Yes, EV chargers do require servicing from time to time, just like any other electrical equipment. Routine maintenance may include cleaning, inspection of cables and connectors, and replacement of worn or damaged parts.
In addition, software updates may be required to ensure the charger functions properly and efficiently. If your EV charger is connected to a Wi-Fi or GSM network, firmware updates can be carried out via the mobile app or be updated automatically via the charger’s manufacturer.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance and to have a qualified electrician perform any necessary repairs or upgrades.
Visual indicators your EV charger needs servicing.
- Exposed electrical wires around the plug or charger
- Broken or split cable
- The cable is distorted in any way
- The charger is loose on the wall, stand or concrete base
- Damaged charger or plug
- Lights or displays indicating a fault
- Test date displayed on the charger is out of date
If any of these are found, you should not use the charger and contact an EV charger service technician and arrange a service.
If it’s a public charger, contact the EV Charger network management company.
Service agreements
If you own a fleet or a public EV charger, you should have a scheduled maintenance agreement with a service company specialising in EV chargers. This will ensure your charger’s uptime, keeping your vehicles charged and continuing to collect revenue.
If you own a public EV charger, Many EV charger network management companies require you to have a maintenance agreement before they place the charger on their network. This is because they want to ensure a positive user experience with the chargers on their network.
If your public EV charger experiences downtime, this will negatively impact its score on Plug Share and other EV charger apps and may cause it to be removed from the EV Charger network management platform.
What a service agreement should include
- Inspect chargers for any damage
- Operational test
- Safety inspection and test
- Inspection tag applied to the charger
- Compliance certificate is issued
- Any faults are repaired where necessary
- EV charger, plug terminals, and cable are cleaned
- Call out timeframes
- Agreement details Start date
- Duration
- Rates – Per charger, repairs, after-hours callout
- Contact details
EV Chargers
Find an EV charger service technician here
FAQs
How frequently a charging station needs maintenance and the cost for this varies depending on the type of chargers used. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of chargers and recommended upkeep details:
Level 2 EV Chargers
Level 2 EV chargers are commonly used in public charging stations and private dwellings. These often have more frequent component issues because of their complexity and size. This means they will require more frequent maintenance, regular cleaning and inspection for wear and tear.
Level 3 EV Chargers
In the long run, DC fast charger stations and superchargers will likely need extra repairs and maintenance. This is because they contain more complex hardware than the Level 2 systems. It’s recommended to set up routine scheduled maintenance as per the manufacturer’s requirements to keep these chargers running at optimal capacity and limit downtime.
Networked Chargers
Networked charging stations contain multiple linked chargers. Because these units contain extra electrical components, it’s likely that maintenance will be needed more regularly.
It’s a good idea to regularly inspect your EV charger stations. Here’s what you need to look out for:
- Low voltage. Your charger likely needs repair if the charger output is below the correlating average of the charger level. For example, level 2 at 240V supplies 6.2 – 7.6kW and level 3 supplies between 50 – 350kW.
- Visible damage. Weather and vandalism can lead to external charger damage, so you should regularly inspect and clean parts to check for problems.
- Slow charging. Level 2 chargers take between, 4 -10 hours and level 3, 30 mins – 1.5 hours. If you find charging times are slowing down, your unit may need repairs.
- Manufacturers maintenance recommendations. Always be proactive and schedule repairs and maintenance according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If your EV charger stops working, the first step is to contact a specialised EV charger licensed electrician to diagnose and repair the problem. Attempting to repair the charger on your own can be dangerous and may void any warranty or insurance coverage. Contact our experts right away if you experience any issues with your EV charger.