With the rise in acceptance of electric vehicles (EVs), the demand for public charging stations has reached its zenith. With more EVs on the way, drivers should use their best charging etiquette for a smooth and sufficient experience for all. Whether you are a new EV owner or a seasoned driver, some good practices will help avoid frustration at the public charging stations and promote a better courtesies-filled EV community.
Here are the major guidelines everyone should respect and follow when charging in public stations.
1. Charge Only When It Is Absolutely Necessary
Public charging stations available under the several charging networks help the EV drivers with their operational range while on the move. However, public charging stations are not meant to substitute home charging when available. If the battery is charged just enough to reach home or the next point of charging, it would be considerate to leave the slot vacant for someone who genuinely needs it.
Many EV drivers use public chargers for their daily commute, hence considering accessibility makes a big difference. If your car is plugged in while it does not need an immediate charge, it is better to free the charger for others.
2. Do Not Let Your Car Stay After Charging
Keeping one’s electric vehicle plugged in after charging is one of the most annoying things an EV driver can do. Most charging networks send alerts shortly before the session ends, so there is really no excuse to keep a car standing in a space longer than necessary.
Best Advice:
- Move your vehicles right after charging.
- Put a reminder on your phone.
- Be considerate at fast chargers, as they are meant to have a quick turnover.
3. Observe The Public Charging Etiquette
Charging stations have different sets of rules, depending on their location, ownership, or network. Some charging stations could limit the time for charging, while some could even prohibit non-customers’ access.
Always respect posted rules and any stipulations that apply. If those rules are ignored, fines or penalties may be imposed, and such actions would spoil the experience for other users.
Unplugging another EV without consent is one of the most horrible offences against charging etiquette. Unless you know the driver and have gotten permission, do not presume it is okay to unplug their car.
4. Be Courteous and Communicate with Other EV Drivers
EV charging spots are rare commodities, and you may come across some other drivers waiting for a station. A simple act of communication in these moments of need can go a long way!
If someone is waiting for you to finish charging, you may want to let them know about how much longer you’ll be charging. Of course, if you’re running out of time and absolutely have to charge now, you may want to ask politely whether someone can let you charge ahead.
You may want to leave a note with the estimated charging time and/or your phone number so that someone can contact you if need be.
5. Check Out Charging Capacity in Advance
Aside from the basic rules of good etiquette to practice in EV charging, one of these includes planning charging in advance. Knowing the route, checking the availability of stations, and having a backup plan will all avoid much stressful worry.
Tips on planning ahead include:
- Map out charging stations along your route.
- Charge during off-peak hours to avoid congestion.
- Keep a charging cable and adapter in your car for unexpected situations.
Indeed, being proactive reduces the chances of finding yourself sitting long waits and the minor inconvenience of deliberating for days.
Why EV Charging Etiquette Matters
Simply put, it is good charging manners extended by everyone for equal opportunity access to the public charger, less waiting time, and a healthy community of EV drivers. Courtesy towards charging stations will perhaps be paramount as the number of electric vehicle drivers increases.
Yes, companies and municipalities are investing in increased charging infrastructure. But it is going to take some time before there are enough chargers to satisfy the demand all over. Following the above-mentioned best practices will really help enhance everyone’s experiences while driving EVs-efficiently and enjoyably.
Wherever you might find your need, be it home or business installation of EV charging solution, Apex charger brings a complete line of high-end chargers for their convenience in using these chargers and programs featured on their website show how the company can help keep you powered on-the-go.
Conclusion
Usage of the public EV chargers will allow drivers to avail of their opportunities, injecting the power they need whenever. So by this etiquette, one contributes well in making the EV charging experience more enjoyable and same time considerate.
Just a little courtesy will go a long way whether at the rest stop on the highway, the shopping center, or the workplace charging station. The more the community grows, the better way to smoothen the transition in making public chargers more efficient is by being conscious of how we all use them.
Visit ApexCharger for more EV charging solutions and tips on how they contribute to the future of sustainable transportation.