Can you charge an electric car from an apartment via an extension cord: an explanation from energy experts

As electric vehicles grow in popularity in Ukraine, there are increasingly more instances of EV owners charging their cars directly from their apartments using a household extension cord. However, this method of charging an electric vehicle can be dangerous and violates fire safety regulations.

Energy experts warn: Charging an electric vehicle via an extension cord in an apartment building is prohibited and unsafe.

Why You Shouldn’t Charge an Electric Vehicle Using an Extension Cord

According to energy company experts, particularly representatives of regional power utilities, using extension cords to charge electric vehicles:

• violates fire safety regulations;

• creates a risk of wiring overheating;

• may cause a short circuit;

• increases the likelihood of a fire.

An apartment’s residential electrical system is not designed to handle the sustained high load generated by charging an electric vehicle. It is especially dangerous to use homemade extension cords or cables that do not comply with the requirements of the Electrical Installation Code.

What the Fire Safety Regulations Say

According to current regulations, it is prohibited to:

• use homemade extension cords;

• use equipment that does not comply with electrical safety standards;

• connecting high-power electrical appliances to circuits not rated for such a load.

Charging an electric vehicle through a window or from the balcony of an apartment building is a potentially hazardous situation that can endanger not only the car owner but also all residents of the building.

How to Properly Charge an Electric Vehicle Near an Apartment Building

The installation of charging stations near residential buildings is regulated by Ukrainian law. Specifically, according to Article 16 of the Law of Ukraine “On the Association of Co-owners of an Apartment Building (OSMD),” it is the OSMD that has the right to organize and equip parking spaces with charging stations.

Proper installation of an electric vehicle charging station ensures:

• a controlled load on the power grid;

• protection against overheating and short circuits;

• compliance with fire safety regulations;

• no legal risks for the car owner.

Conclusion

Charging an electric vehicle using an extension cord from an apartment is unsafe and illegal. The only correct option is to use a certified charging station installed in accordance with legal requirements and electrical safety standards.

As the number of electric vehicles in Ukraine increases, the issue of proper charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly important. It’s important for EV owners to remember: cutting corners on safety can lead to serious consequences.