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All About EV Chargers

Can You Use an Extension Cord with an EV Charger (EVSE)

11/28/2021

23 Comments

 

Extension Cord Guide

The simple answer is YES but you have to follow guidelines and check for heating
The problem with using extension cords with EV Charger is that they can overheat and melt if the wire is too skinny). Then bad things happen, Solution use the proper wire gauge (AWG) and check for heating after charging for 1 hour.  

Warm is Ok, Hot like Coffee is not. 

SUGGESTION - Avoid lighted extension cords. They have very poor plug/receptacles

Here is the Guide - EV Charger vs Extension Cord Length

EV Charger   25' 50' 100'
12 Amps   AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG 12
16 Amps   AWG 14 AWG 12 AWG 10
25 Amps   AWG 12 AWG 10  
32 Amps   AWG 10  

How Much Current can my J1772 Cable Handle?

Generally the pins in the J1772 handle are all the same - 16A to 50A.  It is the wire size (AWG gauge) that makes a difference
Here is a table for a 25' long EV Charging (EVSE) Cord. You will notice that the power loss is very small when compared to the power delivered.  You do have to check the temperature of the cord and connectors after charging for 1 hour.  Warm is Ok, Hot like Coffee is not. 
Table - J1772 Max Load vs Cord AWG
Cord Max Amps Volts Watts Loss (W)
AWG 18 12A 120 1,440 46
AWG 16 16A 240 3,840 51
AWG 14 25A 240 6,000 78
AWG 12 32A 240 7,680 82
AWG 10 40A 240 9,600 80
AWG 8 50A 240 12,000 80
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    David R Ahlgren, aka EVDOCTOR 4EARTH, #1 Expert on the Web

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