GearIT 12 AWG Level 1 EV Charger Installation Wire Review
The GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire is engineered for safe, efficient, and long-lasting NEMA 5-20 Level 1 EV charger installations. Built for durability, this high-performance 12 AWG electrical wiring ensures reliable 16-amp charging, making it the ideal solution for homeowners and electricians setting up permanent NEMA 5-20 outlets for Level 1 EV charging stations.
The GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire is a top-tier solution for homeowners and electricians installing a NEMA 5-20 Level 1 EV charger. Designed for Level 1 EV charging circuit wiring safety, efficiency, and durability, GearIT 12 AWG THHN Level 1 EV charger installation wire is ideal for permanent NEMA 5-20 16 amps Level 1 EV charging station setups requiring robust, high-performance 12 AWG electrical wiring.
Electrical Specifications & Build Quality
Manufactured with solid-core, oxygen-free copper (OFC), the GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire provides minimal voltage drop, ensuring stable power delivery for electric vehicle charging. Rated for 600V with heat-resistant PVC insulation and a nylon jacket, this wire withstands temperatures up to 90°C and resists moisture, abrasion, and oil exposure. Additionally, it is UL-listed and RoHS-compliant, meeting high EV charger safety standards.
Applications & Use Cases
We recommend the GearIT Level 1 EV charger installation wire to DIY Level 1 EV charger installers and certified EV charger installers:
- Repairing faulty Level 1 EV charger wiring.
- Upgrading from aluminum to copper wiring for better conductivity in a Level 1 EV charger circuit.
- Replacing outdated cloth-insulated wiring to meet modern safety codes.
- Installing new NEMA 5-20 outlets for Level 1 EV charging stations.
- Extending the reach of a NEMA 5-20 Level 1 charger without using an extension cord.
Compatibility with Level 1 EV Chargers
This wire is specifically designed for 120V 16 amps Level 1 EV charger applications, offering efficient power transmission with minimal energy loss. Its solid copper conductor enhances electrical conductivity, making it ideal for continuous Level 1 EV charging loads.
Installation Considerations
For Level 1 EV charger installations, the GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire is available in 50ft, 100ft, 150ft, and 200ft lengths. It is recommended to minimize the wire length between the circuit breaker and the NEMA 5-20 EV charging outlet to reduce voltage drop and electrical resistance. Shorter wiring paths improve charging efficiency and overall system reliability.
Supported NEMA Outlets
The GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire is ideal for installing NEMA 5-20 (120V, 20A) outlets for Level 1 EV charging. Available as a single conductor, a complete plug-in Level 1 EV charger installation requires three conductors—red (hot), green (ground), and white (neutral)—to ensure safe and efficient power delivery as shown in the 16 amps NEMA 5-20 circuit, wired using GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire, and a 20 amps dedicated single pole circuit breaker:
A proper installation requires three conductors:
- Hot (Red): Connects to the 20A circuit breaker.
- Neutral (White): Runs from the neutral busbar to the outlet.
- Ground (Green): Links the ground busbar to the ground terminal.
While GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire is ideal for NEMA 5-20 outlets supporting 16A Level 1 EV charging, 14 AWG wiring is sufficient for NEMA 5-15 outlets handling 12A loads. Using the appropriate wire gauge optimizes efficiency, prevents overheating, and ensures a safe, code-compliant EV charger installation.
Best NEMA 5-20 Outlets for GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire
For a safe, efficient NEMA 5-20 Level 1 EV charger installation, we recommend these high-quality industrial-grade NEMA 5-20 outlets. Pair them with GearIT 12 AWG THHN Wire for reliable, long-lasting performance and durability to handle high continuous loads during EV charging:
Ease of Installation
Electricians will appreciate the structured design of the GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire:
- Rigid, Solid-Core Copper: While less flexible than stranded wire, solid copper wire is ideal for EV charger installations.
- Smooth Nylon Coating: Reduces friction, making it easier to pull through conduits.
- Proper Conduit Sizing: Fits well within 1″ to 1 1/4″ conduits, ensuring a seamless EV charger wiring installation.
To optimize EV charger wiring installation:
- Use the shortest possible wiring route.
- Avoid excessive bends to reduce electrical resistance.
- Do not create mid-circuit joints to prevent failure points.
The GearIT 12 AWG Level 1 EV Charger Installation Wire is best suited for permanent conduit installations, ensuring long-term reliability for home or garage EV charging setups. If you need a temporary solution to extend your NEMA 5-20 Level 1 EV charger reach, we recommend using a NEMA 5-20 EV charger extension cord, which allows repositioning of your charger without modifying permanent wiring.
Performance Testing & Real-World Use
In our real-world test, we installed a 20ft GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire circuit connected to a Battery Tender eCharger 16 amps Level 1 EV charger via a NEMA 5-20 outlet. The setup successfully delivered 3.84 kW at 80% efficiency, with no noticeable voltage drop or power instability. Despite extended charging sessions, the EV charger wire, outlet, and charging components remained cool, demonstrating excellent heat resistance up to 90°C.
Compatible Level 1 EV Chargers
The GearIT 12 AWG THHN wire is engineered for the installation of the following compatible Level 1 EV chargers that utilize NEMA 5-20 (120V, 20A) outlets, ensuring efficient power transmission with minimal voltage drop.
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