Mark Z
Active Member
I don't have a reference. That is why I mentioned, "IF another EVSE is designed for a power supply cord to be installed by the electrician." The word "IF" was there because of the confusion of the 6 foot length being mentioned. There are manufacturers photos on the web of EVSE that appear to have power supply cords that are longer than 12", so I assumed that those devices must have been installed by an electrician. I have removed the language from my original post.From a building and installation standpoint, what is important is what's in the NEC. 625.17(A)(3)(a) states that if the GFCI protection for the EVSE is located in the unit itself, the maximum cord length is 12 inches. 625.17(A)(3)(b) grants up to 6 feet only "when the interrupting device of the personnel protection system is located at the attachment plug or within the first 300 mm (12 in.) of the cord". There is no exemption for EVSE's "designed for a power supply cord to be installed by the electrician" - if you have a reference I'd like to look at it.
For those who install a custom outlet at the appropriate location for their unique EVSE, the 12" power supply cord works fine. Hardwire installs eliminate my power supply cord wish list below.
IMHO, the use of an existing outlet may require a longer power supply cord depending on the design of the EVSE and the outlet location. Hopefully a future amendment would suggest that the EVSE is mounted within 12" of the outlet for personal safety, allowing a custom length power supply cord with an over molded plug and the use of a liquid tight non-metallic strain relief at the EVSE. This could help prevent the use of adapters and extension cords that are sold on the web and defeat the purpose of the code requirements.
My personal opinion is that the existing code does not properly address the issue of uncovered 240 volt outlets with a power supply cord attached from above. The EVSE 240 volt outlets with closed covers that allow the cable to exit the bottom of the cover while closed are a good safety feature. That could be a life saver if someone is hosing the garage floor. Such an outlet may require a longer power supply cord to allow proper EVSE installation height without excessive bending of the power supply cord.
Hopefully this thread and FlasherZ's excellent reference work (link: HERE) will encourage EV drivers to contact an electrician experienced with Tesla EVSE installs in their area to provide guidance and installation excellence. A properly installed Tesla Wall Connector gives faster charging and saves time connecting and disconnecting the charge handle.
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