Installation of charging piles in underground parking lots: pitfalls that new energy vehicle owners must be wary of

For new electric vehicle owners, the following tips can be referenced when installing charging piles in underground parking garages.

1. Preparation before installation

Understand garage regulations: Communicate thoroughly with the property management to clarify whether the installation of charging piles is allowed in the underground garage, and whether there are restrictions on the number and power of charging piles. Also, understand what safety measures or documents need to be provided.
Confirm power capacity: Have professionals assess whether the power capacity of the underground garage is sufficient. If it is insufficient, apply to the power company for additional power supply to ensure the charging pile can operate normally without affecting other electrical devices.
Obtain relevant proof: Usually, you need to apply to the property management for a certificate of consent to install the charging pile, and prepare materials such as ID card, proof of ownership of the fixed parking space (if it is a rented space, a long-term lease contract must be provided) for subsequent application to the power company for installing the meter. Starting from November 2023, some cities have also launched a "one-stop" service for the installation of electric vehicle charging piles, optimizing the application process. You can pay attention to local policies for any related convenience measures.
Choose a suitable location: Select a location that does not affect the normal parking and movement of other vehicles, and is convenient for vehicle entry and charging operations. Ensure there is enough space around the charging pile for maintenance and inspection. Additionally, avoid special areas such as fire lanes and civil defense doors.
Consider the type of charging pile: Choose the appropriate type of charging pile based on actual needs and vehicle compatibility, such as AC slow charging piles or DC fast charging piles. At the same time, ensure that the selected charging pile meets national safety standards.

2. Key points during the installation process

Cable wiring planning: This is one of the key steps. Plan the direction and length of the cables reasonably based on the selected installation location and meter location. Choose cable specifications that meet power requirements and ensure their quality is reliable. When wiring, try to keep away from heat sources, water sources, and other factors that may damage the cables, and avoid crossing or entangling with other pipelines. If the cables need to pass through trays or conduits, ensure they are securely fixed.
Waterproof and moisture-proof treatment: Since underground garages are relatively humid, it is essential to choose charging piles with good waterproof functions, or install effective waterproof facilities around the charging pile, such as waterproof boxes and covers, to prevent moisture from entering and causing equipment failure or safety hazards. Additionally, the installation location should avoid areas prone to water accumulation.
Control safety distance: The charging pile should maintain a sufficient safety distance from flammable and explosive materials to reduce the risk of fire or other safety incidents. Follow relevant safety standards and regulations to ensure the surrounding environment is safe.
Correctly connect the lines: When connecting the neutral, live, and ground wires of the charging pile, it must be done by professionals to ensure the connections are correct and secure, avoiding poor contact that could lead to heating issues. Before conducting power tests, recheck all line connections to confirm safety.
Ensure lighting and signal: The installation location should have sufficient lighting to clearly see the status and operation indicators of the charging pile during use. At the same time, ensure that the signal is stable in that location to enable the normal use of the charging pile's related smart functions, such as control and monitoring via a mobile app.
Set clear signage: Install clear and prominent signs and indicators around the charging pile to remind users of safety precautions, including correct operating methods, charging processes, and emergency handling.
Pay attention to the location of the distribution box: Clearly identify the location of the distribution box, preferably in a dry and well-ventilated area to prevent moisture from affecting its normal operation. Additionally, ensure that safety protection measures for the distribution box are in place to avoid misoperation by non-professionals.

3. Inspection and maintenance after installation

Initial inspection and testing: After installation, conduct a comprehensive inspection and testing. This includes checking whether the appearance of the charging pile is intact, whether all functions are normal, whether the charging gun can be plugged and unplugged normally, and whether there are any abnormal situations during charging. Also, test the compatibility of the charging pile with the vehicle to ensure smooth charging.
Regular maintenance: Follow the recommendations provided by the charging pile manufacturer or installer for regular maintenance and inspection. This mainly includes checking whether the line connections are loose, whether the equipment is damaged, and whether the waterproof and moisture-proof measures are effective. Clean the surface of the charging pile to prevent dust and debris from accumulating and affecting heat dissipation.
Monitor usage: During daily use, pay attention to the working status of the charging pile. If any abnormalities are found, stop using it immediately and contact professionals for repairs. Also, keep an eye on changes in the overall environment of the underground garage, such as leaks or water accumulation, and address these issues promptly to avoid affecting the normal use and safety of the charging pile.
Understand warranty services: Be clear about the warranty terms and service content of the installed charging pile. If quality issues arise during the warranty period, contact the manufacturer or installation unit promptly for repairs or replacements.
Learn emergency handling: Understand some basic emergency handling knowledge, such as knowing how to take the correct measures in case of charging pile failures or electric leakage to avoid greater losses.

In summary, installing charging piles in underground garages requires comprehensive consideration of multiple factors, strict adherence to relevant regulations and standards, attention to detail and safety, to ensure smooth installation and subsequent normal use. This not only provides convenience for charging electric vehicles but also maximizes the safety and stability of the garage. If there are any uncertain issues during the installation process, it is recommended to consult professional charging pile installation service providers or relevant technical personnel.