What to Do Before Charging with an Electric Vehicle Charging Pile

In the era of booming development of electric vehicles, the use of electric vehicle charging piles has become an essential part of daily life for electric vehicle owners. However, before charging, there are many important steps and precautions that need to be taken seriously to ensure the safety and smooth progress of the charging process.

I. Pre – charging Checks

1. Routine Inspection of the Surrounding Environment

Before using an electric vehicle charging pile, the first and foremost task is to conduct a routine inspection of the surrounding area. This is mainly to check for the presence of any flammable or explosive objects. Flammable substances such as gasoline, diesel, or combustible gases can pose a huge threat during the charging process. Even a small spark generated during the connection or disconnection of the charging equipment may ignite these substances, leading to a fire or explosion. Na primjer, in a parking lot with a charging station, if there are gasoline – powered vehicles parked nearby with fuel leaks, it creates a highly dangerous situation. A tiny spark from the charging operation could potentially trigger a large – scale fire, endangering the safety of people and property in the vicinity. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the charging area is free from any such hazards. If any flammable or explosive materials are detected, move the vehicle to a safer location or remove the hazardous substances before proceeding with charging.

2. Inspection of the Charging Pile

The next step is to check the condition of the charging pile itself. First, carefully observe the display screen of the charging pile. If the screen is functioning properly, closely look for any error messages or fault indicators. Modern charging piles are equipped with advanced monitoring systems that can detect various malfunctions. These malfunctions can range from power supply issues, such as voltage instability or power outages, to communication problems between the charging pile and the vehicle or the central management system, and even internal component failures. Once a fault occurs, it is usually clearly displayed on the screen. Na primjer, if the charging pile’s power module fails, the screen may show an error code related to power supply, like “Power Module Error: 001”. In such cases, it is not advisable to use the faulty charging pile. Instead, immediately contact the relevant maintenance personnel to repair the problem. Even if the screen appears normal, it is still a good practice to visually inspect the exterior of the charging pile for any signs of damage, such as cracks, loose parts, or exposed wires. A cracked housing may expose the internal electrical components to the outside environment, increasing the risk of short – circuits and electric shock.

3. Compatibility Check between the Charging Gun and the Vehicle

Determining whether the charging gun is compatible with the vehicle is another crucial aspect. For older – generation vehicles that follow the old national standard, there is generally less concern as the new national standard is designed to be backward – compatible. In most cases, these vehicles can be charged using new – standard charging guns without issues. However, for new – generation vehicles that adhere to the new national standard, which is now the majority, special attention should be paid to the charging gun. New – standard charging guns are often equipped with electronic locks. When checking compatibility, not only should the physical connection between the gun and the vehicle’s charging port be verified, but also the proper functioning of the electronic lock mechanism. Insert the charging gun into the vehicle’s charging port and check if the electronic lock engages smoothly. If the lock fails to work properly, it may indicate a compatibility issue or a problem with the charging gun.

Moreover, it is vital to avoid using charging guns with dirty gun cores. A dirty gun core can cause a poor electrical connection, which may lead to charging short – circuits. A short – circuit during charging can not only damage the vehicle’s charging port but also pose a risk of electrical shock and fire. Na primjer, if there is dirt or moisture on the gun core, it can create a conductive path that bypasses the normal charging circuit, resulting in abnormal current flow. This abnormal current can cause overheating at the charging port, melting the plastic components and potentially starting a fire. In addition, the sudden short – circuit current can also damage the vehicle’s battery management system and other electrical components, leading to costly repairs.

4. Reading the Charging Process Instructions

Each manufacturer’s charging pile may have a slightly different charging process. Therefore, before charging, it is essential to carefully read the charging process instructions provided on the charging pile or in the associated documentation. These instructions typically include details on how to start the charging process, how to monitor the progress, and how to end the charging safely. Ignoring these instructions can lead to charging failures. Na primjer, some charging piles require users to insert the charging card first and then connect the charging gun, while others may have a different sequence. Some charging piles may also have specific requirements for the way to input charging parameters, such as the charging amount or the charging time limit. By following the correct charging process, users can ensure that the charging process starts smoothly and that the vehicle is charged properly.

When connecting the charging gun to the vehicle, make sure to insert it firmly into the charging socket. A loose connection can cause intermittent charging or even charging failures. As long as sufficient force is applied, the charging gun should fit securely into the socket. However, be careful not to use excessive force that may damage the charging port or the charging gun. After inserting the charging gun, check if the connection is stable and there are no signs of looseness.

II. Safety Precautions for Using Electric Vehicle Charging Piles

1. Proper Handling of the Charging Plug

When plugging in or unplugging the charger, always hold the plug firmly. Pulling on the charging cable instead of the plug can cause damage to the cable and the plug, leading to electrical hazards. The cable is designed to carry electrical current, and if it is damaged, there is a risk of short – circuits, electrical leakage, and even fire. Na primjer, if the outer insulation layer of the cable is damaged due to improper pulling, the internal wires may be exposed. Once the wires are exposed, a person may accidentally touch them and get an electric shock. In addition, a damaged cable can also disrupt the normal flow of electricity, causing charging problems. The resistance of the damaged part of the cable may increase, leading to overheating during charging and potentially starting a fire.

2. Protection of the Charging Cable

Avoid allowing heavy objects to press on the charging cable or stepping on it. A damaged charging cable, such as one with cracks, wear, breaks, or exposed wires, should not be used for charging. A damaged cable can disrupt the normal flow of electricity, leading to charging problems and potential safety hazards. Na primjer, if the cable is stepped on repeatedly, the internal wires may break, causing an open – circuit condition that prevents proper charging. Moreover, exposed wires can cause electric shock if a person comes into contact with them. In rainy or humid environments, the risk of electric shock from a damaged cable is even higher. Water can conduct electricity, and if it comes into contact with the exposed wires, it can create a dangerous situation for anyone in the vicinity.

3. Secure Connection between the Plug and the Socket

During charging, ensure that the charging plug is fully inserted into the socket. A loose connection can cause arcing, overheating, and abnormal charging. Arcing occurs when there is a gap between the plug and the socket, and electricity jumps across the gap. This can generate heat and potentially damage the charging equipment and the vehicle’s charging port. Overheating due to a loose connection can also lead to a fire. Na primjer, if the plug is not inserted fully, the resistance at the connection point increases. According to Ohm’s Law, when the resistance increases and the current remains constant, the power dissipated at the connection point (P = I²R) will increase, causing the area to heat up. If the heat cannot be dissipated effectively, it can melt the plastic components of the plug and socket and potentially start a fire.

4. Professional Installation and Maintenance

Charging piles should be installed and maintained by professional personnel. If there are any problems with the charging pile, do not attempt to fix them yourself. Instead, consult the dealer’s professional staff. Unauthorized disassembly or repair of the charging pile can cause damage to the equipment and pose a risk of electric shock. The internal components of the charging pile are complex and operate at high voltages. Incorrect handling can lead to serious accidents. Na primjer, if a non – professional tries to open the charging pile to repair a perceived problem, they may accidentally touch live parts. The high – voltage components inside the charging pile can deliver a severe electric shock, which can be life – threatening. In addition, improper disassembly may also damage the internal circuits and components, rendering the charging pile inoperable and requiring costly repairs.

5. Avoiding Hazardous Activities Near the Charging Pile

Do not wash your vehicle while it is charging or near the charging pile. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Splashing water near the charging equipment can cause electrical short – circuits and increase the risk of electric shock. Na primjer, if water gets into the charging socket or the charging pile’s electrical components, it can create a conductive path. The water can cause the electrical current to flow in an abnormal way, leading to short – circuits. Short – circuits can damage the charging equipment, the vehicle’s electrical system, and also pose a serious threat to the safety of people nearby. Even a small amount of water splashing onto the charging interface can cause corrosion and damage to the electrical contacts over time.

6. Vehicle Key Status during Charging

When charging an electric vehicle, keep the vehicle key in the off position. This is to prevent accidental activation of the vehicle’s electrical systems during charging, which could interfere with the charging process and pose a safety risk. Na primjer, if the vehicle’s ignition is accidentally turned on while charging, it may cause the charging system to malfunction. The vehicle’s electrical systems may draw additional power, disrupting the normal charging current and voltage. In some cases, it may even cause the battery management system to detect an abnormal charging state and stop the charging process. Moreover, if the vehicle is accidentally put into gear while charging, it can cause a dangerous situation, especially if the charging cable is still connected.

7. Keeping Hazardous Substances Away

Do not place flammable, explosive, or combustible materials, chemicals, or combustible vapors near the charging pile. These substances can easily ignite if there is an electrical spark or overheating during the charging process. A small spark from the charging equipment can ignite flammable vapors, leading to a fire or explosion. Na primjer, storing gasoline cans near a charging pile is extremely dangerous. Gasoline is highly volatile, and the slightest spark from the charging operation, such as a spark generated when plugging or unplugging the charging gun, can ignite the gasoline vapors. Once ignited, the fire can spread rapidly, endangering the charging pile, the vehicle, and the surrounding area. Chemicals such as acids and alkalis can also corrode the charging equipment and the vehicle’s electrical components if they come into contact with them.

8. Responding to Equipment Malfunctions

If the charging pile displays a machine – failure message, do not attempt to charge. Instead, contact the charging – pile maintenance staff immediately. When two charging interfaces are in use simultaneously, users should follow the on – screen operation prompts when swiping their cards to avoid misoperations. Always follow the charging – equipment’s instructions during operation. Ignoring the malfunction message and attempting to charge anyway can cause further damage to the vehicle and the charging equipment and may also pose a safety threat. Na primjer, if the charging pile has a problem with its power supply regulation and the user tries to charge despite the error message, it may over – charge the vehicle’s battery. Over – charging can cause the battery to overheat, swell, and in severe cases, even explode.

9. Protecting Children

Children should be kept away from the charging pile during the charging process. They may not understand the potential dangers and could accidentally touch the charging equipment, causing injury. Na primjer, a child may insert a finger into the charging socket, which can result in electric shock. The high – voltage electricity in the charging socket can cause serious harm to a child’s body. In addition, children may also play with the charging cable or the charging gun, which can lead to damage to the equipment or create a tripping hazard. Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents and guardians to ensure that children are not in the vicinity of the charging pile when it is in use.

10. Precautions in Rainy and Humid Weather

In rainy or humid weather, take proper waterproof and moisture – proof measures before charging. Water can penetrate the charging equipment and the vehicle’s charging port, causing electrical problems. Na primjer, using a waterproof cover for the charging pile can prevent rainwater from entering the internal components. Before connecting the charging gun, make sure that the charging port is dry. If there is moisture in the charging port, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe it thoroughly. Moisture in the charging port can cause corrosion of the electrical contacts, leading to poor electrical connection and potential charging failures. In addition, in humid environments, the insulation performance of the charging equipment may be reduced, increasing the risk of electrical leakage.

Zaključno, using an electric vehicle charging pile requires careful attention to pre – charging checks and safety precautions. By following these guidelines, electric vehicle owners can ensure a safe and efficient charging experience, protecting both themselves and their vehicles from potential hazards. As the electric vehicle industry continues to grow, these safety measures will become even more important for the widespread adoption and safe use of electric vehicles.