Essential Guide to EV Charger Maintenance Tips

As the UK accelerates its transition to electric vehicles, the infrastructure that powers them must be just as dependable. At ZOLB EV, we don’t just design, manufacture, and install EV charge points — we ensure they stay in peak condition where we install them.

Following a regular maintenance schedule and practicing proper care for both public and home EV chargers is essential to keep your EV running smoothly and to maximize the lifespan and performance of your charging equipment.

Preventive maintenance is key to ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of your EV charging infrastructure. While we don’t offer a separate maintenance package, we do maintain our charge points on-site after installation. This blog outlines everything you need to know about maintaining your EV charge points, with actionable tips and a handy checklist for EV charger owners.

Why Preventive Maintenance for EV Chargers Matters

Reliability

Preventive maintenance helps reduce downtime and inconvenience for users.

Safety

Faulty units pose a risk of electric shock, fire, and other electrical hazards. They can create potential hazards and safety risks for users and property, especially if charging cables are damaged or connections are loose.

Cost Savings

Preventative action reduces expensive emergency repairs and early replacement.

Lifespan

Regular care extends the service life of your units. Identifying and replacing affected components during maintenance can significantly extend the service life of your units.

UK Regulations Around EV Charger Maintenance

In the UK, EV charge points fall under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, requiring employers and duty holders to ensure electrical systems are maintained in a safe condition. Additionally, BS 7671 IET Wiring Regulations recommend regular inspection and testing of electrical installations, including EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment).

Following the manufacturer’s guidelines is essential for compliance with UK regulations.

Failure to comply can result in fines, liability, and invalid insurance.

Key Preventive Maintenance Procedures

Below are key steps in preventive maintenance for EV chargers and how charge point owners can address them.

Visual Inspections

• Check for physical damage to casing, display, and cables.
• Perform regular inspections for loose connections and damaged cables. Look for burns, cracks, worn connectors, or any instability in electrical connections.
• Inspect the charging port for dirt, debris, or damage. Clean gently with a soft brush or Q-tip to maintain optimal contact.
• Ensure mounting is secure and unit isn’t tilted or loose.
• Look for signs of vandalism or tampering.

Example: A cracked display may still function but can let in moisture, leading to internal faults.

Cleaning

• Wipe down units with a damp microfiber cloth for general cleaning, and use a dry cloth to gently clean the connectors.
• Perform regular cleaning of the charging contacts using a Q-tip to carefully remove dirt and debris, ensuring optimal charging performance.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or water jets.
• Keep vents and screens free of dust and grime.

Weather Tip: In winter, remove ice build-up and avoid rock salt near charging units as it can corrode components.

Cable and Connector Care

• Inspect the charging cable and ev charging cables for cracks, wear, exposed wires, or other damage.
• Ensure connectors lock securely into vehicles.
• Store charging cables on designated hooks to prevent dragging.
• Repair or replace any damaged cables promptly to maintain proper functionality.

Pro Tip: A stretched or kinked cable can lead to charging errors or tripping hazards. Proper care of your cables is essential for the overall performance and safety of your EV charging station.

Weatherproofing

• Inspect seals, gaskets, and enclosures for integrity.
• Look for signs of water ingress (mould, rust, condensation).
• Protect units from extreme temperatures by using appropriate weatherproofing and insulation to ensure best performance.

Example: A poorly sealed charging unit exposed to heavy rain may short-circuit internally.

Weatherproofing is essential for ensuring optimal performance of outdoor EV chargers year-round.

Fault Detection

• Regularly test units using vehicle simulations or diagnostics software.
• Monitor for error messages, performance issues, slow charging, intermittent faults, or unresponsive touchscreens.
• Address any electrical issues promptly to prevent further faults.

ZOLB Units: Our units come with remote fault detection that alerts us to issues post-installation.

Software & Firmware Updates

• Keep firmware up to date to ensure compatibility and cybersecurity.
• Schedule periodic checks with your installer or manufacturer.
• Check if your unit can update automatically through the manufacturer app, and manually verify that your charger is running the latest software and firmware versions.

Did You Know? Updates can resolve glitches, improve charger performance, and add new features like load balancing or payment options, enhancing reliability and efficiency.

EV Charger Maintenance Checklist

Note: Routine upkeep and station maintenance, including scheduling professional maintenance and comprehensive maintenance services, are essential for ensuring the long-term safety, reliability, and peak performance of your EV charging station.

When to Seek Professional Help

While routine checks can be done by site staff, some issues require expert intervention:

• Persistent charging errors or faults
• Tripping circuit breakers
• Internal water damage or corrosion
• Software glitches or update failures

For complex or unresolved issues, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from a professional electrician or certified electricians to ensure safety, compliance, and optimal operation of your EV chargers.

ZOLB EV technicians are available for on-site diagnostics and repairs for all units we install.

Importance of Professional Inspections

An annual inspection by a qualified technician is essential. It includes:

• Electrical testing (insulation, continuity, earth loop impedance)
• Diagnostic logs analysis
• Firmware health checks
• Certification for compliance

This ensures your system meets UK safety standards and insurance requirements.

Ready to Power Your Business with Reliable EV Charging?

Whether you’re looking to install new EV chargers or maintain existing ones, ZOLB EV offers end-to-end solutions — from bespoke design to on-site maintenance for our units.

Get in touch with our team today to power up your workplace, business, or public space with reliable EV charging technology.

EV Charging Station Maintenance FAQs

Do EV charge points require maintenance?

Yes, just like any electrical device, regular inspection and cleaning help ensure safe and efficient operation.

Can I do EV charge point maintenance myself?

Basic tasks like cleaning and visual inspections can be done by site staff, but electrical testing should be performed by professionals.

What happens if I ignore EV charger maintenance?

It increases the risk of failure, safety hazards, non-compliance with regulations, and costly repairs.

Do ZOLB EV units notify me of faults?

Yes — our smart units include remote diagnostics that notify us of potential issues after installation.

Do I need maintenance if the charge point isn’t used often?

Yes — exposure to the elements or idle faults can still occur even when the unit isn’t actively used.