And better yet hardwire an EVSE such as a ChargePoint Flex so that you'll not run the risk of the outlet or plug melting/burning (it's happened to many).First off you can charge at 120V, slow but doable. Second you need to get a 240V socket like your stove or dryer. Many threads on the subject with the info you need to do it right.
In the interim, please do not use a NEMA 6-20 to NEMA 14-50 adapter. NEMA 6-20 is for a maximum current of 20 Amps, while the Ford Mobile Charger will draw 32 Amps. Attempting this can lead to bad things (e.g., tripped circuits, or worse yet, fire).
I got to Google all of these abbreviations you mentioned ?.NEMA 6-20 is good enough if you don’t want to do work on your house. It gives 3.8 kW. In comparison, 120V charging gives 1.4kW, the Ford mobile charger is capable of up to 7.7 kW, the Mach E is capable of up to 11.5kW.
3.8kW gives you 35kWh overnight (conservatively assuming 10 hours and 90% efficiency). That’s more than sufficient for most use cases. That’s more than 100 miles.
You do need to buy a new EVSE because the Ford mobile charger isn’t capable to 240V/16A. If you can’t find a UL-listed EVSE with NEMA 6-20 plug, using a UL-listed EVSE with a DIP switch (set to 20A) and a plug adapter is safe.
Buy an EVSE that uses a 6-50 plug AND allows you to lower it to 16A (80% of 20A. The number 20 comes from NEMA 6-20R, the name of the receptacle in your photo) via a hardware switch. For example,I got to Google all of these abbreviations you mentioned ?.
Given my situation how can I charge my car on a decent rate. I don't need super fast charging. But can not live on 120v.
Just use the 120 adaptor with the Ford mobile charger for now. You can add about 20-30 miles every night. If you’re not charged up now, go find a fast charger and charge to 80 or 90%. Those two things should last you a week or more as long as you don’t have a long commute. Call an electrician tomorrow and make an appointment for a NEMA 14-50 install in your garage For an EV. I didn’t do any extensive wiring and it cost me about $600. The guy gave me the estimate and it seemed ok to me so he did it right then. Problem solved. You can shop for a third party EVSE at your leisure but it’s not necessary, only a preference. I’m still using my Ford mobile charger in year two.I got to Google all of these abbreviations you mentioned ?.
Given my situation how can I charge my car on a decent rate. I don't need super fast charging. But can not live on 120v.
ThanksJust use the 120 adaptor with the Ford mobile charger for now. You can add about 20-30 miles every night. If you’re not charged up now, go find a fast charger and charge to 80 or 90%. Those two things should last you a week or more as long as you don’t have a long commute. Call an electrician tomorrow and make an appointment for a NEMA 14-50 install in your garage For an EV. I didn’t do any extensive wiring and it cost me about $600. The guy gave me the estimate and it seemed ok to me so he did it right then. Problem solved. You can shop for a third party EVSE at your leisure but it’s not necessary, only a preference. I’m still using my Ford mobile charger in year two.
There is absolutely nothing wrong or unsafe with charging with the outlet shown as long as a 16amp EVSE is used.You just purchased a $60,000 car. Do it right - add a new 50 or 50 amp circuit and purchase a wall mount EVSE or use the mobile. Sure there are work arounds but why go down that route. Hire an electrician if needed - make it safe and reliable. EV’S are here to stay!
I agree that the OP shouldn’t do that.
But it’s safe to use equipments (EVSE, cables, adapters) that are rated for 20A or above downstream of a 20A breaker. Therefore, unless OP’s house has a totally illegal and dangerous set up, nothing bad (other than the breaker tripping) should happen if OP tries.
It is always best to not rely on a breaker to prevent damage and possible fire. Yes, they're there for that purpose, but like anything else in life, failures occur. The Ford Mobile Charger will draw 32A and therefore should trip the breaker. If it trips the breaker, then the OP can't charger their car. If it doesn't trip the breaker, then it might burn down the house (or maybe "just" destroy the outlet, adapter, and possible the Ford Mobile Charger). I'm really struggling to see any upside here.There is absolutely nothing wrong or unsafe with charging with the outlet shown as long as a 16amp EVSE is used.
I have charged for 3 years with a 30amp outlet and have never wished I had a more powerful outlet.
In my experience a 20amp circuit is perfect for the vast majority of EV owners.