There’s nothing like the excitement that comes with purchasing an electric vehicle for the first time.

Of course, most attention is focused on the vehicle’s attractive features and performance, but equal consideration should also be given to how and where to charge the vehicle.

Despite the growing number of public charging stations now available throughout several cities and locations, many consumers will still opt for the convenience (and cost savings) of having their own personal chargers at home. However, when it comes to these types of chargers – technically referred to as Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) – safety should also be considered.

Since at-home Level 1 and Level 2 chargers serve as the electrical gateway through which EVs derive their power/energy, EvTEK Charging Solutions. believes that it is important to understand the underlying safety concerns to mitigate any potentially hazardous risks.

HAZARDS OF EV CHARGERS

Fire is the number one hazard when it comes to EVSE installations. While fire can be caused by a variety of reasons, the most common cause is outdated electrical wiring and power supplies within the building or structure where the charger is installed.

All electrical wiring should meet the EVSE’s charging requirements and should be compatible with each of the equipment’s technical specifications, regardless of whether it’s a Level 1 or Level 2 charger. For example, a standard 32A wall-mounted AC charger requires a voltage range of 110V-240V and 32A of charging power.

Once mounted onto a wall, the charger is then connected to the structure’s power source or grid, which must be able to support the charging system’s specifications to transfer the AC power safely and successfully to the vehicle during charging.

Without the proper electrical support, the charger could overheat and cause a failure. Unlike standard AC EV chargers EvTEK Chargers features a temperature sensor function that detects overheating.

Another potential hazard involving chargers is Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) failure. Standard EV chargers are connected to their power source via a GFCI electrical outlet since they are specifically designed to prevent electrical shock occurrences. However, in some parts of the world, reports have revealed a 57% failure rate among GFCI breakers, citing variables such as lightning, age, and wear, as well as ineffective inspection policies as contributors to the failure of these devices.

Therefore, it is important that before installing the charger, the GFCI to which it will be connected should be thoroughly inspected to ensure there is no existing damage. EvTEK Chargers have ground monitoring detection within the charger.