I’m thinking about getting an EV, specifically a 2022 Kia Niro. Since I’m a renter and have my own driving habits, I plan to use just Level 1 charging. The nearest outdoor outlet to my driveway is about 40 feet away. Is this going to be an issue? I’m considering using an extension cord, but I’ve heard it might cause some efficiency loss. Also, this outlet is a covered box with four outlets. Two of them are already being used by our propane washer and dryer. Would charging an EV while those are running overload the system?
Use a heavy duty 10/3 extension cord and make sure none of it is coiled up. Check that the outlet isn’t worn and that the plug fits snugly. If it’s a 15 amp circuit, don’t use the dryer or washer at the same time as charging. If it’s 20 amps, it might still work, but it’s safer to avoid using them together. Level 1 charging typically draws 12 amps, so stick to the 80% rule, meaning no more than 4 amps for the washer/dryer.
@Luca
Using larger wire is better, but #10 is a bit much for 12 A. #12 works fine for longer cords, and #14 is okay for shorter ones.
Kiran said:
@Luca
Using larger wire is better, but #10 is a bit much for 12 A. #12 works fine for longer cords, and #14 is okay for shorter ones.
The price difference for a little extra safety is minor. Outdoor cords often get covered in debris, but if it’s well-protected, you shouldn’t have issues.
Kiran said:
@Luca
Using larger wire is better, but #10 is a bit much for 12 A. #12 works fine for longer cords, and #14 is okay for shorter ones.
The issues with #14 cords and EV charging aren’t about length. They can heat up more due to poor connections, which won’t happen with #12. Also, #14 cords might not be as durable at the ends.
@Luca
I can tell you that charging at 12A can trip a 15A breaker if laundry is running. If it’s 20A, you might get away with it, but it’s better to stop charging during laundry.
@Luca
Why should the extension cord not be coiled up?
Amari said:
@Luca
Why should the extension cord not be coiled up?
If the cord is coiled, it can’t cool properly. It can overheat and melt, which leads to shorts.
Using it is fine.
The last part is concerning. Sharing EV charging with the washer and dryer might cause problems.
Koa said:
The last part is concerning. Sharing EV charging with the washer and dryer might cause problems.
Can you explain a bit more? I’m aware that they all use quite a bit of power. It’s on a 20 amp breaker, and the dryer is propane, just running the tumble/timer.
@Ellison
What are the actual power draws from the gas dryer and washer? I see that the dryer might use 5-10A and the washer 5-15A. Even at the lower end, that doesn’t add up with a 12A EV charger.
My 2014 Leaf SV with the stock Nissan L1 EVSE wouldn’t work with any of our 12ga cords. So, results may vary. I used a short 3-foot 10ga extension cord for over a year. As for overloading, it could happen. Charging and running both laundry units at the same time probably won’t work.
Make sure your extension cord is rated for 20A and keep the connections dry.
Blair said:
Make sure your extension cord is rated for 20A and keep the connections dry.
Get a 12 gauge cord. It’s labeled for 15 A because of the plug and socket but can handle 20 A.
A 12/3 extension cord will work, but a 10/3 is nice too. Just avoid getting one that’s too long, like 75 or 100 feet. The longer it is, the more resistance and heat you’ll get.
I would be in a similar situation if I bought an EV. I would have to run an extension cord from my outlet to my patio to charge. My parking spot is right next to my patio, but I’m not sure if the building will allow it. They don’t even let us have barbecues.
Don’t worry about efficiency loss. Just make sure you get a heavy-duty extension cord, not one from your living room lamp. It should be rated for 1500 watts or more and keep it as short as possible. You might want a cable cover if it’s a tripping hazard. Charging on the same box while running the washer and dryer should be fine, like using a hair dryer or vacuum.
@Dustin
If all four outlets are on the same 15 A circuit, running L1 along with the washer and dryer might overload it. If it’s a 20 A circuit or separate ones, you should be fine.
You should be fine, just ensure the circuit isn’t shared with anything else. Also, get an extension cord rated for 20 amps or 2400 watts. 15 amp cords can heat up when used for long periods, especially in the summer, and might melt a bit.