Start with the right filters, not the nearest pin
The closest charger on the map is often the wrong one. Before you drive anywhere, filter by the two things that actually determine whether a stop succeeds: connector type and charging speed. A CHAdeMO-only station is useless to a CCS car, and a 3 kW destination charger won't help when you need 200 km in 25 minutes.
In the EV-Lectric locator, set your connector (NACS, CCS, Type 2, or CHAdeMO) and a minimum power level first. Everything left on the map is a genuine candidate.
Read the station detail before you commit
Open the station card and check three things: the network operating it, the number of connectors, and the access notes. A single-plug station means a queue risk; a station marked as customer-only parking may require a purchase or hotel stay.
Keep in mind that station listings come from public registries such as Open Charge Map. They describe what is installed — location, connectors, power, operator — but they can't always tell you whether a plug is free or working at this exact moment.
- Network — tells you which app or payment method you'll need, and who to contact if a plug fails.
- Connector count — more plugs means less waiting and a fallback if one is out of service.
- Access — public 24/7, business-hours only, or patrons-only.
- Recent status and comments — recent check-ins from other drivers are a useful (if imperfect) signal that a site is working.
Have a plan B within ten minutes
Even on reliable networks, individual plugs fail. Before relying on any fast-charging stop — especially on road trips — identify a backup station within a ten-minute drive. If the map shows only one fast charger within range, treat your arrival state of charge as your safety margin and charge earlier than you strictly need to.
Save the stations that work
When a stop goes smoothly — plugs available, sensible pricing, decent amenities — save it. A short personal list of proven chargers around your home, workplace, and frequent routes beats re-researching every trip. EV-Lectric accounts include saved stations and route drafts for exactly this.
