HPWC Installed

[TomServo]

I just installed my WC (with a cord) and the install was super easy on an existing NEMA 14-50 outlet, wired a 50 amp appliance cord to it, and set the amps to 50. Charges at 9 kWh/40 amps @ 36 mph and I keep my NEMA 14-50 outlet.

I do wish the cord was longer than 18', where I originally had the outlet installed was based on a Clipper Creek EVSE that had a 24' cord. My parking is now limited. Oh well, first-world problems.

I am confused by one thing, the included Quickstart Guide indicated the LED lights correspond to the amperage settings, 5 LEDs = 60A, 4 LEDs = 50A etc. But when my unit is charging ALL 5 led's light up. The unit was successfully commissioned via WI-FI and set to 50A and the car's display shows it's pulling 40A/9 kWh @ 36 mph.

 

[Sophias_dad]

I think that lights-to-current display is only shown during commissioning or initial turn-on of the HPWC. Try holding the handle's button down for 5 seconds to get it back into commissioning mode and see if it shows the 4 LEDs you expect.

 

[TomServo]

BINGO. Thanks for the sanity check. This was bugging me thinking I didn’t commission it correctly.

 

[jcanoe]

Why did you replace the CC HCS-50?

 

[TomServo]

Why did you replace the CC HCS-50?

The guy that bought my Volt made me an offer I couldn't refuse. Right now many CC models are Out Of Stock. So I did the math and when all is said and done I'll be out $225. And I admit it, it's dammed sexy.

 

[jcanoe]

I refuse to deal with the ~18.5 ft charging cord.

 

[Sophias_dad]

done I'll be out $225

Is that AFTER the $150 federal tax credit?

 

[ATPMSD]

You can get a Tesla extension cord

NEW! Tesla Extension Cord – EVSE Adapters

www.evseadapters.com

Or a NEMA 14-50 extensio cord and relocate the Wall Connector

Amazon.com : nema 14-50 extension cord

 

[ATPMSD]

One more option, a 10-foot appliance cord

Robot or human?

 

[jcanoe]

You can get a Tesla extension cord

NEW! Tesla Extension Cord – EVSE Adapters

www.evseadapters.com

Or a NEMA 14-50 extensio cord and relocate the Wall Connector

Amazon.com : nema 14-50 extension cord

Not for $300.

 

[jcanoe]

One more option, a 10-foot appliance cord

Robot or human?

Not allowed by code. The ClipperCreek EVSE in question, the HCS series HCS-50, has a very short NEMA 14-50 power plug cord by design. The total length of the power plug cord including the molded plug is 12 inches.

 

[ATPMSD]

Not for $300.

It is actually $335 for the 10-foot cord. The $300 one is 19-feet but limited to 32 amps.

 

[gmetcalf18]

I just installed my WC (with a cord) and the install was super easy on an existing NEMA 14-50 outlet, wired a 50 amp appliance cord to it, and set the amps to 50. Charges at 9 kWh/40 amps @ 36 mph and I keep my NEMA 14-50 outlet.

I do wish the cord was longer than 18', where I originally had the outlet installed was based on a Clipper Creek EVSE that had a 24' cord. My parking is now limited. Oh well, first-world problems.

I am confused by one thing, the included Quickstart Guide indicated the LED lights correspond to the amperage settings, 5 LEDs = 60A, 4 LEDs = 50A etc. But when my unit is charging ALL 5 led's light up. The unit was successfully commissioned via WI-FI and set to 50A and the car's display shows it's pulling 40A/9 kWh @ 36 mph.

Are the 5 lights constantly on or just during the first couple minutes? I had mine installed but I don't have the car yet. From my understanding I set it up properly for 60amps and it's on a 60 amp breaker but it's currently only showing one light, but during configuration I did have all 5

 

[ATPMSD]

Not allowed by code

I am not an electrician so I cannot debate you on code but I note many high power devices, such as welders, have some pretty long cords. Also it sounds like the OP installed a TWC and instead of hard-wiring used a short 14-50 appliance cord.

 

[Rocky_H]

I am not an electrician so I cannot debate you on code but I note many high power devices, such as welders, have some pretty long cords.

The 12 inches rule is specifically about EVSEs.

 

[jcanoe]

I am not an electrician so I cannot debate you on code but I note many high power devices, such as welders, have some pretty long cords. Also it sounds like the OP installed a TWC and instead of hard-wiring used a short 14-50 appliance cord.

It has been previously noted that if the manufacturer does not provide a power plug for their electrical equipment the electrical code does not allow the equipment to be fitted with a plug.

 

[ATPMSD]

So “technically” the OP’s installation is not to code anyway, right?

 

[jcanoe]

Just looking at how an electric range/oven with a 14-50 power plug is used this is very different from an EVSE application.

The electric range may operate up to 4 burners; typically not all burners are in use at the same time and not set to the highest heat. The oven/broiler when turned on will reach a set temperature and then the thermostat will cycle the heating elements on and off.

The EVSE will draw the maximum current from the circuit for the duration of the charging period that could last more than 8 hours.

 

[TomServo]

Is that AFTER the $150 federal tax credit?

I calculated that into my numbers.

 

[TomServo]

So “technically” the OP’s installation is not to code anyway, right?

Interesting discussion, I will check with my electrician and see what the local code says. The initial installation passed inspection as it was installed by our builder and specifically identified as an "Electric Vehicle" power source. No mention was made of pigtail length. I measured mine and come up with about 24 inches.

But how is this different from folks using extension cords to connect an EVSE?

Appreciate the comments.