Does the Gen 3 HPWC require a blade disconnect / shut-off switch?

[holeydonut]

I don't currently own a Tesla, but I plan on a CT down the road. I was trying to get a few quotes to get a Gen 3 HPWC (one that I already have purchased) installed in my home.

I got two quotes from local Northern California electricians that say they require a blade disconnect (like the one in my avatar pic) is placed within "line of sight" of the HPWC. Is this true? I see pictures of people's chargers all the time, and I don't see a blade disconnect nearby.

The quotes are borderline nutty; two electricians are hitting me with the "Tesla Tax" even though I don't actually own a Tesla and wanting about $2,800 for the work. They cite the blade disconnect as one of the highly expensive surprises I have to contend with for a Gen 3 HWPC. I don't need a new sub-panel and the conduit run is about 8 feet. The panel that the 60A breaker would go into is on the outside of the common garage wall that will hold the HPWC.

I already have 3 blade disconnects on my garage wall (one for each Powerwall). So all these blade disconnects are getting absolutely STUPID.

 

[brkaus]

NEC says 60a or over needs a disconnect if I recall correctly. Or perhaps it was just over 60a. Going to of course depend on your local jurisdiction too.

 

[Rocky_H]

I got two quotes from local Northern California electricians that say they require a blade disconnect (like the one in my avatar pic) is placed within "line of sight" of the HPWC. Is this true? I see pictures of people's chargers all the time, and I don't see a blade disconnect nearby.

Nope, I am fairly certain that is not true. This has been discussed in several previous threads, and the requirement is only if the circuit is GREATER than 60A. Interestingly, the Canadian Electric Code does say at 60A or greater.

And even beyond that, the requirements for "a disconnecting means" does not mean it must be that separate box with a throw switch. As long as the breaker for the circuit is accessible, like not in a locked building or requiring you to get a ladder or something, that qualifies as the "disconnecting means".

Here are some threads about it:

Tesla requires 60A Disconnect switch w/charger?

I had to sign up for an account, since the information here was...incorrect... Gen 3 wall connect chargers are pulled from a 60 amp breaker. The breaker size determines the circuit size, not the connected load. NEC 625.43 - circuits rated more than 60 amps must have a disconnecting means. So...

teslamotorsclub.com

Tesla requires 60A Disconnect switch w/charger?

I received a quote from a Tesla authorized installer today and he said Tesla requires a 60A disconnect switch within 5’ of the home charger? Is this true? The reason I ask is it added $425.00 to the quote (not including the charger) vs just going with just a 50A and a NEMA 14/50 plug.

teslamotorsclub.com

Disconnecting Means

Being an EV person, I have been asked to consult with adding EV charging to a new community center in my town. We are installing conduit from the electrical room to 4 spaces in the parking lot. For a cost effective, general solution, we will probably install one of the ClipperCreek Dual...

teslamotorsclub.com

Are you using a disconnect for your Wall charger ?

Just wondering if people generally get a disconnect for a wall charger. Code probably varies across US. In case anyone has experience in NW suburbs of Chicago I...

teslamotorsclub.com