Public chargers are shared spaces. For those new to electric cars, small actions make a big difference in safety and site flow.
This guide brings together simple etiquette practices with a focus on safety: what to do before, during, and after charging, avoiding common mistakes and risky situations.
Before parking: observe the surroundings and the equipment
When you arrive at the charging point, pause for a few seconds and do a quick scan of the area. This helps prevent incidents even before connecting the cable.
- Check that the spot is reserved for charging and that there is active signage. - Observe the condition of the charger: doors closed, cables intact, no exposed parts. - Avoid flooded areas, slippery floors, or obstacles near the cable.
Safe connection: basic steps that prevent surprises
Proper connection reduces electrical and mechanical risks, especially for beginners.
Order matters when charging
- Park, turn off the car, and engage the parking brake. - Connect the cable to the charger first and then to the vehicle (or follow the station’s own instructions when indicated). - Confirm on the dashboard or the charger app that the session started correctly.
Avoid forcing connectors: if it doesn’t fit easily, something is wrong.
During charging: predictable behavior is safety
While the car is charging, etiquette helps keep the area organized and reduces conflicts.
- Do not touch cables connected to other vehicles. - Avoid leaving personal items near the charger or blocking the walkway. - If you need to step away, keep notifications enabled to know when charging finishes.
Respect time: free the spot when charging is done
Public chargers are not long-term parking spaces. Staying longer than necessary can create risks and disrupt flow.
- Disconnect as soon as you reach your planned charge level. - If there is a queue, prioritize enough charge to continue your trip. - Avoid “topping up to 100%” unnecessarily at fast chargers.
Personal safety: be aware of people and traffic
Chargers are often located in open areas or busy parking lots.
- Watch out for vehicle traffic around the cable. - Avoid using your phone distractedly while connecting or disconnecting. - Prefer well-lit times and locations, especially at night.
Disconnection and departure: finish the right way
Ending the session properly prevents damage to the equipment and the vehicle.
- End the charging session via the indicated panel, button, or app. - Wait for the connector to unlock before pulling the cable. - Coil and store the cable according to the charger’s guidance.
Common problems: when not to insist
Not every error is solved by trying again.
- If the charger shows repeated fault messages, switch to another unit. - Warm cables, strange smells, or unusual noises are signs to stop charging. - When in doubt, prioritize safety and don’t improvise.
Adopting good etiquette at public chargers is part of the electric car learning curve. With attention to detail and respect for shared space, the experience becomes safer for everyone.
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