OK to use adapter to connect a Level 2 EVSE w/ NEMA 14-50 plug to NEMA 14-30 outlet?

Is it possible? Yes.
Will it work? Yes, but not safely.
Is it to code and legal? No.
Is it dangerous? Potentially, especially if you can't configure the charging rate on the Leaf or another car is plugged into it.

27.5A continuous load would require a circuit rated for 35A. Since you have a 30A receptacle, that's not possible and you would be exceeding its rating.

Your best bet is to install a proper NEMA 14-50 if you want the full 32A charging capability of the EVSE.

EDIT: If the unit can be programmed to a limit of 24A charging, then you could safely use the device connected in that way. I didn't go looking for manuals to see if that was possible, as it is configured by default for 32A charging.

OnePlanet said:

I would like to know if it is possible to connect a Level 2 EVSE with a NEMA 14-50 plug such as the Clipper Creek HCS-40P [32 amp EV Charging Station] to a NEMA 14-30 outlet with an adapter like this (http://www.corddepot.com/shop/power-adapter/nema-14-30p-to-14-50r-evse-adapter-cord/) to charge a Nissan Leaf?
The Leaf 's onboard charger is rated 6.6 kw [27.5 amps] and charges the battery at 6.0 kw [25 amps]. I want to be able to charge as quickly as possible with a portable Level 2 EVSE and would prefer not to use a 4.8 kw [20 amp] EVSE.


Link for Clipper Creek HCS-40P: http://www.clippercreek.com/store/product/hcs-40p-32a-240v-charging-25-cord-nema-14-50-plug/

Any help would be appreciated.

Click to expand...

Short answer, no.

Longer answer - a 14-30 can't deliver more than 24A continuous, so your Leaf is overloading the circuit. Plus there's the NEC/insurance risks of plugging at into an undersized circuit.

Either upgrade the circuit, buy a LCS-25 with a 14-30 (and charge at 20A), or, if you already own the HCS-40P, call Clipper Creek and see if you can send it back and have the pilot programmed to 24A charge rate and a 14-30 plug installed. They have downgraded pilot signals in the past.