User: pdmtn, Location: chattanoogaTN signal mountain
Asked on: Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 6:05 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:11 am EDT
Question: Art 625 NEC 2008 requires a disconnect on Level 2 & 3 Car chargers if over 60 ampDoes anyone have any thoughts as to why this requirement for a disconnect is notincluded for 240 or 480 volts chargers less than 60 amps . Is it only common senseto have a disconnect on all hardwired unitsThanks for your thoughts
The requirement for a disconnect on Level 2 & 3 Car chargers over 60 amps in NEC 2008 Art 625 is likely due to the increased potential for electrical hazards with higher amperage circuits. Level 2 chargers typically operate at 240 volts and deliver up to 30 amps, while Level 3 chargers operate at 480 volts and deliver up to 100 amps.At these higher amperages, it is more likely that a fault or other electrical issue could occur, potentially leading to a fire or other dangerous situation. A disconnect allows for the quick and safe isolation of the charger from the power source in the event of an emergency.For chargers less than 60 amps, the risk of electrical hazards is not as great, and it is assumed that common sense will prevail in the installation and use of these chargers. However, it is still good practice to provide a disconnect for all hardwired units, regardless of amperage, as this provides an additional level of safety and convenience.Here are some additional thoughts on why a disconnect may be required for all hardwired chargers: Safety
A disconnect allows for the quick and safe isolation of the charger from the power source in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or electrical fault.
Convenience
A disconnect allows for the charger to be easily turned off for maintenance or troubleshooting.*
Code compliance: In some jurisdictions, a disconnect may be required by code for all hardwired electrical equipment.Overall, it is good practice to provide a disconnect for all hardwired EV chargers, regardless of amperage. This provides an additional level of safety, convenience, and code compliance. Flag for review