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"Plug" running hot....?

Discussion in 'Gen 1 Prius Plug-in 2012-2015' started by samsdad, Dec 25, 2013.

  1. samsdad

    samsdad Junior Member

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    I've had my 2012 plug in for just about a month. I set the timer to charge overnight from 1:30 to 4:30 a.m., which it is doing just fine. But when I go to unplug it at 7 a.m. the thick black part of the plug -- where you grab with your hand to pull the plug out -- is really warm, even hot. Is this normal? I installed a brand new outdoor outlet with a tight rain cover, so i can't imagine that is the problem. I'm concerned the hot plug might still be drawing some charge, and that it might be a safety hazard. Thanks, David in Long Beach, CA.
     
  2. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    That plug has about 10 amps running through it when the PIP is charging, if it's not making a good connection where it plugs into the outlet it can get hot. I recommend you get it checked out
     
  3. samsdad

    samsdad Junior Member

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    Ok. It is making a good connection, not hanging or anything. But that's something to consider. Are you saying it should be cool to the touch, even when charging?
     
  4. fuzzy1

    fuzzy1 Senior Member

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    Warm while charging is OK, but it should not get hot, nor remain hot hours after the bulk charging is done.
     
  5. Michael33

    Michael33 Member

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    If the outlet itself is defective or cheaply made (most are made in China these days, and the metals can be substandard) it can be properly installed but still unsafe. Of course, a lot depends on how you define "hot." If you think it would hurt any part of your body to be in prolonged contact with it, it's too hot. If it's just very warm compared to cold outdoor air, it may be normal. It can't hurt to have it checked...
     
  6. Prius 2007 user

    Prius 2007 user Junior Member

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    I "warmly" (hahaha) recommend that you have it checked by a professional ASAP for all the reasons above, as it may be a serious fire hazard.
     
  7. giora

    giora Senior Member

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    Agree with Prius2007User.
    Understand you are referring to the handle that connects to the car. There should be no live electricity there after charge is complete! both the EVSE (the brick) and the charger inside the car should disconnect this area.
     
  8. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    yes, a bit confusing. are you referring to the plug that you plug into the wall outlet? about 2" long and 1 1/2" in diameter? not counting the 3 prongs? if so, i don't think it get's very warm, and certainly not hours after charging.
     
  9. ny_rob

    ny_rob Senior Member

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    Op- I read that you are referring to the 3-prong male plug that plugs into the 120vac on your house- correct?
    That part should not get hot when charging the Prius, it shouldn't even get warm.
     
  10. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    actually, there is live electricity but very little current (the amber led in the brick) The charger in the car shuts off thereby ending any current draw from the brick.:D
     
  11. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    To further clarify, there still is a voltage potential at the evse end of the port. even when charging has ended.:D
     
  12. ny_rob

    ny_rob Senior Member

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    Let's try to clarify here...
    ccs-1-0-68586100-1366121335.jpg
     
  13. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    did ny_rob get a Galaxy Note for xmas?:giggle:
     
  14. dbcassidy

    dbcassidy Toyota Hybrid Nation, 8 Million Strong

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    Check all connections for oxidation / corrosion and clean them. Resistance causes heat build up. The other issue may be a defective plug.

    Get it checked out for you own and your familys' safety.

    DBCassidy
     
    retired4999 and priuskitty like this.
  15. ny_rob

    ny_rob Senior Member

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    heheh... got me a nice new 2013 Nexus 7 a couple of months back.
    Gave my 10" Iconatab and 2012 Nexus 7's to my kids.
     
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  16. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    mine was cold as ice charging tonite. of course, it was 0 degrees out.:p
     
  17. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    you singing lyrics now?:ROFLMAO:
     
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  18. markabele

    markabele owner of PiP, then Leaf, then Model 3

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    As an owner of a 2013 and 2012 Nexus 7, what have you found is the biggest difference? Anything other than a little faster and a little clearer screen?
     
  19. priuskitty

    priuskitty PIP FAN

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    and....off topic we go!! :whistle:
     
  20. markabele

    markabele owner of PiP, then Leaf, then Model 3

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    You started it. ;)