Leviton NEMA 14-50 Outlet for Level 2 EV Charger Installation (Plug-In)
The Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlet is a reliable and durable choice for Level 2 EV charging, available as the indoor 1450R and weather-resistant outdoor 1450W models, both supporting 50 amp, 250 VAC circuits.
The Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlet is one of the most commonly installed and trusted 240V receptacles for residential Level 2 EV charging. Whether you’re setting up a new plug-in Level 2 EV charger or plugging your NEMA 14-50 EV charger into an existing outlet installed by a licensed EV charger installer, there’s a good chance it’s a NEMA 14-50, and quite possibly a Leviton.
But how well does it hold up under the real-world demands of EV charging? In this review, we take a close look at the Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlet and outline its build quality, safety characteristics, and performance under continuous high-load conditions of EV charging to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your EV charging setup.
Compare Leviton 50 Amp Power Outlets
There are three main types of Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlets. The most common, often already installed in homes, is the Leviton 279-S00. However, we do not recommend this model for EV charging, as it’s specifically designed for electric ranges and dryers. Using it for continuous, high-current loads like EV charging can compromise outlet and wiring integrity. If you have a Leviton 279-S00 installed, consider upgrading to a Leviton 50 Amp NEMA 14-50 outlet designed specifically for EV charging.
If you have a dedicated EV charging branch circuit installed by a licensed electrician or certified EV charger installer, there’s a high chance you have either the Leviton 1450R, designed for indoor EV charger installations or the Leviton 1450W, rated for outdoor use. Both versions feature a small green car symbol on the outlet, indicating EV compatibility.
Build Quality
As mentioned earlier, Leviton’s NEMA 14-50 outlets are built specifically for demanding applications like Level 2 EV charging. With specs including 50 Amp, 250V, 3P, 4W, flush mount, straight blade, and industrial-grade construction, they check all the essential boxes.
The build quality is excellent. These outlets meet commercial-grade standards, featuring a heavy-duty thermoplastic body designed to withstand mechanical stress and elevated temperatures common in frequent EV charging. Their solid brass contacts provide strong conductivity and resist corrosion, while the deeply seated, clearly marked terminal screws allow secure, high-torque connections without stripping. The fit and finish reflect Leviton’s decades of expertise, ensuring a well-made, thoughtfully engineered product.
In real-world EV charging scenarios, these outlets perform reliably. However, like all electrical devices subjected to continuous high current loads, they are vulnerable to long-term wear—especially if used frequently for long charging sessions. Across various NEMA 14-50 outlet brands, including Hubbel, and Leviton, we’ve observed contact degradation caused by electrical arcing, which leads to heat buildup, deformation, and sometimes melting.
This issue isn’t inherently a flaw in the outlet but rather a consequence of repeated plug-in cycles under load and lack of routine inspection and maintenance. Electrical arcing, often caused by worn spring-loaded contacts or frequent connection and disconnection while the charger is powered, creates microscopic pitting and erosion at contact points. This damage increases electrical resistance, which generates more heat, accelerating further degradation in a vicious cycle. Over time, even a high-quality, industrial-grade receptacle like the Leviton NEMA 14-50 can suffer compromised performance, as illustrated in the diagram below:
If you’re relying on a Leviton NEMA 14-50 receptacle for home EV charging, it’s worth using a high-quality unit like this one. Just as important, though, is following proper de-energized connection practices and regularly inspecting the outlet for signs of heat, discoloration, or looseness. While the build quality is solid, no receptacle brand, including the Leviton NEMA outlet is immune to long-term wear from electrical arcing when EV charging.
Safety Features
Leviton’s EV-rated outlets are UL-listed, meet National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, and are rated for 50 amps at 250V. They include reinforced grounding terminals, robust strain relief, and a design that ensures EV charger plug blades are fully inserted and securely seated. When installed properly on a dedicated EV charging circuit, protected by a 50A breaker, and wired with 6 AWG copper conductors (though 4 AWG is also accepted for longer cables due to EV charger circuit wiring voltage drops), these outlets minimize the risk of overheating and electrical arcing.
In practical use, especially with Level 2 EV chargers drawing 32 to 40 amps continuously, the Leviton 1450R and 1450W maintain reliable contact pressure on plug blades, reducing resistance and heat buildup.
Safety Note: Regularly inspect your NEMA 14-50 outlet to ensure it maintains firm contact with your EV charger plug. Over time, wear and tear can reduce contact pressure, allowing electricity to arc across small air gaps between the prongs and terminals. This arcing can produce heat, and sparks, and potentially cause overheating or outlet failure.
Thermal imaging during extended charging sessions confirms these outlets operate within safe temperature limits when paired with a 40A Level 2 charger on a properly installed 50A circuit. However, as with all NEMA 14-50 outlets, routine inspection for wear, discoloration, or loose connections is essential, especially if you frequently plug and unplug your EV charger. Over time, repeated use may reduce contact pressure and affect the outlet’s performance and safety.
Suitability for EV Applications
The Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlet is a reliable choice for Level 2 EV charging, supporting 50 amps at 250V and accommodating up to four wires, making it compatible with a variety of electrical setups. The marked terminals simplify installation, accepting solid copper conductors up to No. 4 AWG, though 6 AWG is recommended for most 40A plug-in EV charger installations. It fits standard wallplates with a 2.15-inch diameter center hole, and all necessary mounting hardware is included.
For indoor plug-in EV charger installations, the Leviton 1450R model is ideal, delivering dependable performance in garages and other protected environments.
For outdoor plug-in EV charger installations, the Leviton 1450W is weather-resistant and built to withstand exposure to the elements when installed in driveways, carports, or outdoor pedestals, provided it is paired with a proper weatherproof cover.
Widely trusted by electricians, EV charger installers, and charger manufacturers, the Leviton NEMA 14-50 performs reliably when installed on a properly sized, dedicated EV charging circuit.
During inspections of failed Leviton NEMA 14-50 outlets used for EV charging, a common issue is undersized wiring. One of the leading causes of outlet overheating and failure is using a wire gauge too small for the continuous current drawn by a 40A Level 2 EV charger.
We strongly recommend using 6 AWG solid copper wire, as shown in the Leviton NEMA 14-50 branch circuit wiring diagram above, for a NEMA 14-50 branch circuit rated for a 40A plug-in EV charger. If the wire gauge is undersized, especially over long runs from the main service panel to the outlet, excessive voltage drop can occur. This voltage drop results in localized heating at weak points such as worn contacts, loose plug fit, damaged terminals, and thermal expansions. Over time, degraded conditions of the outlet can cause both voltage drop and arcing which causes pitting, erosion, and material degradation of the metallic contacts on both the receptacle and the EV charger’s plug.
Compatible In-Use Electrical Cover
Installing a Level 2 EV charger with a Leviton NEMA 14-50 Outlet? Upgrade with a weatherproof in-use outlet cover. This practical addition protects against environmental damage, ensuring safe and reliable operation. Based on our expertise, it’s a low-cost solution for extending the lifespan of your charging setup.
Compatible NEMA 14-50 EV Chargers (Level 2)
The Enphase IQ 50 40 Amp Smart EV Charger delivers 9.6kW of power at 240V with a hardwired installation and a 25ft cable. Featuring Wi-Fi connectivity, a ruggedized J1772 connector, and safety certifications, it ensures reliable, efficient charging. Backed by a 5-year warranty, it's ideal for home use and future-proofing.
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