As the world switch to electric vehicles (EVs) rapidly, the required infrastructure—especially public charging stations—is growing at an unprecedented pace.
Public EV charging stations makes EV ownership more accessible. When a driver knows that they have these stations on their route or nearby, they feel less range anxiety. However, with any shared resource, a little courtesy and understanding ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
Just like pumping gas, there is an obvious code of conduct to follow at public charging stations to keep things fair and efficient. Let’s learn those unwritten rules, ensuring a positive experience for all EV drivers, whether you are using any electric vehicle charging stations in Colorado or any other part of the world.
Understanding Your Charging Needs and Others’
One of basic principle of good charging etiquette is to be aware of your charging needs compared to others. Not all EVs are required to be charged to 100% every single time. See if your top-up is enough to reach your destination or home, where you may have access to slower, cheaper charging.
For example, a driver needs a DC fast charger when their vehicle has 20% battery remaining and long journey ahead. If another driver occupies the spot and is charging their vehicle from 90% to 100%, they might be bothering someone facing an urgent need to get their vehicle charged immediately.
Of course, it is your right to charge. However, it is important to consider other’s needs, especially at high-demand locations. If you only need a quick boost, you can use a slower Level 2 charger if available, leaving the faster chargers for those who truly require a rapid charge.
The Art of the “Charge and Move”
Once your EV is at, or close to, the desired charge level (presumably 100 percent), move your EV. Lot of EV drivers are troubled by the other EVs which stay at the spot even after being fully charged.
When a gasoline car blocks an EV spot, the practice is often called “ICEing” (for Internal Combustion Engine vehicle.) It is also applied to “EV blocking EV’s way” which is known as charger hogging. Many charging networks will charge idle fees if your EV doesn’t move as soon as it is charged. Be aware of these potential fees and set reminders on your phone or in your car’s app to check your charging status.
Charging Cables and Connectors
Always carefully re-coil the cable when you are done with charging and hang it back on the holster. Don’t leave them on the ground. Not only it creates a tripping hazard, but also damage the cable or the connector.
Also, make sure you have the appropriate connector for your car. Do not ever JAM a connector into you vehicles port. You should try it on; if it doesn’t fit, it’s not the right one.
Communicating with Fellow EV Drivers
Sometimes, communication is key.
If you have to be away from your car for a while and are fine with another driver unplugging when they are done, make sure to leave a note on your dashboard with your phone number. This simple gesture will ease the tension for the other drivers who were waiting to take over a spot, and it may save them from having to wait forever.
Likewise, if you see a car which is fully charged but your charge is urgent, leaving a polite note on their windshield or knocking on the nearest door (if available, like in hotels or restaurants) can be a useful solution in many cases. Always retain some level of discretion and civility.
Reporting Issues and Maintenance
Not happy with the public charging station service? Or you have just found a faulty charger? Getting frustration is obvious. However, that doesn’t mean to curse them or vent out your anger on their staff. Take a moment to report the issue. Public charging stations are generally equipped with a phone number or a QR code to register your complaint or suggestions directly to the network operator. Sending information related to the issue such as faulty charger 2 or damaged cables helps maintenance teams respond quickly and efficiently.
Together, these reports keep EV charging stations up and running. Protecting the usability of these critical resources is a shared responsibility.
Parking with Purpose
Finally, always park properly within the designated parking spot. Do not block other chargers, pathways, or handicapped spaces. While charging areas are clearly marked, there may be some tighter-end spots.
For the charging bays not enclosed by signs and posts — keep an eye on the space you’re using up and try to leave adjacent ones free for other drivers. Chaotic parking will create inconvenience and make it challenging for other drivers to move or get their EVs into position. This concern can be more troublesome for larger EVs.
Use Apps and Notification to Stay Aware:
Many EV apps help you keep track of your charging progress in real-time. Your EV must have a dedicated app. Or you can opt for any third party apps. Use them to know when your car is ready to move. Some apps even send you a notification when charging is complete. If you are charging in a busy station, make sure to set a reminder to return before the care is fully charged.
This helps avoid “charger hogging” and keeps things moving for everyone.
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The Bottom Line:
Keep in mind that public EV charging stations are a shared resource. Therefore, you should use them responsibly so that everyone can be benefitted from them. While not all of these rules are written down, they are building blocks of respectful behavior among EV drivers.
Practicing courtesy and patience can ensure a better experience for everyone at public charging stations. By keeping these simple guidelines in mind, you can contribute to make a more efficient, enjoyable and sustainable ecosystem.
The next time you use any EV charging station, keep in mind that others are likely to wait for their turn.
