img
Charging Your EV: A Guide To Safe Extension Cord Selection
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional gasoline cars. In fact, global sales of electric vehicles reached 17.1 million units, marking an increase of 25% over the previous year.
However, developing an efficient and secure charging system is among the biggest challenges to owners of electric vehicles. Although home and public charging stations are preferred, an extension cord is required in certain situations, for example, when the charging cable isn’t long enough to reach an outlet.
The problem is that most homes use ordinary extension cords not built to handle the power loads needed to charge an electric car. This can lead to overheating, voltage drops, and, in extreme circumstances, an electrical fire. Thus, an extension cord with proper specifications is required to ensure efficiency and safety.
Let’s discuss key factors to consider when selecting an extension cord for an EV charger.
Understanding EV Charging Power Requirements
Understanding your vehicle's power requirements is essential when selecting an extension cord for EV charging.
Usually, most EV chargers work at varying power outputs, with home chargers at either a Level 1 or a Level 2 rate.
-
Level 1 extension cords for EV chargers use 120-voltage units that draw between 12 and 16 amperes, making them more compatible with typical household outlets.
-
In comparison, level 2 extension cords for EV chargers have an input power rating of 240 volts, drawing higher amounts of amperes between 16 and 50 amps. Thus, specialized charging units will be needed.
That said, extension cords can be used in some situations for Level 1 charging but not for Level 2 charging because they use more power.
Choosing the Right Extension Cord for EV Charging
The EV extension cord selection process involves considering several factors, such as gauge, length, amp rating, insulation rating, and outdoor durability. All these factors play a vital part in efficient charging and safety.
1. Gauge of the Cord
The gauge, or thickness, of an EV charger extension cord determines its ability to handle the electrical current. A lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire, which can carry more electricity with minimal resistance.
For charging an EV, an extension cord rated to handle heavy loads with a gauge rating of not less than 10 AWG (American Wire Gauge) is advisable, while an 8 AWG is better for greater power loads.
Charging an EV with a lighter cord, e.g., 14 or 16 AWG, can cause overheating and is dangerous because these cables can't support the continuous power supply an EV charger draws.
2. Amperage Rating
Each extension cord has an amperage rating that determines how much current can safely travel through it. Since most Level 1 charging units draw between 12 and 16 amps, an extension cord should have an equal or greater rating.
It is recommended to have an extension cord rated to 20 amps to have an added safety cushion to prevent overheating. If an extension cord is not rated properly in amperage, over time, it can become an overheating fire hazard.
3. Outdoor Rating
Most owners plug in outdoors with an extension cord rated to withstand outdoor conditions. This outdoor extension cord is rated to endure moisture, UV sunlight, and harsh temperatures. Check cords with "SJTW" or "STW" stamps to determine that they can be used outdoors.
Such cords have tough insulation to prevent water penetration and withstand outdoor threats to charge safely in rainy or snow conditions. They, therefore, make the safest extension cord for your electric vehicle.
Safety Features to Look For in an Extension Cord
1. Heat-resistant Insulation
Due to the constant flow in charging an electric car, overheating is always a concern. Heat-resistant insulation should be included in an extension cord to prevent melting or deterioration over time.
Heavy-duty rubber or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is an appropriate material for use in an extension cord because it can endure continuous use.
2. Weatherproof Design
Ideally, an extension cord designed for outdoor charging must endure harsh weather conditions. With a weatherproof build, it stays protected from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in any environment.
Rugged material used in insulation protects against short-circuiting and moisture damage. Using an outdoor cord provides reliable performance in various environmental conditions.
3. Grounded Plug with Three Prongs
The three-pronged plug is required to ground an EV charger safely. The third plug supplies ground connections to prevent electric shock injuries while ensuring a stable power supply.
In addition, never use an extension cord with a two-prong plug because these have no ground connection and can be an immense safety threat.
Likewise, a grounded plug must match an EV charger with a stable power supply through an appropriate electric connection.
4. Heavy-duty Construction
A durable extension cord with a heavy-duty design offers durability and strength to withstand physical stress.
Also, reinforced connectors, insulation, and robust material increase core strength. Moreover, repeated handling, folding over, and outdoor exposure in an adequately built cord do not affect performance or safety.
Arguably, using a cord with a robust design eliminates premature deterioration and offers reliability over extended use, making it the best extension cord for EV charging.
Charging Your EV Safely with the Right Extension Cord
Charging an EV using an EV charger extension cable requires careful attention to power requirements, cord rating, and required safety factors. Moreover, selecting an appropriate extension cord offers efficient power transfer, reduces overheating possibility, and improves overall charging safety. Gauge, cord length, amp rating, insulation rating, and outdoor durability are just a few factors that have an imperative role to play in finding an appropriate cord.