Extension cords with EVSE level 1 chargers

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zbang

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A good friend recently got a plug-in Prius and, of course, the closest receptacle is just a little too far if they park front-end-in (and with good reason they hate to back in). The instructions are apparently very clear to never use an extension cord, but for the life of me I can't think of a single reason why a properly-sized and good-condition cord would be the slightest problem. Yes, installing a closer outlet is the right solution (and I'm probably doing that in a couple of weeks), but the loan of a 6' 12g cord would be a great help until the new outlet appears. (Longer EVSE cables are $$$$$$$ for no apparent reason.)

What's the deal? Is this simply protecting idiots from themselves? (I like to think I'm a higher-class idiot :ROFLMAO:.)
 
Some of the newer chargers for thses vehicles have a built in sensors that prevent overload of circuit, the stated intent is to allow for a wider range of power sources in a typical home without having to install a 40 or 50 amp circuit. Their statement is that adding an extension cord will inhibit that capability, and also will increase charging times.
Had a customer with one of those plug-in hybrids, was working there and as I was coming thru the garage could smell something burning, checked around and found his car plugged in using an extension cord, cord was near total failure and began melting. Temperature in the middle of cord was 145° F and about 100° above ambient, cord end was at 206°, not good. Cord was a standard HD cord of 12AWG conductor, while a cannot attest to the cord condition prior to it being used, it was no longer useable after this.
 
A level 1 EVSE is no different than any other 120V, 12 amp continuous load.

I wouldn’t hesitate to use a quality extension cord, if needed. However, if this is going to be used in this location regularly, I go for a permanent fix.
 
FWIW, some cord and plug connected EVSEs include thermal monitoring of the plug end, which should shut off the EVSE if plugged into a receptacle that provides a poor connection. An extension cord would defeat that.

Cheers, Wayne
 
Fred B said:
Had a customer with one of those plug-in hybrids, was working there and as I was coming thru the garage could smell something burning, checked around and found his car plugged in using an extension cord, cord was near total failure and began melting. Temperature in the middle of cord was 145° F and about 100° above ambient, cord end was at 206°, not good. Cord was a standard HD cord of 12AWG conductor, while a cannot attest to the cord condition prior to it being used, it was no longer useable after this.
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you happened to have instrument to check temp with you, or left cord plugged in while you went to get it?
 
readydave8 said:
you happened to have instrument to check temp with you, or left cord plugged in while you went to get it?
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I just happened to actually have it litterally within a couple of feet. 2 steps. Didn't really realize how bad it was until I measured the temp. Only after unplugging and picking up to unplug if from the car end did I realize how melted it was.
 
Fred B said:
Some of the newer chargers for thses vehicles have a built in sensors that prevent overload of circuit, the stated intent is to allow for a wider range of power sources in a typical home without having to install a 40 or 50 amp circuit. Their statement is that adding an extension cord will inhibit that capability, and also will increase charging times.
Had a customer with one of those plug-in hybrids, was working there and as I was coming thru the garage could smell something burning, checked around and found his car plugged in using an extension cord, cord was near total failure and began melting. Temperature in the middle of cord was 145° F and about 100° above ambient, cord end was at 206°, not good. Cord was a standard HD cord of 12AWG conductor, while a cannot attest to the cord condition prior to it being used, it was no longer useable after this.
Click to expand...
The varying temperatures would indicate different damage levels along the cord, possible broken and/or melted wire strands in the middle, bad connection(s) at the end.
 
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