You’re standing at a charging station and see a green, blue or maybe even red light flashing. But what exactly does it mean? Charging stations use color codes to indicate whether charging is possible, the transaction is in progress or there is a malfunction. Not all charging stations use the same signals, which can cause confusion. In this blog, we explain what the different colors mean and how you can assess them before continuing on your journey. That way, you’ll always know if your car is charging correctly or if action is needed.
Why do charging stations emit different colors of light?
Charging stations use different colors to indicate the status of the charging process. This allows you to know at a glance whether a charging station is available, charging is in progress or there is a problem. Green usually means you can charge, blue means the car is charging and red indicates a malfunction. Some poles flash a specific status, such as a blinking green light when the charging card has been accepted. The exact meaning varies by manufacturer and type of charging station, but the colors help you quickly understand what is happening.
Charging station flashes red
A red flashing light on a charging station indicates an error message. Such an error message has several causes. Consider a problem with the charging station itself, a failed connection to the car or an interruption in the power supply. It often helps to reinsert the charging cable or present the charging card again. Does the red light keep flashing? Then it’s smart to call the help desk of the charging station operator. In many cases, the pole can be reset remotely so you can still continue charging your electric car.
Charging station flashes green
Is the charging station flashing green? Then your charging card has been accepted and the cable is connected correctly. This means the charging session is about to begin. Sometimes it takes a few seconds before the car actually starts charging. Is it still not working? Try presenting the charge card again or check that your car is ready to charge. In some cases, plugging in the charging cable again helps. If the problem persists, there may be a defect in the charging point or in the car itself.
Charging pole blue light
A blue light on a charging station, sometimes with an hourglass icon, means the station is communicating with the vehicle. This could mean that the charging process is being prepared or that charging is complete but the cable is still connected. Is this taking longer than normal? If so, check that the car is properly set up for charging. In some cases, you may need to present the charging card again to start the charging session. Does the blue light stay on without anything happening? Then restarting the charging station or car may help.
Battery icon on charging station illuminates
Is the battery icon on the charging station lit? Then the charging transaction is active and your car is being charged. This means that power is flowing to the battery. How long this takes depends on the charging rate and your vehicle. Often the icon changes color or turns off when the battery is full. Does the icon stay on while connected electric vehicles are not charging? Then it helps to offer the charging card again or plug it in again. In some cases, there is an error and you need to contact the charging station operator or supplier.
What if the charging station does not give a light signal?
Is the charging station not giving off any light at all? This could mean that the charging station is not receiving electricity, is turned off or has a technical fault. First check to see if other charging stations in the same location as your chosen one are working. If only your pole is off, it is likely that a power failure or malfunction is the cause. Try presenting your charging card again or reconnecting the cable. Is that not working? Look for a reset button or contact the administrator for that. Sometimes a fault can be fixed remotely so you can still charge your electric car.
What to do in case of malfunctions or unknown light signals?
Sometimes a charging station emits a color or flashing light signal that you may not immediately recognize from the common colors. In that case, it’s helpful to consult the charge station operator’s manual or app first. Is the charging station not working as expected? Then try reconnecting the charging cable or presenting the charging card again. If that doesn’t help, then a reset of the pole may be necessary. Does the problem persist? Then contact the administrator or help desk of the public charging station to report it and get further support.
Would you like to request a charging station?
Requesting an electric charging station or learning more about our rates? Our service desk is available 24/7 for all your questions. Are you interested in public charging stations or a business charging station? We are happy to help you with extensive information and professional advice. With our experience, we always find the best charging solution for your situation. Feel free to contact Opcharge and find out what options are available for your location.