Douglas Hall, Co-Founder of ePower offers up his expert advice about cable selection for your EV charger..
Key considerations in choosing an EV charging cable ⏬
1️⃣ Where are you using the cable?
– For home use, consider the distance from charger to the car (including the length down the wall). At home, a single phase cable, typically offering 7.4kw is ideal. It’s a pliable soft cable so great for everyday use.
– Make sure there is a safe distance (e.g not crossing front door) and needs to be coming straight down the wall at a safe angle, so don’t underestimate the length you may require. Our sales team will be well able to advise.
– Don’t play musical charge! Swapping the cars position just to charge is tiresome. If you’re a two EV household, a 10-15 metre cable can move more easily between providing charge for both.
– For Public charge on an AC charger, the best bet for your cable is three phase cable so three times faster (22kw).
2️⃣ Tethered vs Untethered
– Doug has observed many customers opting for tethered (where the cable is connected to the charger) over untethered (where the cable disconnects both from the charger and the charge point). Like anything, consider what works for you.
– A tethered cable length is 5m to 8m so ideal for any household with a driveway. An untethered cable can be more expensive but affords more flexibility in discreet appearance and assigned parking scenarios.
3️⃣ Cable Care
Basic things can ensure your cable functions at it’s best. Don’t let it get knotted, don’t drive on it, don’t stretch it like a washing line, make sure the weight of the cable is on the ground not in the air and always ensure you have one in the car – never be caught out.
4️⃣ How many cables should I have?
– For the most effective charging protocol. Single phase for home and three phase for public.
– The so called ‘granny cable’ offers an interim solution to get some charge in the event you’re caught short but this kind of cable should only go into the wall and never into extension lead for safety purposes.
5️⃣ What’s the story with cables in the rain?
When plugged in, cables are water resistant. However, when you unplug the pins need to be protected. Caps in our experience don’t fix the problem as they fill with water.
– The simplest solution is to position the plug facing down not up. A hook on the wall is useful in this case.
6️⃣ What should I do if we are away on holidays?
Well firstly, bring your three phase cable with you! If you’re leaving a cable at home, to avoid theft, check can you activate a security lock to stop it being taken or simply tidy away your charger until you’re back.
