare for Emergencies
Have an emergency plan for when your charger malfunctions or unexpected power outages occur. Keep a backup portable charger handy, and never let your car battery fully drain out. Always maintain enough charge to reach the nearest charging station if needed. Investing in a portable or standby generator is also an option.
Contact Potts Electric for More Information
If you live in Ellisville, MO, call Potts Electric today for EV charger inspection, maintenance, and repairs. Our licensed, experienced, and insured experts ensure your charger is safe, effective, and efficient. You can also contact us for electrical services like smart home automation, surge protection, aluminum wiring, and generator installation. In addition to general household electrical services, we provide services for new construction and commercial projects. When you need help with EV charger maintenance, repairs, and installation, Potts Electric is your local full-stop electrical company.
