We often hear that not everything’s about the length. But let’s face it - sometimes, it is. This is often true for home EV chargers that don’t have a long enough charging cable for your unique needs. So, the main question of this article is:
Is it possible to use an extension cord for the EV charger? The short answer is - yes; and this article will provide tips for safe use, and clear out why you probably shouldn’t be doing it.
We’ll also address why using a conventional extension cord for the EV charger, something that numerous EV owners still ponder on doing, is a really bad idea.
But first, let’s do some demystifying.
Are you new to the concept of electric vehicles and are now wondering What Is an EV Charger?
An EV charger is a device used to charge cars that use batteries instead of petrol to power their engines. At its most basic, an EV charger draws an electrical current from 240v power and distributes it to the car, just like any other appliance or gadget charged by connecting to a wall.
No. There are substantial technological differences between an EV charging extension cable and a standard extension cord. An extension cable for electric cars is a form of EV wire designed to expand the range of a tethered EV charger and it is built differently compared to a conventional extension cord that is used for home appliances.
Extension cords are often not designed to carry the high and sustained current required for long-term EV charging. Carrying these heavy loads for extended periods of time can result in problems like overheating or electrical fires.
Which brings us to…
The number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road is increasing by the day, and with it, the need for flexible and reliable charging solutions grows as well. Aside from having a streamlined option for public EV charging like OVO Charge Powered by Bonnet, numerous EV owners also like to have an option and the convenience of charging their EV at home.
Whether you have a driveway, private off-street parking, or a full-on garage, setting up a dedicated and user-friendly home charging station is an important task.
Now, those who are doing just that often face the problem of insufficient length of their EV charging station. There is also a certain portion of EV owners who use, or are still wondering if they can use, a conventional extension cord for an EV charger.
So, though it IS possible to charge an EV using a conventional extension wire hooked into a conventional 3-pin outlet at home, the real question is: should you?
Right off the bat, we will say that we DO NOT recommend it. There are simply too many potential hazards that could happen, like overheating, fried outlets, and numerous electrical problems that could result in full-blown fires that could ruin your entire home or building.
Only consider using a conventional extension cord for an EV charger in case of emergencies, and make sure your EV is charged while you can oversee the process at all times rather than overnight.
That being said, we highly recommend that you NEVER charge your EV with a household extension cord. It is dangerous and fraught with risks and may affect the warranty of an EV charger or even your beloved electric vehicle.
As you can see, the risks outweigh the perks. Patience and planning ahead are the main virtues here.
Using an extension cable to charge an electric vehicle might also result in a loss of energy.
An extension cable's higher internal resistance might cause a drop in voltage, leading to insufficient amounts of energy being delivered to your EV’s battery. This means that your EV’s battery will so charge more slowly and inefficiently.
The quantity of energy wasted varies according to numerous factors, including the following:
For example, charging a 60kWh EV battery with a residential 2.4kW outlet takes more than 24 hours. In comparison, a 7kW EV home charger is around three times faster and far safer. Because it takes so much longer with a 3-pin outlet than a dedicated EV charger, the danger of overheating is multiplied because you may have to leave an extension wire and the electric car charging unattended overnight or while you're not at home.
If, however, you do choose to charge your EV with a domestic extension cord - even though we highly suggest against that practice - be sure to check the cable frequently and always monitor the charging process. If you notice any signs of cable overheating or potential damage to both the cable and the rest of the infrastructure (including your EV), stop the charging process immediately.
If you need to use a dedicated extension cable for your EV charger, here are some of the key tips to take into consideration.
This one might go without saying, but we’re including it anyway. Every time you’re working with electricity, safety should always be your top priority. Opt for an extension cord that is specifically built for EV charging and has appropriate safety certifications. These cords are made of heavy-duty materials and have safety features to withstand the high amperage and voltage associated with EV charging.
Make sure your extension cord is compatible with the EV charging ports in your area. It is paramount to know EV charger types and to check your vehicle's specifications before deciding which connector type is best for your charging needs.
Carefully measure the distance between your EV's charging port and a power outlet, and use this insight to choose an extension cord length that allows for flexibility. Also, make sure the cord is not too lengthy. Pay attention to the cord's gauge. Thicker gauges (lower numbers) can carry more current over longer distances while maintaining voltage.
We recommend charging cables ranging in length from 2 to 15 metres. Cables longer than 15 metres may result in charging failure. In this case, we recommend adjusting your electrical system so that you are closer to your EV's charging station.
Check the amperage rating of your vehicle's onboard charger and extension cord. The extension cord's amperage rating should match or surpass that of the vehicle's onboard charger. Using a lower-rated extension cord can lead to overheating, decreased charging efficiency, and potential damage to both the cord and your EV’s charging system.
If your charging station is outside or in uncontrolled conditions, be sure to get an extension cord for EV charger that has weather-resistant characteristics like strong insulation and waterproof connectors. This ensures that charging occurs safely and consistently, regardless of weather conditions.
So, do we recommend using a conventional, domestic-grade extension cord for EV charger?
No. If possible, never use regular extension cables for EV charging purposes.
And, on the other hand, do we recommend using an adequate EV-grade extension cable?
Typically, we would suggest against this practice as well. We believe that in the long run, it is preferable to replace the tethered EV charger with an untethered EV charger and utilise a longer standard EV connection, as it is always a safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective long-term solution. For those who are new to EV charging, a tethered electric car charger includes a permanently attached EV wire, whereas an untethered EV charger (also known as 'socket only') does not.
Both tethered and untethered have their own benefits and pitfalls. One of the main pitfalls of a tethered EV charger is that it typically has a fixed length, with most tethered EV chargers featuring an EV cable that is less than 8 meters long, while 5 meters is more frequent. In reality, the popularity of untethered EV chargers has grown because the charging cable's length is not a constraint.
Your EV deserves the best solutions available on the market. So, if you need to use an extension cord for EV charger, be sure to purchase one of the highest quality and the one that best fits your EV charging station. Only then will you ensure a safe, efficient, and hassle-free charging experience for your electric vehicle.
You may confidently choose an extension cord that matches your EV charging requirements by taking into account elements like safety certifications, compatibility, length, gauge, ampere rating, and weather resistance. Remember that putting safety and quality first will provide peace of mind and extend the life of your EV charging infrastructure.
In the lively ecosystem of electric vehicles, the path to green mobility is distinguished by fascinating discoveries and emerging technologies. Finding the correct fit for your EV might be like finding a needle in a haystack, with various charging connector types like CHAdeMO, CCS, and Type 1 to Type 3 connectors, and even smart EV chargers to sort through. Add to that the difficulty of finding a compatible charging station that is available when you need it, and the chore becomes that much more of a hassle.
Enter OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, a game-changing service that is transforming the EV experience.
Our app eliminates the complications of charging connector types. This revolutionary technology provides a seamless solution, allowing users to connect to over 17 networks in numerous countries via a single straightforward interface. Drivers no longer have to manage multiple apps or subscriptions for various networks; OVO Charge streamlines it all.
One of our most distinctive features is "Boosts." These are special offers that save up to 15% on charging fees across partner networks. So, imagine driving into a station, knowing that you're not only charging your EV but also doing so in the most cost-effective method imaginable.
OVO Charge, powered by Bonnet, is designed with the user in mind, allowing you to:
…all from your smartphone
This degree of user-friendliness and control completely reduces range anxiety, and the guesswork involved in determining which charging port types are compatible with your vehicle.
Embrace the hassle-free future of EV charging with our app. Download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today and transform your EV charging powering experience. Make every travel easier with the confidence that comes from knowing you're only a tap away from a compatible charger tuned to your EV's exact requirements.
Yes. However, the EV extension cable must be of the appropriate technical specification (IP Rating etc.) and certification.
Yes, you can extend an EV wire with an extension cord. These wires can be as long as 15 metres and are compatible with both home and public chargers. Extension cables have varying power levels, so look for one that matches or exceeds your EV charger's rating.
The voltage transfer is restricted when an extension cord is connected to the charger. This setup will take considerably longer to charge your battery, as well as raise safety concerns.
When connecting the Mobile Connector, do not use an extension cord, multi-outlet adapter, multi-plug, converter plug, or power strip. Charging periods vary depending on the voltage and current available from the power outlet under various conditions.
No. A portable EV charger incorporates certain technical features to enable EV charging, in particular, a communication protocol. An EV extension cable does not. In other words, using an extension cord for EV charger is not recommended.
We often hear that not everything’s about the length. But let’s face it - sometimes, it is. This is often true for home EV chargers that don’t have a long enough charging cable for your unique needs. So, the main question of this article is:
Is it possible to use an extension cord for the EV charger? The short answer is - yes; and this article will provide tips for safe use, and clear out why you probably shouldn’t be doing it.
We’ll also address why using a conventional extension cord for the EV charger, something that numerous EV owners still ponder on doing, is a really bad idea.
But first, let’s do some demystifying.
Are you new to the concept of electric vehicles and are now wondering What Is an EV Charger?
An EV charger is a device used to charge cars that use batteries instead of petrol to power their engines. At its most basic, an EV charger draws an electrical current from 240v power and distributes it to the car, just like any other appliance or gadget charged by connecting to a wall.
No. There are substantial technological differences between an EV charging extension cable and a standard extension cord. An extension cable for electric cars is a form of EV wire designed to expand the range of a tethered EV charger and it is built differently compared to a conventional extension cord that is used for home appliances.
Extension cords are often not designed to carry the high and sustained current required for long-term EV charging. Carrying these heavy loads for extended periods of time can result in problems like overheating or electrical fires.
Which brings us to…
The number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road is increasing by the day, and with it, the need for flexible and reliable charging solutions grows as well. Aside from having a streamlined option for public EV charging like OVO Charge Powered by Bonnet, numerous EV owners also like to have an option and the convenience of charging their EV at home.
Whether you have a driveway, private off-street parking, or a full-on garage, setting up a dedicated and user-friendly home charging station is an important task.
Now, those who are doing just that often face the problem of insufficient length of their EV charging station. There is also a certain portion of EV owners who use, or are still wondering if they can use, a conventional extension cord for an EV charger.
So, though it IS possible to charge an EV using a conventional extension wire hooked into a conventional 3-pin outlet at home, the real question is: should you?
Right off the bat, we will say that we DO NOT recommend it. There are simply too many potential hazards that could happen, like overheating, fried outlets, and numerous electrical problems that could result in full-blown fires that could ruin your entire home or building.
Only consider using a conventional extension cord for an EV charger in case of emergencies, and make sure your EV is charged while you can oversee the process at all times rather than overnight.
That being said, we highly recommend that you NEVER charge your EV with a household extension cord. It is dangerous and fraught with risks and may affect the warranty of an EV charger or even your beloved electric vehicle.
As you can see, the risks outweigh the perks. Patience and planning ahead are the main virtues here.
Using an extension cable to charge an electric vehicle might also result in a loss of energy.
An extension cable's higher internal resistance might cause a drop in voltage, leading to insufficient amounts of energy being delivered to your EV’s battery. This means that your EV’s battery will so charge more slowly and inefficiently.
The quantity of energy wasted varies according to numerous factors, including the following:
For example, charging a 60kWh EV battery with a residential 2.4kW outlet takes more than 24 hours. In comparison, a 7kW EV home charger is around three times faster and far safer. Because it takes so much longer with a 3-pin outlet than a dedicated EV charger, the danger of overheating is multiplied because you may have to leave an extension wire and the electric car charging unattended overnight or while you're not at home.
If, however, you do choose to charge your EV with a domestic extension cord - even though we highly suggest against that practice - be sure to check the cable frequently and always monitor the charging process. If you notice any signs of cable overheating or potential damage to both the cable and the rest of the infrastructure (including your EV), stop the charging process immediately.
If you need to use a dedicated extension cable for your EV charger, here are some of the key tips to take into consideration.
This one might go without saying, but we’re including it anyway. Every time you’re working with electricity, safety should always be your top priority. Opt for an extension cord that is specifically built for EV charging and has appropriate safety certifications. These cords are made of heavy-duty materials and have safety features to withstand the high amperage and voltage associated with EV charging.
Make sure your extension cord is compatible with the EV charging ports in your area. It is paramount to know EV charger types and to check your vehicle's specifications before deciding which connector type is best for your charging needs.
Carefully measure the distance between your EV's charging port and a power outlet, and use this insight to choose an extension cord length that allows for flexibility. Also, make sure the cord is not too lengthy. Pay attention to the cord's gauge. Thicker gauges (lower numbers) can carry more current over longer distances while maintaining voltage.
We recommend charging cables ranging in length from 2 to 15 metres. Cables longer than 15 metres may result in charging failure. In this case, we recommend adjusting your electrical system so that you are closer to your EV's charging station.
Check the amperage rating of your vehicle's onboard charger and extension cord. The extension cord's amperage rating should match or surpass that of the vehicle's onboard charger. Using a lower-rated extension cord can lead to overheating, decreased charging efficiency, and potential damage to both the cord and your EV’s charging system.
If your charging station is outside or in uncontrolled conditions, be sure to get an extension cord for EV charger that has weather-resistant characteristics like strong insulation and waterproof connectors. This ensures that charging occurs safely and consistently, regardless of weather conditions.
So, do we recommend using a conventional, domestic-grade extension cord for EV charger?
No. If possible, never use regular extension cables for EV charging purposes.
And, on the other hand, do we recommend using an adequate EV-grade extension cable?
Typically, we would suggest against this practice as well. We believe that in the long run, it is preferable to replace the tethered EV charger with an untethered EV charger and utilise a longer standard EV connection, as it is always a safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective long-term solution. For those who are new to EV charging, a tethered electric car charger includes a permanently attached EV wire, whereas an untethered EV charger (also known as 'socket only') does not.
Both tethered and untethered have their own benefits and pitfalls. One of the main pitfalls of a tethered EV charger is that it typically has a fixed length, with most tethered EV chargers featuring an EV cable that is less than 8 meters long, while 5 meters is more frequent. In reality, the popularity of untethered EV chargers has grown because the charging cable's length is not a constraint.
Your EV deserves the best solutions available on the market. So, if you need to use an extension cord for EV charger, be sure to purchase one of the highest quality and the one that best fits your EV charging station. Only then will you ensure a safe, efficient, and hassle-free charging experience for your electric vehicle.
You may confidently choose an extension cord that matches your EV charging requirements by taking into account elements like safety certifications, compatibility, length, gauge, ampere rating, and weather resistance. Remember that putting safety and quality first will provide peace of mind and extend the life of your EV charging infrastructure.
In the lively ecosystem of electric vehicles, the path to green mobility is distinguished by fascinating discoveries and emerging technologies. Finding the correct fit for your EV might be like finding a needle in a haystack, with various charging connector types like CHAdeMO, CCS, and Type 1 to Type 3 connectors, and even smart EV chargers to sort through. Add to that the difficulty of finding a compatible charging station that is available when you need it, and the chore becomes that much more of a hassle.
Enter OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, a game-changing service that is transforming the EV experience.
Our app eliminates the complications of charging connector types. This revolutionary technology provides a seamless solution, allowing users to connect to over 17 networks in numerous countries via a single straightforward interface. Drivers no longer have to manage multiple apps or subscriptions for various networks; OVO Charge streamlines it all.
One of our most distinctive features is "Boosts." These are special offers that save up to 15% on charging fees across partner networks. So, imagine driving into a station, knowing that you're not only charging your EV but also doing so in the most cost-effective method imaginable.
OVO Charge, powered by Bonnet, is designed with the user in mind, allowing you to:
…all from your smartphone
This degree of user-friendliness and control completely reduces range anxiety, and the guesswork involved in determining which charging port types are compatible with your vehicle.
Embrace the hassle-free future of EV charging with our app. Download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today and transform your EV charging powering experience. Make every travel easier with the confidence that comes from knowing you're only a tap away from a compatible charger tuned to your EV's exact requirements.
We often hear that not everything’s about the length. But let’s face it - sometimes, it is. This is often true for home EV chargers that don’t have a long enough charging cable for your unique needs. So, the main question of this article is:
Is it possible to use an extension cord for the EV charger? The short answer is - yes; and this article will provide tips for safe use, and clear out why you probably shouldn’t be doing it.
We’ll also address why using a conventional extension cord for the EV charger, something that numerous EV owners still ponder on doing, is a really bad idea.
But first, let’s do some demystifying.
Are you new to the concept of electric vehicles and are now wondering What Is an EV Charger?
An EV charger is a device used to charge cars that use batteries instead of petrol to power their engines. At its most basic, an EV charger draws an electrical current from 240v power and distributes it to the car, just like any other appliance or gadget charged by connecting to a wall.
No. There are substantial technological differences between an EV charging extension cable and a standard extension cord. An extension cable for electric cars is a form of EV wire designed to expand the range of a tethered EV charger and it is built differently compared to a conventional extension cord that is used for home appliances.
Extension cords are often not designed to carry the high and sustained current required for long-term EV charging. Carrying these heavy loads for extended periods of time can result in problems like overheating or electrical fires.
Which brings us to…
The number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road is increasing by the day, and with it, the need for flexible and reliable charging solutions grows as well. Aside from having a streamlined option for public EV charging like OVO Charge Powered by Bonnet, numerous EV owners also like to have an option and the convenience of charging their EV at home.
Whether you have a driveway, private off-street parking, or a full-on garage, setting up a dedicated and user-friendly home charging station is an important task.
Now, those who are doing just that often face the problem of insufficient length of their EV charging station. There is also a certain portion of EV owners who use, or are still wondering if they can use, a conventional extension cord for an EV charger.
So, though it IS possible to charge an EV using a conventional extension wire hooked into a conventional 3-pin outlet at home, the real question is: should you?
Right off the bat, we will say that we DO NOT recommend it. There are simply too many potential hazards that could happen, like overheating, fried outlets, and numerous electrical problems that could result in full-blown fires that could ruin your entire home or building.
Only consider using a conventional extension cord for an EV charger in case of emergencies, and make sure your EV is charged while you can oversee the process at all times rather than overnight.
That being said, we highly recommend that you NEVER charge your EV with a household extension cord. It is dangerous and fraught with risks and may affect the warranty of an EV charger or even your beloved electric vehicle.
As you can see, the risks outweigh the perks. Patience and planning ahead are the main virtues here.
Using an extension cable to charge an electric vehicle might also result in a loss of energy.
An extension cable's higher internal resistance might cause a drop in voltage, leading to insufficient amounts of energy being delivered to your EV’s battery. This means that your EV’s battery will so charge more slowly and inefficiently.
The quantity of energy wasted varies according to numerous factors, including the following:
For example, charging a 60kWh EV battery with a residential 2.4kW outlet takes more than 24 hours. In comparison, a 7kW EV home charger is around three times faster and far safer. Because it takes so much longer with a 3-pin outlet than a dedicated EV charger, the danger of overheating is multiplied because you may have to leave an extension wire and the electric car charging unattended overnight or while you're not at home.
If, however, you do choose to charge your EV with a domestic extension cord - even though we highly suggest against that practice - be sure to check the cable frequently and always monitor the charging process. If you notice any signs of cable overheating or potential damage to both the cable and the rest of the infrastructure (including your EV), stop the charging process immediately.
If you need to use a dedicated extension cable for your EV charger, here are some of the key tips to take into consideration.
This one might go without saying, but we’re including it anyway. Every time you’re working with electricity, safety should always be your top priority. Opt for an extension cord that is specifically built for EV charging and has appropriate safety certifications. These cords are made of heavy-duty materials and have safety features to withstand the high amperage and voltage associated with EV charging.
Make sure your extension cord is compatible with the EV charging ports in your area. It is paramount to know EV charger types and to check your vehicle's specifications before deciding which connector type is best for your charging needs.
Carefully measure the distance between your EV's charging port and a power outlet, and use this insight to choose an extension cord length that allows for flexibility. Also, make sure the cord is not too lengthy. Pay attention to the cord's gauge. Thicker gauges (lower numbers) can carry more current over longer distances while maintaining voltage.
We recommend charging cables ranging in length from 2 to 15 metres. Cables longer than 15 metres may result in charging failure. In this case, we recommend adjusting your electrical system so that you are closer to your EV's charging station.
Check the amperage rating of your vehicle's onboard charger and extension cord. The extension cord's amperage rating should match or surpass that of the vehicle's onboard charger. Using a lower-rated extension cord can lead to overheating, decreased charging efficiency, and potential damage to both the cord and your EV’s charging system.
If your charging station is outside or in uncontrolled conditions, be sure to get an extension cord for EV charger that has weather-resistant characteristics like strong insulation and waterproof connectors. This ensures that charging occurs safely and consistently, regardless of weather conditions.
So, do we recommend using a conventional, domestic-grade extension cord for EV charger?
No. If possible, never use regular extension cables for EV charging purposes.
And, on the other hand, do we recommend using an adequate EV-grade extension cable?
Typically, we would suggest against this practice as well. We believe that in the long run, it is preferable to replace the tethered EV charger with an untethered EV charger and utilise a longer standard EV connection, as it is always a safer, more efficient, and more cost-effective long-term solution. For those who are new to EV charging, a tethered electric car charger includes a permanently attached EV wire, whereas an untethered EV charger (also known as 'socket only') does not.
Both tethered and untethered have their own benefits and pitfalls. One of the main pitfalls of a tethered EV charger is that it typically has a fixed length, with most tethered EV chargers featuring an EV cable that is less than 8 meters long, while 5 meters is more frequent. In reality, the popularity of untethered EV chargers has grown because the charging cable's length is not a constraint.
Your EV deserves the best solutions available on the market. So, if you need to use an extension cord for EV charger, be sure to purchase one of the highest quality and the one that best fits your EV charging station. Only then will you ensure a safe, efficient, and hassle-free charging experience for your electric vehicle.
You may confidently choose an extension cord that matches your EV charging requirements by taking into account elements like safety certifications, compatibility, length, gauge, ampere rating, and weather resistance. Remember that putting safety and quality first will provide peace of mind and extend the life of your EV charging infrastructure.
In the lively ecosystem of electric vehicles, the path to green mobility is distinguished by fascinating discoveries and emerging technologies. Finding the correct fit for your EV might be like finding a needle in a haystack, with various charging connector types like CHAdeMO, CCS, and Type 1 to Type 3 connectors, and even smart EV chargers to sort through. Add to that the difficulty of finding a compatible charging station that is available when you need it, and the chore becomes that much more of a hassle.
Enter OVO Charge powered by Bonnet, a game-changing service that is transforming the EV experience.
Our app eliminates the complications of charging connector types. This revolutionary technology provides a seamless solution, allowing users to connect to over 17 networks in numerous countries via a single straightforward interface. Drivers no longer have to manage multiple apps or subscriptions for various networks; OVO Charge streamlines it all.
One of our most distinctive features is "Boosts." These are special offers that save up to 15% on charging fees across partner networks. So, imagine driving into a station, knowing that you're not only charging your EV but also doing so in the most cost-effective method imaginable.
OVO Charge, powered by Bonnet, is designed with the user in mind, allowing you to:
…all from your smartphone
This degree of user-friendliness and control completely reduces range anxiety, and the guesswork involved in determining which charging port types are compatible with your vehicle.
Embrace the hassle-free future of EV charging with our app. Download OVO Charge powered by Bonnet today and transform your EV charging powering experience. Make every travel easier with the confidence that comes from knowing you're only a tap away from a compatible charger tuned to your EV's exact requirements.
Yes. However, the EV extension cable must be of the appropriate technical specification (IP Rating etc.) and certification.
Yes, you can extend an EV wire with an extension cord. These wires can be as long as 15 metres and are compatible with both home and public chargers. Extension cables have varying power levels, so look for one that matches or exceeds your EV charger's rating.
The voltage transfer is restricted when an extension cord is connected to the charger. This setup will take considerably longer to charge your battery, as well as raise safety concerns.
When connecting the Mobile Connector, do not use an extension cord, multi-outlet adapter, multi-plug, converter plug, or power strip. Charging periods vary depending on the voltage and current available from the power outlet under various conditions.
No. A portable EV charger incorporates certain technical features to enable EV charging, in particular, a communication protocol. An EV extension cable does not. In other words, using an extension cord for EV charger is not recommended.
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