By Elbert Walters III, Executive Director of Powering Chicago
October 16, 2024
Elbert Walters III
Properly maintaining your EVSE Charging Infrastructure is an important component of ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of your EVSE Charging station. While regulatory requirements vary by state, leading with a preventative approach protects your facility from costly repairs, minimizes downtime, and extends the lifespan of the equipment, maximizing the overall benefit of your investment.
General system maintenance should include the following:
- Inspections and cleaning: A visual inspection should be performed monthly to check for any visible issues or malfunctioning parts. It is equally important to clean any dust or debris on or in the unit.
- Cable and connector inspections: Examine the cables and connectors monthly for signs of dirt or corrosion.
- Functional testing and electrical system check: Conduct quarterly and basic electrical system checks to identify any immediate issues with connections or components.
- Calibration and battery health check: To maintain operational efficiency, you should calibrate the EVSE and check the battery health, if the unit has one, annually.
- Software updates and safety checks: Update the software as needed and perform annual safety inspections to ensure the equipment is up-to-date and performing properly.
- Proper storage of charging cables: Charging cables should be properly stored to prevent damage and ensure they remain functional, safe, and efficient.
The Dangers of Not Keeping Up with Maintenance
Not keeping up with the maintenance of your EVSE Charging Infrastructure increases the potential for major safety issues and equipment malfunction, such as:
- Fire hazards: Overheating components, malfunctioning cables or charging units, and debris and dust build-up can all increase the risk of fire hazards.
- Electrical shock: Damaged or exposed wiring and faulty connectors can expose users to electrical shock.
- Lack of efficiency: Failure to follow proper maintenance protocols leads to longer charging times and higher energy costs.
- Shortens the lifespan: A lack of maintenance can lead to premature wear of components, straining the system and decreasing its lifespan.
- Tripping hazards: Make sure that cables and components are properly stored across walkways to prevent users from being injured.
The Importance of Hiring Qualified Electrical Contractors
Choosing a qualified, licensed electrical contractor to perform maintenance is important to guarantee your equipment’s safety, efficiency, and longevity. The benefits include:
- Enhanced project safety: Qualified electrical contractors have the proper training to safely handle the maintenance of EVSE Charging infrastructure, reducing the overall risk of accidents like electrical shocks or fires.
- Compliance: Electrical contractors know local and national electrical codes and standards. Proper installation and maintenance by a licensed professional ensure that the EVSE complies with these regulations.
- System reliability: A licensed contractor can properly diagnose and fix issues, ensuring that the EVSE operates efficiently and reliably. This prevents frequent breakdowns and prolongs the lifespan of the charging infrastructure.
- Warranty and insurance claims: Many manufacturers require that licensed professionals perform installation and maintenance to keep warranties valid. Similarly, insurance policies most often cover damages and repairs if qualified, licensed electricians complete the installation and maintenance.
How to Choose a Qualified Electrical Contractor
Determining whether an electrical contractor is qualified can be challenging. Here are five key considerations to guide you in making a well-informed choice:
- Verify credentials: Ensure you verify the electrical contractor holds the proper credentials to install EVSE. Requirements vary by state. Be sure to research which apply. Facility managers are encouraged to seek out qualified electrical contractors through reputable sources such as the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) search tool and Powering Chicago’s find a contractor tool for those in the Chicagoland area.
- Consider electrical permit requirements: Confirm that your contractor has the proper equipment installation permits.
- Take a holistic approach: Consider working with a single service provider to streamline your EVSE power transition and minimize coordination efforts.
- Request details and references: Ask for information about prior EVSE installation jobs, check references, and verify insurance coverage, warranties on work and equipment, and license status.
- Consider the benefits of working with signatory contractors: Signatory contractors bring the advantage of extensive electrical construction experience and safety training, ensuring reliable and secure installations.
Maintaining your EVSE Charging Infrastructure is essential for ensuring safety and maximizing efficiency. Investing in scheduled maintenance and hiring qualified contractors prevent costly repairs and ensure compliance with safety standards. By prioritizing upkeep and professional service, you protect your investment and contribute to a reliable EV ecosystem.
Powering Chicago’s library of EV resources is available with e-books and fact sheets to download as you explore considerations surrounding EVSE installation.
