Pod Point Problems

In this article, we will discuss a situation that arose in a forum where individuals shared their experiences and insights regarding Pod Point electric car charger issues. We will explore a specific problem related to solar power and potential solutions without referencing the forum directly.

Identifying the Issue

One forum user reported a callback related to a PV (photovoltaic)/battery installation job involving an electric car charger, specifically a Pod Point charger. According to the user, the charger was initially working for approximately 30 seconds before turning red and halting the charging process.

A Mysterious Problem

The user mentioned that the charger had been disconnected for a week, but upon reconnection, it had power. However, instead of functioning correctly, it seemed to require some sort of software update from its manufacturer. The user expressed uncertainty about how this issue had occurred but emphasized that it was crucial not to spend excessive time testing and reading instructions.

Possible Explanations and Solutions

1. Overvoltage Warning: Some forum participants speculated that the issue might be related to overvoltage. Solar power systems can sometimes feed a few volts more than the incoming grid, which could exceed the charge point’s voltage threshold. It’s worth checking whether the charger has an adjustable threshold for overvoltage.
2. PV (Solar) Disconnect: To test whether solar power was causing the problem, participants suggested turning off the PV isolator temporarily. If the electric vehicle (EV) charger remains operational with the PV system disconnected, it could indicate that solar power was indeed causing the issue.
3. Contact the Supplier: If the charger’s voltage reading exceeds the threshold (e.g., above 253 volts), it’s advisable to contact the supplier or manufacturer for assistance. They may need to adjust the charger’s settings to accommodate the specific voltage conditions.
4. Earth and Spike Check: Consider inspecting the grounding and checking for any potential voltage spikes. Faulty earthing or sudden voltage spikes could affect the charger’s operation.
5. Manufacturer Support: In the case mentioned in the forum, the user reached out to the manufacturer of the car charger. The manufacturer communicated with the charger remotely (as it was connected to Wi-Fi) and adjusted an internal software setting. This modification allowed the charger to recognize that it was connected to a solar/battery-equipped consumer unit (CU).
6. Consider Both Modes: The user questioned why the car charger would differentiate between grid power and solar power. Some participants suggested that the charger should be set to operate seamlessly with both power sources, eliminating the need for such distinctions.

In conclusion, while the exact cause of the Pod Point electric car charger issue in the forum discussion remains somewhat mysterious, there are several potential factors to consider. These include overvoltage, PV system interference, faulty grounding, and software settings. When encountering such problems, consulting with the charger manufacturer or supplier and adjusting settings to accommodate specific conditions can often lead to a resolution.