What ChargeSmart charging stations do

ChargeSmart is a network of public electric vehicle charging stations where you can plug in and charge your car while you're away from home. The stations are located at parking lots, shopping centers, workplaces, and other public spaces. You pay per charging session, either through a membership plan or a pay-as-you-go rate, depending on which option you choose.

Unlike home charging, which you control on your own schedule, public charging stations like ChargeSmart let you top up your battery while running errands or traveling. The network operates in multiple locations, though availability varies by region. Each station has one or more charging ports, and you reserve or start a session using the ChargeSmart app or a membership card.

Key Takeaways

  • ChargeSmart stations charge your vehicle at public locations using the ChargeSmart app or membership card to start and pay for sessions.
  • You can choose between pay-per-use pricing or a membership plan, depending on how often you charge away from home.
  • Charging speed depends on the port type — Level 2 chargers are slower but more common, while DC fast chargers add significant range in 20 to 40 minutes.
  • You need a compatible vehicle and a way to pay, either through the app or a registered membership account.
  • Station locations and real-time availability are shown in the ChargeSmart app so you can find an open port before you drive there.

How to start charging at a ChargeSmart station

First, read the ChargeSmart app or visit their website to create an account. You'll provide your email, payment method, and vehicle information. Once your account is set up, you can locate nearby stations using the app's map feature, which shows real-time availability — whether ports are open, in use, or out of service.

When you arrive at a station, plug your vehicle's charging cable into an available port. Open the app, select the station and port number, and start the session. The app will show you the charging speed, estimated time to full charge, and the cost as it accumulates. You can monitor the session from your phone and receive a notification when charging is complete.

Payment happens automatically through your registered payment method. You'll receive a receipt in the app showing the kilowatt-hours charged, the duration, and the total cost. If you prefer not to use the app, some ChargeSmart stations accept membership cards or RFID tags that you tap to start a session.

Pricing options: membership versus pay-as-you-go

ChargeSmart offers two main ways to pay. With pay-as-you-go, you pay per kilowatt-hour or per minute of charging time without committing to a membership. This works well if you charge away from home only occasionally. Rates vary by location and charger type, and you'll see the price before you start each session.

A membership plan typically involves a monthly fee that gives you a lower per-session rate or per-kilowatt-hour cost. If you charge several times a week, a membership usually costs less over time than paying per use. Some memberships also include perks like priority access to fast chargers or discounts at partner locations. Compare your expected monthly charging costs against the membership fee to decide which makes sense for you.

Level 2 versus DC fast charging

ChargeSmart stations come in two main types, and the difference matters for how long you'll wait. Level 2 chargers are the most common and add 10 to 30 miles of range per hour, depending on your vehicle. A full charge typically takes four to ten hours. Level 2 is ideal for charging while you shop, work, or park overnight.

DC fast chargers are much quicker, adding 100 to 200 miles of range in 20 to 40 minutes. They're useful for road trips or when you need a quick top-up. DC fast charging costs more per session than Level 2, and not all vehicles support it — check your vehicle's manual or the ChargeSmart app to see which charger types your car can use.

The app shows which charger type is at each station, so you can plan accordingly. If you're making a quick errand, a Level 2 charger might not add enough range to be worth the stop. If you're on a long drive, a DC fast charger is usually the better choice despite the higher cost.

What to do if a station is broken or unavailable

The ChargeSmart app shows real-time status for every port at every station. If a port shows as "out of service" or "unavailable," you can't use it, but the app will direct you to the nearest working station. Some stations have multiple ports, so even if one is broken, others may be available.

If you arrive at a station and find a port isn't working as shown in the app, report it through the app's support feature. ChargeSmart's maintenance team is notified and typically repairs issues within 24 to 48 hours. In the meantime, use the app to find another station nearby. Membership holders may receive credits if they're unable to charge due to station outages, though policies vary.

Compatibility and what vehicles can use ChargeSmart

Any battery electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can use ChargeSmart stations. Your vehicle needs either a Level 2 port, a DC fast-charging port, or both. Nearly all modern EVs have at least one of these. Check your vehicle's manual or the ChargeSmart app's compatibility tool to confirm which port types your car supports.

Your vehicle's charging port type is fixed — you can't change it. However, ChargeSmart stations are designed to work with the standard port types used in North America, so compatibility is rarely an issue. If you're unsure whether your specific vehicle works with ChargeSmart, the app will tell you during account setup.

Tips for using ChargeSmart stations efficiently

Plan ahead using the app's map. Check station locations and availability before you leave home so you're not searching for a charger when your battery is low. If you know you'll charge regularly, calculate whether a membership saves money compared to pay-as-you-go rates for your typical usage.

Avoid leaving your car plugged in after charging is complete. Most stations charge an idle fee if your vehicle stays connected after the session ends, which adds to your cost. Set a phone reminder or enable notifications in the app so you unplug promptly. If you're charging overnight or for several hours, Level 2 is usually sufficient and costs less than DC fast charging.

Keep your payment method current in the app. If your card expires or is declined, your charging session may be interrupted. Review your charging history in the app regularly to track costs and spot any unusual charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reserve a ChargeSmart station in advance?

Most ChargeSmart networks do not allow advance reservations. You locate an available port using the app and start charging when you arrive. Some networks offer a "hold" feature that reserves a port for 15 to 30 minutes, but this varies by location. Check your local ChargeSmart app to see if this feature is available in your area.

What happens if my car is still charging when I need to leave?

You can end the session in the app at any time, even if your battery isn't full. The charging stops when ready and you're charged only for the energy you used. If you need to leave before a full charge, straightforward end the session and drive to your destination or find another charger later.

Do I need to own a ChargeSmart membership to use the stations?

No. You can pay per use without a membership by using the app or a pay-as-you-go account. A membership is optional and makes sense only if you charge away from home frequently enough that the monthly fee is offset by lower per-session rates.

Are ChargeSmart stations safe to use at night?

Most ChargeSmart stations are located in well-lit public areas like parking lots and shopping centers. Safety depends on the specific location. Check the station's location in the app before you go, and use common sense about parking in unfamiliar areas at night. Many stations are monitored by security cameras.

What if I have a problem during a charging session?

The ChargeSmart app has a support button you can tap to contact customer service. You can also call the support number listed in the app. If a charger malfunctions mid-session, stop the session in the app and report the issue. You'll be charged only for the charging time that actually occurred.