What is the best extension cord for an electric car?
This article provides the answers.
Hybrids and electric (EV) cars have been around for quite a few years. EV technology has improved, making them a more attractive choice for many consumers.
The idea of not having to fill up at the pump or fill up as often is the main reason why many choose EV cars.
However, there are a few points of confusion when it comes to what is the best extension cord for charging electric car batteries.
Can you use a regular extension cord or do you need something specialised?
This article will not only provide you with the best choices but also provide insight into what you should consider when buying the an extension cord so that you can make the right choice.
Extension Cord for Electric Car – Top Picks:
BESENERGY EV Charger Extension Cable
Functionality and style
ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger
Premium home charger
Camco Heavy-Duty Extension Cord
Best value for money
Jump to the cord type that best suits your needs:
Extension Cord for EV Charger – Reviews
One of the most common questions that we hear about EV cars is whether you can use a regular household extension cord to charge it.
The answer to that is yes and no.
Technically, you can, but it is not a good idea for reasons that will be explained later in this article. Your best option is a cord that is made for charging your car that has the length you require.
So, let’s take a look at some of the best extension cords for charging an electric car below:
Best J1772 Cords
The J1772 cord is considered the best extension cord for charging electric car batteries. This type is recommended when charging your car at a charging station.
Fast chargers and charging stations deliver a lot of current. Therefreo, a J1772 cord is made from heavy-duty wire that is of a proper grade to take the current flowing through it safely.
Here are our top five J1772 extension cords for charging your electric car.
1. Morec J1772 20 ft. EV Extension Cable
High quality and good length
PROS
CONS
Summary
This cord is an excellent choice because it is long. At 20 feet, you can reach your power outlet even if it is across the garage.
It is made from high-strength, flexible ABS materials that resist damage from bending. The wire is silver plated for better conductivity and to help prevent overheating.
It is SAE rated for 40 Amps at 250 Volts. This is hits the highest numbers for almost any charging cable.
It has a dust cover to keep the connectors clean when not in use.
Specifications:
- 20 foot length
- 40 Amps
- 250 Volts
2. PRIMECOM 20 ft EV J1772 Charging Cable
Another good option with high amps
PROS
CONS
Summary
One of the things that we liked about this cable is that it is rated for a higher amperage than many others on the list.
This one also has a proximity detector that lets you make sure that you are plugged into the socket all the way.
The cable includes smart technology that allows the car and charger to communicate about how much current is needed. This is a protection, and it optimizes the charging time. It has five ports, and it has a ground wire. It is 20 feet long and has a durable, waterproof plug.
Key features:
- 14 foot length
- 32 Amps
- 240 Volts (according to a buyer but this is worth double checking this with the manufacturer)
3. BESENERGY EV Charger Extension Cable
Functionality and style
PROS
CONS
Summary
This high quality charger is made from strong ABS plastic so it handle heat very well. Furthermore, it uses a silver plating j1772 inlet which gives it greater conductivity and may prevent overheating.
This cable is both functional and stylish at an affordable price.
Key features:
- 20 foot length
- 16/32/40 Amps
- 220/240 Volts (depending on which Nema outlet you are using)
Best NEMA Extension Cord for EV Charger
You may be looking to not only extend your length but also get something that can be used as a fully functional charger or portable charger…
if yes, the following Nema chargers may be right for you.
These types are functional as completely portable charging cords (except the two charging stations) so you will get the length you need and you will not need a charging box already.
You should always make certain to check the voltage and amperage ratings of your car and the outlet to make sure they match. Please keep in mind that if you choose these types of cords, you must have a matching outlet available.
Here are a few of our favorite EV chargers with NEMA cords.
1. MUSTART Level 2 Portable EV Charger Nema 14-50
Length, portability and style
PROS
CONS
Summary
This one made our list because it is a Level 2 charger, which means that it is made for fast charging at a public charging station. It is also technically a portable charger but the length makes it functional as a longer alternative to what you may be currently using.
It is a 25-foot cable that is rated for 240 volts and 40 amps. It also has a NEMA 14-50 plug, too. This charger can complete the cycle 2.5 times faster than the more common 16 amp plugs. This means less waiting. It is compatible with a wide range of EVs and plug-in hybrids. You do need a 220 volt or 240 volt NEMA 15-50 outlet to plug it into. It is lightning-proof and has leakage, overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating protection.
Key features:
- 25 Foot length
- 26/32/40 Amp options
- 220/240 Volts
- NEMA 14-50
2. Megear Level 1 and 2 EV Charger NEMA 5-15
High quality and good length
PROS
CONS
Summary
Although this charger is not rated as a quick-charger, it was still faster than many. This charger can do Level 2 charging and has an adapter for doing Level 1 charging in your home.
It has a standard J1771 plug and the ability to charge your car using a standard NEMA 5-15 outlet. Furthermore, it is safety rated for lightning, leaks, overheating, overvoltage, and overcurrent protection.
It is also U94V-0 flame resistant. It has a control box and charging status lights, too. It is 28 feet long and will work on any EV or plug-in hybrid car.
Key features:
- Up to 28 foot length (if using adaptor)
- 16 Amps
- 120/240 Volts (depending on which Nema outlet you are using)
- NEMA 5-15
3. Morec Level 2 EV Charger with NEMA 6-20 end
Sleek, portable and fast
PROS
CONS
Summary
This is one of the few chargers that connect with a NEMA 6-20 outlet.
A NEMA 6-20 outlet is a standard three-prong wall plug that is found in many homes. It will work on most EV and plug-in hybrids, and it meets SAE J1772 standards for use with electric cars.
It is portable and is made from flexible, strong ABS plastic on the outside. It can be used on outlets from 220-240 volts. It also has silver-plated pins for extra durability and better conductivity.
Key features:
- 26 foot length
- 16 Amps
- 220-240 Volts
- NEMA 6-20
4. Morec 32 Amp Level 2 EV Charger NEMA 15-50
Next generation performance monitoring
PROS
CONS
Summary
This choice is compatible with most electric cars. It has a NEMA 15-50 plug that charges up to six times faster than other chargers.
This fast charger is 26 feet long, which allows you many options for locating an available outlet. It has a big LCD screen that allows you to see the charging progress. It is durable and has a waterproof rating of IP66.
It also meets the requirements of the J1772 standard.
Key features:
- 26 foot length
- 32 Amps
- 220-240 Volts
- NEMA 15-50
5. BESENERGY 32 Amp EV Charger Level 2, NEMA14-50
Safe and reliable
PROS
CONS
Summary
This NEMA 15-50 charger is an excellent choice for fast-charging and it can charge up to five times faster than most stock chargers.
It meets both US and German safety protocols. It is flame resistant and waterproof. It also has built-in protection from lightning, overcurrent, overvoltage, overcurrent, and it has charging status indicators.
This one has a data screen that shows actual real-time anticipated charging time, amperage, voltage, and total kilowatt consumption. It has an intelligent chip that automatically makes adjustments while charging.
Key features:
- ~24 foot length
- 32 – 40 Amp options
- 220-240 Volts
- NEMA 15-50
Best NEMA EV Charging Stations
The following options are suitable as permanent home chargers. They are more pricy but worth looking at due to their smart functionality and energy saving attributes.
1. Chargepoint Level 2 Home Charger
Premium home charger
PROS
CONS
Summary
This charger is one of the fastest home chargers that we found. It charges up to nine times faster than the original plug that came with the vehicle.
It works with most electric and plug-in hybrid models. The only drawback is that you might have to have an electrician install a NEMA 6-50 or 14-50 outlet if you do not have either of those options.
This one is also Energy Star rated for efficiency and lower electric bills. It has smart technology that monitors electric rates and can be set to only charge when the rates are cheapest. Compatible with Alexa if you are into the idea of voice controlling your unit.
Key features:
- Up to 50 Amps
- 240 Volts
- NEMA 6-50 or 14-50
2. JuiceBox 32 Smart Charging Station
Next Generation EV charging
PROS
CONS
Summary
This charger tells you just how far EV charging technology has come. It is rated for 32 – 40 amps (depending on which option you choose) and is Energy Star certified for efficiency.
It has Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to be notified by an app that charging is complete. You can also control the charging remotely using this app.
It also works by using voice control using Amazon Echo and Alexa. You can also set reminders to charge so that you do not accidentally forget.
Key features:
- 32 – 40 Amps
- 240 Volts
- NEMA 14-50R
Best Heavy-Duty Extension Cords for EV Cars
Although the best type of extension cord for your EV car is one that meets the J1772 and NEMA standards, there are some regular heavy-duty extension cords that will work.
Just be sure to check the electrical specifications in your owner’s manual. Furthermore, check the the female plug to make sure it will fit with your current EV cord.
Here are some of the best regular extension cords for EV cars:
1. Camco 50 AMP 30′ Extension Cord
Best value
PROS
CONS
Summary
This extension cord is a heavy-duty cord that should be good to use with many EV cars. It is flexible and has a durable PVC covering to protect it.
It has both a male and female end is rated for up to 50 AMPS at 125/250 volts. It has a special grip handle to make the connection easier and to make inserting and removing easier.
It has a cord organizer and carrying strap to keep it neat and tidy. The cord is 30 feet long, so you can reach most outlets.
Key features:
- 15 and 30 foot options
- 50 Amps
- 125/250 Volts
- NEMA 14-50P male and NEMA 14-50R female
2. Leisure Cords 50 AMP 50-foot Power Cord
Budget pick
PROS
CONS
Summary
This cord is an essential that had to make the list. It is one of the few 50 AMP cords that was found, which was this long. It is 50 feet long and comes with a standard male adapter.
It also has a locking female adapter that will not be as likely to become disconnected accidentally. You can use to charge your EV car, and you can use it for your RV, camper, trailer, or other vehicles.
It is made from marine-grade outer material and has a green light to tell you when there is power. It has a watertight connector. It is made from heavy wires and flexible marine-grade cable. This cable was one of the best that we found in terms of safety.
Furthermore, the listing has many different options in terms of lengths and amps so you can customise to you requirements and affordability.
Key features:
- 15/25/30 foot options
- 30 and 50 Amps
- 125 Volts
- NEMA 14-50P male and NEMA SS2-50R female
3. Kohree 30 Amp RV Power Extension Cord 50 ft
Another great budget option
PROS
CONS
Summary
This is another thick, safe RV cable that can be used as an extension cable for you current EV cord. Has a grip hand and a cable organiser strap so this cable is easy to use and store.
Listing includes multiple adaptor options to fit your amp requirements. Made from quality materials to increase safety, conductivity and weather resistance.
Key features:
- 25 and 50 foot options
- 30 amps but there are adaptors for 50 amps
- 125 Volts
- NEMA 15-15P male and NEMA L5-30R female
Best extension cord for charging electric car – Buying Guide
As you can see, you now have a range of options available when it comes to the best extension cord for charging electric car batteries. Here are some of the things that you need to consider before making your purchasing decision.
Types of EV Plugs
J1772 is the standard for charging systems on EV and plug-in cars. It dictates the type and size of the wire, electrical capacity, and other safety elements.
NEMA stands for the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. They set the standard for different types of electrical connectors. The numbers at the end of the plug name give information about the connector.
EV Charging Connector Types Explained
The two types of EV charging connectors available are J1775 and various types of NEMA connectors. The most common NEMA connectors are NEMA 14-50 and NEMA 6-50.
The plug and outlet must match in order to work. They are specifically made with different ends so that you cannot accidentally plug an incompatible plug into the wrong outlet.
A NEMA 14-50 is the most common type of NEMA plug used to charge a 6 kiloWatt electric car. Many RV parks have these types of outlets available.
Every car will support a maximum charging rate. Going above this rating can damage your car, damage the electrical source, or potentially cause a fire. The maximum charging rate for your vehicle can be found in your owner’s manual.
A NEMA 6-50 plug is a heavy-duty cord and outlet. It has one prong that is bigger than the others so that it cannot be plugged into a NEMA 14-50 outlet, which could cause a fire. This type of plug is most typically found on fast-chargers because it can take higher loads of amps and current.
The J1772 is a standard, and when cords use this name in their title, they are indicating that their cord meets that standard. Some NEMA cords meet the J1772 standard for use in electric cars, but not all of them do.
It is important to follow the recommendations in your owner’s manual before purchasing and using any type of charger in your car. You can then choose the best extension cord for charging electric car from our list that is compatible with your vehicle.
Is it bad to charge an electric car with an extension cord?
According to a recent survey of 1,500 electric car owners in Great Britain, it was found that nearly 75% of them has admitted to using a standard household extension cord to charge their electric cars. In the UK, homes use a 230-volt power feed, but in the US, outlets are only 110-volt.
With the lower voltage, it would seem that it would be safer to charge it using a US outlet. However, this means that many of the standard extension cords are only designed to take lower voltage, which can increase the risk of fire. While it will work and might be the only alternative available when you are visiting someone else’s home, it is not recommended.
An electric car uses a continuous load to charge. It is always recommended that you never exceed more than 80% of the load ratings on the wire. These ratings are dependent on the diameter and metal composition of the wire.
When in doubt, it is always best to avoid it and use a cord and outlet that are rated for electric cars. Fire, or potentially damaging your car or home, is not worth the risk. Regardless of the extension cord type, you should never use one that is frayed or damaged in any way.
FAQs about the best extension cord for charging electric car
Here are a few common questions that many people have about charging their electric cars.
Can I use an extension cord with my EV charger?
It is recommended that you only use a charger designed for your electric car. If you do choose to use a standard extension cord, only do so if you have the technical knowledge to determine if it is safe to do so. Otherwise, you could risk a fire.
Do electric cars make your electric bill go up?
An electric car is just like any other appliance. When it is plugged in and charging, it is using electricity. To help cut down on the increase in your electric bill, purchasing an Energy Star rated charging cord can help.
Can you charge an EV in the rain?
You can only charge your EV in the rain if you have a charging cord that is rated to do so. Most standard household cords rated for indoor use are not waterproof. You need to make sure the cord is waterproof before you use it in the rain.
Can I plug my electric car into a regular outlet?
You can only do this if both the outlet and your cord are compatible. This goes beyond having an end that will fit. You need to sure that they are both rated for the amperage and voltage required for your car.
An extension cord for EV charger outlets is made specifically for this purpose, but not all of them can do this. When choosing an extension cord for electric car batteries, it is always best to read the owner’s manual first.
Should I charge my electric car every night?
The answer to this question depends on the type of battery that your car uses. The answer is different for every make and model. The best source of information to answer this question is your car’s owner’s manual.
Level 1 vs level 2 charging…What is the difference?
Put quickly and simple, level 1 charging is slower than level 2 charging. Not all chargers have the capacity for level two charging so be sure to check this is speed is important to you.
Conclusion
Now, hopefully, you have a better understanding of the best extension cord for charging electric car batteries and the types of EV and plug-in car chargers that are available. You also have knowledge about why you need to be cautious when selecting and using a car charger.
The chargers in this review are all excellent choices, but not all of them might be appropriate for your specific EV car. Therefore, do an appropriate amount of research to gauge compatibility and when in doubt, consult your owner’s manual.