With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for EV charging infrastructure has grown significantly. While more and more businesses are seeing the benefits of installing an EV charge point for their customer’s car, there’s nothing like the convenience of home chargers.
However, like any other technology, EV drivers can sometimes encounter issues with their electric car charging systems that prevent them from functioning properly.
In this article, we will explore seven common reasons for an EV charger not working as expected, and suggest possible solutions to rectify the problems you might be experiencing in the charging process.
1. Wrong Power Supply
One of the most common reasons for an EV charger malfunction is an incorrect power supply to the charging station.
EV chargers require a specific voltage and amperage to operate efficiently. If the power supply is inadequate or incompatible, the charger may fail to function properly or not work at all.
To resolve this issue, it is essential to ensure that the power supply meets the specifications required by the charger.
Consulting with a certified electrician like Sun Electrical can help identify and rectify any power supply-related problems and ensure the EV installation of your charging point meets your electric cars’ needs.
2. Faulty EV Charging Station
Sometimes, the issue lies with the EV charging station itself. Components within the station can fail due to wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or environmental factors. A faulty EV charge point may exhibit issues such as little or no power output, inconsistent charging, or intermittent connectivity.
In such cases, contacting the charger manufacturer or a professional electrician experienced in EV charging systems can help diagnose and repair the faulty components.
Check out our Must-Read FAQs about EV Charger Installations to read more about some considerations you should make before installing a potentially faulty charging system.
3. Wrong Charger Type (Type 1, 2, or 3)
EV chargers come in different types, namely Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3, depending on the connector and communication protocols used. Using the wrong connector or charger type for your specific electric vehicle can prevent the charger from dispensing power correctly.
It is crucial to match the charger type with the EV’s charging port to ensure compatibility and that it will be functioning correctly.
Referencing the electric vehicle’s manual or consulting with the charger or electric car manufacturer can help identify and address any compatibility issues.
Level 2 is likely most suited to regular residential use, and you should do some research on what the best level 2 chargers available on the market are.
4. Poor Internet Connectivity
Many smart charging stations are equipped with features that rely on a stable internet connection to charge your electric car’s battery. If the charger’s internet connectivity is poor or disrupted, it can lead to issues such as slow charging speeds, charging interruptions, or even a complete failure to charge.
Verifying the internet connection and troubleshooting network-related problems, such as router placement, signal strength, or firewall settings, can help restore proper functionality to the charger.
5. Power Surging
Power surges, which are sudden increases in electrical voltage, can cause damage to various electrical devices, including EV chargers and car batteries.
Surges can result from lightning strikes, faulty wiring, or utility grid fluctuations. When an EV charger is exposed to power surges, it may become non-functional or display erratic behaviour.
Installing whole home surge protectors or voltage stabilizers can help safeguard the charger from power surges and prevent potential damage.
Sun Electrical technicians are complete home surge protection experts. We’ve addressed countless power surge problems in the Calgary area and fully understand the systems that can prevent damage resulting from power surges.
6. Software Updates
Like any other smart device, EV chargers often require regular software updates to improve performance, enhance compatibility, and fix bugs or vulnerabilities.
Neglecting to update the charger’s software can lead to operational issues or incompatibility with newer EV models.
Checking for firmware updates on the charger manufacturer’s website or using a dedicated smartphone app can ensure that the charger remains up to date and functions optimally.
7. Loose Connectivity
Another common issue with EV chargers is loose connectivity between the charging plug and the EV’s charging port.
Over time, repeated plugging and unplugging or physical stress can cause the charging cable to become loose or the charging port contacts to wear out. This can result in intermittent charging or a complete failure to charge.
Inspecting the cable connections and charging port for any signs of wear or damage and ensuring a secure connection can help overcome this issue. If your charging connector is fully plugged in and you’re seeing the battery stop charging, or never begin charging at all, your home charger might need to be repaired or replaced.
Sun Electrical is Your Local EV Charger Experts
While EV chargers are generally reliable, encountering issues that prevent them from working properly can be frustrating.
By understanding and addressing common problems such as wrong power supply, faulty charging stations, incompatible charger types, poor internet connectivity, power surges, software updates, and loose connectivity, users can take appropriate measures to rectify these issues and ensure a smooth, hassle-free and immediate charging experience for their electric vehicles.
Our friendly electricians will help you with experience, reliable EV charger installation service and maintenance, including hardwiring, outlet installation, upgrading your current electrical system to accommodate the EV charger requirements, and answering any questions you have.
Get it touch for a detailed quote today!