Are you considering installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in your home? If so, you need to think about more than the upfront cost of installing an EV charger. You should take into consideration the money and effort that goes into maintaining an EV charging station. The maintenance needed for your EV charger varies depending on the charger’s location and frequency of use. The charging station’s maintenance will also depend on what type of charger it is. This article will cover some common facts to know about EV charger maintenance as well as important information that could be applicable to you. You can read our article about specific charging station error codes here.
General Charger Maintenance
General maintenance for charging stations includes storing charging cables securely, checking parts periodically, and keeping the equipment clean. Chargers may need repairs every now and then as well. Industry experts advise budgeting around $0-$200 a year for upkeep and maintenance. Many EV charger networks provide a package covering general maintenance for an extra yearly charge and most come with warranties.
Now that we’ve covered general EV charger maintenance, we can discuss the differences in charging station maintenance for different types of EV charging stations.
Level 1: Non-Networked Chargers
Level 1 EV chargers are usually used for personal use and will typically be found in private dwellings. Generally, these chargers require little maintenance. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends regularly changing the commercial-grade electric outlet into which the device is fitted. This usually costs around $100.
Level 2: Non-Networked Chargers
Level 2 EV chargers can be found in both private dwellings and public charging stations. If they are located at public stations and used consistently, they will need additional care. External factors such as weather and climate can affect the charger’s condition and need for maintenance, especially if it’s not covered. You should regularly clean these charging units with a moist cloth and inspect parts for wear and tear.
Level 3 Chargers
Level 3 chargers such as superchargers and DCFC stations will require more maintenance and repair overtime because they are usually used commercially. The intricacy and complexity of these devices cause them to have much more upkeep compared to Level 1 and Level 2 chargers. Superchargers and DCFC stations require filters, cooling systems, and other complex hardware that need routine care. It’s recommended that owners of Level 3 charging stations create a service schedule with manufacturers before installation.
Networked Chargers
Networked charging stations are part of an infrastructure system of linked chargers. These units have additional electrical features such as touchscreens, buttons, and credit card processing software. These units may require other maintenance and repair services over time. An electrician who is competent with EV charger maintenance can resolve most networked EV charging stations issues. These chargers rely on software and cloud-based systems to operate properly. It is important to keep these connected to Wi-Fi as many issues can be resolved through software updates.
Tesla Charging Station Maintenance
Tesla owns and operates the largest global, fast charging network in the world with their 35,000+ Superchargers. Superchargers can charge your EV even while you’re away from home since they are located on major routes near convenient amenities. Superchargers are ideal for long distance travel and are designed to charge your Tesla quickly and efficiently. So, what we mentioned before regarding maintenance for Superchargers and networked charging stations can be applied to Tesla Superchargers. Even though Superchargers are Tesla’s specialty, they still offer home charging options as well. We do have pointers on how to maintain those charging options as well.
Older Tesla chargers communicate via flashes of red light, while newer ones show codes through the app. It’s important to pay attention to the number of flashes or codes since it can tell you about the problem your device is facing. You can learn more about this in your charger’s installation manual.
If your Tesla home wall charger is charging slowly, you should be aware that the charging speed depends on factors such as the maximum charge speed or the maximum output of your circuit breaker.
If you are experiencing a serious issue with your charger, you should contact a Tesla certified professional. Specialists have the necessary expertise to handle maintenance and repairs. They can determine what needs to be done with your charger, so you can use it safely, and for as long as possible.
Routine Care Checklist for Your EV Charger
Keeping your charger operating doesn’t require much effort. A few simple habits that don’t take long can help you prevent problems in the future.
- Check the cable for wear, cracks or fraying
- Keep the connector clean and off the ground
- Check the charger app for updates
- Confirm it is connected to Wi-Fi if it’s a smart charger
- After outages check the breaker and restart if needed
Contact Santella Electric for Your EV Charging Needs!
By now you understand what maintenance can look like for your EV charging station. It’s really a range depending on a variety of factors. But if you are having an issue with your EV charging station and you’re not sure how to resolve it, please reach out to a professional. You don’t have to look any further than Santella Electric! We are here to take care of your electric needs. No matter the issue, we can provide you with a solution. Please don’t hesitate to reach out today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should an EV charging station be maintained?
They don’t require a lot of maintenance, but it is important to check it over every couple months to make sure it is functioning properly.
What parts of an EV charger require regular maintenance?
Keep an eye on the cable, connector and mounting hardware. These usually experience the most wear from consistent use.
Can lack of maintenance cause EV charger failures?
Yes, damaged cables or loose connections can cause error code or even safety shutoffs.
4. Does weather exposure increase maintenance needs?
Yes, as this can increase the wear on the unit in general. Ensure cables and connectors don’t show any wear.
When should professional EV charger servicing be scheduled?
Professional servicing is recommended if the charger consistently shows errors after being restarted, if breakers are tripping or if it charges inconsistently.
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