About the NEMA 14-50R
NEMA 14-50 outlet installations have become popular due to meeting the high-power output capabilities that a Level 2 Charger requires. That said, there are some important things to consider if you are thinking about installing a NEMA 14-50 outlet and Level 2 charger in your home.
NEMA stands for the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, which is the organization responsible for standardizing electrical equipment in the United States.
Not all NEMA 14-50 outlets are created equal.
The NEMA 14-50 that is used to power your oven, dryer, and other household appliances is not built for the higher throughput and sustained connection that a Level 2 home EV battery charger requires. Because of this, we STRONGLY encourage anyone installing a NEMA 14-50R in their own home to use the industrial version.
Industrial NEMA 14-50R outlets are built of more durable thermoplastic, offering superior heat and fire protection. They are also typically equipped with heavy-gauge, double-wire copper alloy contacts, where household applications may use aluminum.
These outlets are designed for the same sustained use that a L2 home EV charger requires, as they typically conduct power for factory equipment and industrial machines which are designed to run continuously.
Simply put: industrial NEMA 14-50R outlets are much safer to use with your L2 home charger than a conventional household NEMA 14-50R outlet. Popular choices are available from Hubbell, Enerlites, Eaton and Leviton, for which we have provided a guide below.
Top-rated Industrial NEMA 14-50R outlets on Amazon
Technical Details
The NEMA 14-50R outlet is a 4-prong, 50-amp, 125/250-volt electrical receptacle that is commonly used for high-power applications.
- Voltage: Single phase, 208-250 volt AC supply, 60 hertz
- Circuit Breaker Amperage: 50A
- Operating Current: 32A
- Prongs: 4 (two hot, one neutral, one ground)
- Design: A round or oval face, designed to accommodate a matching NEMA 14-50 plug.
- Conductors: 6 AWG, Copper Wire Only.
- Upsize wiring for installations over 150 feet
- Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter: Available
- GFCI is recommended for L2 Chargers
- Ventilation: Not required
- Outdoors: Install with NEMA 3R Rainproof Enclosure (Amazon)
Advantages
- Faster Charging: A NEMA 14-50 can significantly speed up the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle, often allowing EV owners to fully charge while they sleep. It is not uncommon to expect 20-40 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Convenience: Home installation of a Level 2 charger means never having to wait at a charging station again.
- Cost-Effective: Home electricity rates are often lower than public fast-charging rates, and charging during off-peak hours typically means a lower rate per kwh.
Top-Rated NEMA 14-50R Outlets on Amazon
NEMA 14-50R Outlet Manufacturers
| Manufacturer / Part # | Price | Wire Info | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leviton #279-500 | $ | Type: AL-CU Entry: Rear Attachment: Screw AWG #10-#4 Contacts: Steel | Meant for appliances Depth: 40mm Made in Mexico |
| Enerlites #66500 | $$ | Type: CU Entry: Bottom Attachment: Screw AWG #8-#4 Contacts: Brass | Meant for appliances Depth: 55mm Made in China |
| Eaton #WD1212 | $$ | Type: AL-CU Entry: Back/Bottom Attachment: Screw AWG #10-#4 Contacts: Steel | Meant for industrial applications Depth: 54mm Made in Mexico |
| Hubbell #HBL9450A | $$$$ | Type: AL-CU Entry: Bottom Attachment: Clamp AWG #10-#4 Contacts: Brass | Meant for industrial applications Depth: 63mm Made in USA |
NEMA 14-50R Outlet Installation
- Location: Ideally, the NEMA 14-50 outlet will be installed in a garage or a location close to where the vehicle will be parked, and within reach of the charger.
- Circuit Breaker: A home EV charger requiring a NEMA 14-50 Outlet typically needs a dedicated 50-amp circuit breaker.
- Professional Installation: Given the high power levels and safety concerns, it is advised to let a certified electrician handle the installation of your NEMA 14-50R.
- Outdoor Installations: It is recommended to use the NEMA 3R Rainproof Enclosure for the NEMA 14-50R outlet.
NEMA 14-50 Limitations & Considerations
- Compatibility: Ensure your EV and Level 2 charger can make use of the NEMA 14-50 outlet – some EVs and PHEVs only have L1 charging.
- Level 2 Chargers (Amazon)
- Home vs Industrial Outlets: Home outlets such as those that power your dryer are designed to work in shorter intervals and typically use less power.
- Industrial NEMA 14-50R Outlet (Amazon)
- Cable Length: The cable from your home charger should be long enough to reach your vehicle. Be sure to keep it out of the walking path to avoid tripping.
- Heavy-gauge NEMA 14-50R extension cord (Amazon)
- Cost: Installation costs can vary depending on the complexity and whether your home’s electrical system needs an upgrade.
- Code: Be sure your electrical wiring and outlets are all up to local municipal code.
Future-Proofing
While a NEMA 14-50 supports powerful L2 chargers, some newer EVs and charging systems may require or benefit from even higher-power connections. Level 3 home chargers are emerging on the market. Consider the long-term needs of your charging habits when spending the money to wire your home.
Final Thoughts
A NEMA 14-50 outlet offers a robust solution for home L2 EV charging. That said, professional installation is necessary to ensure safe and efficient operation.
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