The Do's and Don'ts of EV Charger Maintenance

In the realm of contemporary transportation, Electric Vehicles (EVs) stand as linchpins, vital for advancing the paradigm shift toward sustainable mobility. At the heart of this shift lies the charging stations, an indispensable component of the EV ecosystem. However, these charging stations’ seamless functioning and durability depend heavily on diligent maintenance practices. In our latest article, we will delve into and explore the essential do’s and don’ts that can either fortify or compromise the performance of EV chargers and how Gemtek can help.

The Do’s:

1. 1. 1. Regular inspection and cleaning
         Do: Establish a rigorous schedule for routine inspections to identify any visible wear, tear, or damage.
         Do: Prioritise cleanliness by implementing regular cleaning procedures to safeguard against the accumulation of dust, debris, and other environmental contaminants that could compromise the charging station’s functionality.

1. 1. 2. Firmware and software updates
         Do: Foster a proactive approach to installing firmware and software updates to ensure compatibility with the latest EV models and to guarantee optimal performance. As one of our many services, Gemtek offers maintenance and monitoring services, including tracking asset activity and performance, and diagnosing network and charger issues, simplifying the process.
         Do: Regularly check for manufacturer updates and security patches, forming a robust defense against potential vulnerabilities and ensuring the charger’s longevity.

1. 1. 3. Temperature control
         Do: Strategically install charging stations in well-ventilated areas to prevent overheating and maintain optimal charging efficiency. Gemtek provides a site assessment service, helping you ensure that your charger is in a temperature-efficient location.
         Do: Implement a comprehensive temperature monitoring system to regulate and control the charging station’s temperature, ensuring your charging station works efficiently regardless of weather.

1. 1. 4. Power quality and stability
         Do: Invest in a high-quality power supply to maintain stable and reliable charging; IPD offers several options, such as the Delta UPS range.
         Do: Install surge protection devices to shield the charging station from power fluctuations and lightning strikes, fortifying its resilience against external factors.

1. 1. 5. Physical protection and user accessibility
         Do: Ensure your charging station is protected from vehicle traffic with protective bollards or tyre stops.
         Do: Ensure that any safety signage is clearly visible and presented at a height that all users can read.
         Do: Consider the needs of all user types, including those with accessibility issues. Make thoughtful considerations to ensure that all user types can access the charging station safely and independently if required.

1. 1. 6. User education
         Do: Equip yourself with knowledge by diving into educational materials on proper connection and disconnection procedures or by booking a consultation with one of Gemtek’s expert electricians.
         Do: Spread the word to fellow EV users – a little awareness goes a long way in fostering a culture of shared responsibility

1. 1. 7. Emergency response plan
         Do: Be prepared with an emergency response plan, clearly outlining the steps to take in case of malfunctions or power outages.
         Do: Practice emergency drills to ensure everyone involved knows the drill, reducing downtime and enhancing overall safety.

The Don’ts:

1. 1. 1. Ignoring warning signs
         Don’t: Disregard any warning signs or error messages the charging station displays.
         Don’t: Delay addressing issues, as they may escalate and lead to more significant problems, potentially causing extended downtime.

1. 1. 2. Neglecting grounding
         Don’t: Overlook the importance of proper grounding, as it is crucial for preventing electrical hazards.
         Don’t: Neglect routine checks on the grounding system, ensuring the continuous maintenance of electrical safety standards.

1. 1. 3. Using improper cables and connectors
         Don’t: Compromise on the quality of cables and connectors, as substandard or incompatible components can jeopardise safety and damage the charging station.
         Don’t: Allow users to connect vehicles with damaged charging cables, emphasising the necessity of regular inspections for potential hazards.

1. 1. 4. Excessive load on the charging station
         Don’t: Overload the charging station by connecting more vehicles than its capacity allows.
         Don’t: Ignore the charging station’s maximum capacity, as exceeding it can lead to malfunctions, reduce efficiency, and potentially damage the equipment.

1. 1. 5. Exposing to extreme weather conditions
         Don’t: Install charging stations in locations exposed to extreme weather conditions without adequate protection.
         Don’t: Neglect the implementation of weatherproofing measures, safeguarding the charging station from the adverse effects of rain, snow, or excessive sunlight.

1. 1. 6. Lack of cybersecurity measures
         Don’t: Underestimate the importance of robust security measures, leaving the charging station vulnerable to hacking or unauthorised access.
         Don’t: Use default passwords or neglect to update login credentials regularly, ensuring the protection of sensitive data and the prevention of potential security breaches.As the global shift towards electric transportation gains momentum, the reliability and efficiency of electric vehicle charging stations become pivotal. The conscientious adhering to the outlined do’s and avoiding the associated don’ts will undoubtedly contribute to a reliable and efficient electric vehicle charging station. At Gemtek, we want to help you embark on this journey by helping our customers nurture a well-maintained charging station.

For additional information, please visit the Addelec website or contact our customer service team on 1300 795 262.