7 Tasks Facility Maintenance Companies Should Do to Maintain an EV Charging Station
There’s a lot of talk and movement toward electronic vehicles (EVs) as a more sustainable option than gas-powered engines. With no tailpipe to spew out environmentally unfriendly emissions, EVs reduce our carbon footprint. They also get good mileage, with some able to go 250-plus miles on a single charge, a figure that technology advancements are expected to increase. EVs are more energy efficient, with energy loses of only between 15% and 20%; gasoline engines “waste” between 64% to 75% of the energy they generate, which is dissipated as heat or lost due to friction in the engine. These and many other benefits are why Servicon is converting its fleet to hybrid and then electric.
As more companies adopt or consider adopting electric vehicles, they will need to be aware of what is involved in maintaining EV charging stations to keep them operating efficiently. With this in mind, below are seven EV charging station maintenance points that top commercial cleaning and facility maintenance companies are charged with performing.
The Top 7
- Frequency. “How often an electric vehicle charger requires maintenance depends on use,” says Chris McKee, Servicon vice president of facility solutions. “But to keep it running right and prevent unexpected downtime and expensive repairs, stations should be checked quarterly at a minimum. Preventative maintenance can save thousands of dollars by keeping the station in top shape and sighting potential issues before they become huge, expensive problems.” This requires developing an ongoing maintenance schedule and assigning an inside point person who can be contacted and kept aware of potential issues.
- Cleaning. Dirt, dust, and other soils can cause EV charging stations to underperform, malfunction, and even break down. To prevent a buildup of debris, the station’s exterior and cables should be wiped down regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals that might cause damage. The connector should be examined, and compressed air should be used to blow out debris.
- Power. A power station isn’t a power station without the energy required to power vehicles. Ensuring the power supply is being distributed correctly includes checking the unit’s cable and electrical connections, fuses, and circuit breakers. If an issue is found, the station should be closed until a certified electrician can fix it.
- Cables and connectors. These components are critical to a charging station’s safe and efficient operation. They should be inspected regularly for wear and tear and replaced when any deterioration is noticed. Software. Most charging stations use software to ensure consistent energy usage and, often, to collect usage data. The software must be monitored and updated when security patches, bug fixes, and new features aiming to improve the station’s performance and reliability become available.
- Defective parts. Even with scheduled maintenance, parts can wear out or become damaged, which can result in injuries to drivers or damage to vehicles. For this reason, it is essential to replace any defective part as soon as possible. Your commercial cleaning and facility maintenance services provider should look for changes to the station’s performance, such as slower charging, unexplained changes in energy use, or frequent software data errors.
- Weatherproofing. Outdoor EV charging stations are often exposed to harsh elements, including sun, rain, wind, and ice. The best solution is to provide a cover for the stations, but gaps in the units should be sealed, and cables and connectors should be protected from moisture.
- Partnering with a professional. Regular maintenance is essential to keeping a charging station in good condition and operating efficiently. Some commercial cleaning companies also offer facility maintenance services. The best companies have a team well-versed in EV station maintenance that can provide regular station inspections, identify issues before they become more serious, and make repairs and replacements when needed. They also have certified tradespeople on staff to ensure accountability and eliminate the hassles and headaches of finding, hiring, and overseeing separate third-party vendors.
Commercial Cleaning Companies With Facility Maintenance Services That Maintain EV Charging
Are you seeking a quality cleaning and facility maintenance provider with experience with charging stations? Click here to discover how Servicon is transitioning and caring for its fleet of EV vehicles, then contact us for more information on how Servicon’s trained and certified team will keep your EV station(s) up and running.
Commercial Cleaning Services Near Me That Offer EV Charging Station Services
Are you seeking a quality cleaning and facility maintenance provider with experience with charging stations? Click here to discover how Servicon is transitioning and caring for its fleet of EV vehicles, then contact us for more information on how Servicon’s trained and certified team will keep your EV station(s) up and running.
