Effective ion charge (Zeff) is an important parameter in fusion research and can be used to quantify impurity levels. Investigation into Zeff helps us to understand the impurity generation and transport mechanisms in order to find an effective way to control impurity levels. This key parameter Zeff is measured by the visible bremsstrahlung diagnostic in the EAST tokamak. In this report, Zeff and impurity behavior in siliconization and lithium coating experiments have been investigated. Comparisons of averaged Zeff and Zeff profiles have been made between L-mode and H-mode discharges. It is found that the dependence of Zeff on averaged electron density complies with the hyperbolic scaling. Finally, Zeff behavior in auxiliary heating experiments is analyzed in detail. The relationship between Zeff and external power injected into plasma in lower hybrid wave and ion cyclotron resonance frequency heating has been summarized and analyzed.