Charging EV with no home charger… is this setup ok?

Hey everyone,

I’m expecting my new MG4 LR next month (I’m in the UK) but I don’t plan on installing a home charger for now. I’ve been looking into charging via a standard three-pin socket, and I was wondering if a 2.5mm 24 Amp non-coiled extension lead would be suitable for this?

Here’s what I’ve gathered so far:

  • Don’t use a reel extension cable
  • Don’t use a coiled extension cable
  • Use a Dri-box for rainy days
  • The extension lead should have an RCD breaker to prevent shocks from water
  • The socket should be on a ring main circuit
  • RCBO breakers in the fuse board are essential
  • Type 2 cable recommended

Am I missing anything? Any extra tips you all can offer would be appreciated!

Thanks!

I wouldn’t rely on an extension cord as a long-term solution. They aren’t really designed to handle that constant load safely over time.

I agree, extension leads aren’t the best for EV charging. Have you thought about installing a commando socket instead? You could use a CEE to Type 2 cable for a safer setup.

I bought an extension lead from https://toughleads.co.uk/ and so far, it’s been solid. It comes with a good waterproof box that fits larger plugs, and the cable is really heavy-duty.

It’s been cool to the touch, even after a full charge. My house has modern plugs, around 10 years old, and everything stays cool, no heating issues. YMMV though.

@Nathan
If you’re worried about heat or the cable length, MG4 lets you reduce the power it pulls while charging. Here’s a video showing how to do that: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdWJ-0EH6Ac (at 0:34).

This can help lower the strain on the cable, though it will take longer to charge. I love my MG4, but I’ll be getting a proper charger installed soon.

Hope you enjoy your new MG4!

@Nathan
Just remember, the car forgets this lower power setting every time you unplug, so you’ll have to reset it each time you start charging again.

There’s a big gap between ‘best practice’ and ‘what will probably not set your house on fire’. Charging an EV pulls a lot of power continuously, which is different from most other appliances at home. That’s why extension cables need to be derated for continuous loads, especially if they’re coiled, since they have less cooling.

Connections are important too. Something like a poor socket connection might only get warm with your kettle, but under continuous EV charging, it can get much hotter over time. Be careful.

Looks like you’ve got it mostly covered. Keeping the granny charger in the dry box is a good idea, but since it’s waterproof anyway, you don’t need to worry too much. I would also suggest replacing the socket with a new one, preferably one that’s rated for EV charging (you can get them at Screwfix).

I’ve been charging my EV with a 3-pin for a few years now, but if you’re using an extension lead regularly, I’d definitely recommend getting an outdoor socket installed by an electrician instead.