If you’re looking to extend the leads of your Noco charger, it’s a simple process that can significantly improve accessibility and flexibility during charging. Noco chargers are well-known for their efficiency, but sometimes their cables can feel a bit too short for your needs.
Extending the leads allows you to charge your vehicle, boat, or RV from a greater distance without the hassle of moving the charger around. This article will walk you through the steps, tools, and precautions necessary to safely extend your Noco charger leads.
Best Tools for Extending Noco Charger Leads
When extending the leads of your Noco charger, it’s essential to use the right tools and accessories to ensure a safe and efficient setup. Here are the best products to help you with this task:
NOCO Extension Cable (20 feet)
The NOCO Extension Cable is specifically designed to work with Noco chargers, providing a 20-foot extension for added reach. Its durability and compatibility make it a reliable choice for any Noco product, ensuring your charger maintains optimal performance.
Why we recommend it:
The NOCO Extension Cable is designed for use with Noco chargers, ensuring a seamless connection with minimal power loss. It’s weather-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use, and has high-quality connectors for a secure fit.
Camco 50 Amp Extension Cord (25 feet)
The Camco 50 Amp Extension Cord offers a sturdy 25-foot extension that works well with most Noco chargers. This heavy-duty cord can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, providing extra reach for charging vehicles and RVs.
Why we recommend it:
Camco’s extension cord is built for durability, designed to handle high power loads and extreme weather conditions. The long 25-foot length gives you the extra space you need to position your charger without sacrificing safety.
YAZUO Heavy Duty Extension Cable (16 feet)
The YAZUO Heavy Duty Extension Cable offers a 16-foot length and is designed for outdoor usage. With a thick, high-quality build, it can be used to extend your Noco charger’s reach with ease while ensuring safety and reliability.
Why we recommend it:
This extension cable is made with thick, heavy-duty materials, ensuring long-lasting use. It also offers excellent insulation, preventing power loss and keeping the connection secure in various weather conditions.
How to Safely Extend Noco Charger Leads
When extending the leads of your Noco charger, it’s crucial to ensure safety and prevent damage to your equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly extend your Noco charger leads:
Step 1: Choose the Right Extension Cable
First, ensure that you select an extension cable with the correct voltage and amperage rating for your Noco charger. The Noco Genius chargers typically use 12V or 24V systems, so you’ll need an extension cable capable of handling the appropriate voltage.
Step 2: Disconnect the Charger
Before extending the leads, always disconnect the charger from the power source to avoid any electrical accidents. Safety is key when handling electrical equipment.
Step 3: Attach the Extension Cable
Once the charger is disconnected, plug the extension cable into the Noco charger’s output socket. Make sure the connection is secure, as loose connections can lead to voltage drops or overheating.
Step 4: Run the Extension Cable Safely
Position the extension cable in a way that it doesn’t cause any tripping hazards or get damaged. It’s advisable to use cable clips or ties to secure the cable along a safe path. Avoid placing it in high-traffic areas or areas where it could be exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Step 5: Test the Setup
After securing everything, reconnect the charger to the power source and test it. Check the extension cable for any signs of heating or wear and ensure the charger operates normally. If everything works as expected, your Noco charger’s reach has been successfully extended.
How to Maintain Your Extended Noco Charger Leads
Maintaining your extended Noco charger leads is essential for ensuring their longevity, reliability, and safety. Proper care will prevent issues such as wear, power loss, or even electrical hazards. Here are some key maintenance tips to help you get the most out of your extended charger leads:
Inspect Regularly for Damage
One of the most important aspects of maintaining extended leads is regularly inspecting them for any signs of damage, such as frays, cracks, or exposed wires. If you notice any damage, replace the cable immediately to avoid any safety risks. Regular checks ensure that you catch problems early, preventing bigger issues down the line.
Keep the Cables Clean
Dirt and grime can accumulate on your extension cables over time, which could lead to wear and corrosion. To keep your leads in good shape, periodically wipe them down with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can degrade the insulation. If the cables are extremely dirty, use mild soap and water to clean them.
Store Properly When Not in Use
When you’re not using your extended Noco charger leads, it’s important to store them properly. Coiling the cable tightly and leaving it exposed to sunlight can cause it to become brittle and crack. Instead, store the cable in a cool, dry place, preferably in a coil that isn’t too tight, which will prevent the cable from developing kinks.
Avoid Sharp Bends
Sharp bends in your extension cable can cause the wires inside to break or degrade over time. Make sure to avoid bending the cable at sharp angles, especially near the connectors. When storing or using the cable, maintain gentle curves to preserve the integrity of the internal wires.
Check the Connections
Frequent use of extension cables can cause the connectors to become loose or corroded. Every few months, check the connectors on both ends of the cable to ensure they are clean and securely attached. You can use contact cleaner to clean the connectors, and if needed, apply some dielectric grease to help prevent corrosion.
Conclusion
Extending the leads of your Noco charger is a practical solution for improving convenience and flexibility, whether you’re charging your vehicle, boat, or RV. With the right extension cables, you can safely and easily extend the reach of your Noco charger without sacrificing performance.
By choosing the right tools, following proper installation procedures, and maintaining your cables regularly, you can ensure that your charger continues to perform optimally for years to come.
Remember, safety is key when dealing with electrical equipment, so always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and inspect your cables for damage regularly. Now that you know how to extend and maintain your Noco charger leads, you can enjoy a more efficient charging experience with increased freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extending Noco Charger Leads
Can I use any extension cable to extend my Noco charger leads?
While you technically can use any extension cable, it’s best to use a cable specifically designed for high power loads, such as the NOCO Extension Cable or heavy-duty options like the Camco or YAZUO extension cords. Using cables not rated for the required voltage and amperage can result in power loss or safety issues.
How long can I safely extend my Noco charger leads?
It’s generally recommended not to extend your Noco charger leads more than 25 feet for optimal performance. Going beyond this distance can cause voltage drops, reduced charging efficiency, and potential overheating of the extension cable.
Will extending the leads of my Noco charger affect its charging speed?
Extending the leads may result in a slight loss of charging efficiency, especially if you use an extension cable of poor quality or a very long cable. However, using the right extension cord with the appropriate voltage and amperage ratings will minimize this effect.
Can I use a multi-outlet extension cord to extend Noco charger leads?
No, using a multi-outlet extension cord is not recommended, as it may not be able to handle the power demands of your Noco charger. It’s essential to use a single heavy-duty extension cable rated for your charger’s needs to ensure safe and effective operation.
How do I know if my Noco charger leads are too short for my needs?
If you find that you’re constantly moving the charger around to reach your battery or equipment, or if the leads are not long enough to reach a convenient location, it might be time to extend them. Ensure that you have enough slack to avoid any tension or risk of damage to the cable.