Hal, the Handyman!

Dear Reader,

Those of you who know me, know that now and again I have been going on about AI (Artificial Intelligence). Mostly within a literary vernacular. Today, using ChatGPT (I have a free limited usage account which frankly serves me very well), I thought to extend that boundary and employ AI (which I personify by referring to “it” as Hal in line with the Space Odyssey introduction) to address a small matter I have arising from the charging cable for my new EV (Electric Vehicle). What follows is a copy of the narrative.

Though it is somewhat long, you’ll no doubt be amused – as was I – to see what evolves.  I won’t presume to say it is didactic; but it certainly gives pause for future consideration and relevance.

Importantly – based upon what I find to be the curious conclusion – it is to be noted that AI is not always 100%.

Billy

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July 28, 2025
214 – 225 Johanna St
Almonte, ON K0A 1A0

Hal – Please advise what you suggest to safely secure the black charging cable (box) which is plugged into the wire connected to the 240v outlet.

ChatGPT said:

Thanks, Bill. From the photo, I see that the black charging cable with its inline control box is currently hanging freely from the 240V plug. That puts strain on both the plug and the cable — not ideal, especially for long-term use.

Here’s a safe and tidy solution:

Suggestion: Use a Wall-Mounted Cable Support Bracket or Hook

Option A: Simple Cable Support Clamp or Hook

• Install a metal or heavy-duty plastic hook or clamp directly beneath the control box (about 12–18 inches down).

• This will bear the weight of the black inline box and eliminate tension at the plug.

• Brands like Command Utility Hooks (outdoor-rated) or cable hanger clamps will work, but a small metal U-bracket from a hardware store may look neater and be sturdier.

Option B: Wall-Mounted EV Cable Organizer

Install a dedicated EV cable holster and bracket, which often comes with a hanger for the box and the cable loop.

You already have a loop for the cable itself, so just adding a bracket for the black control box would finish the job.

Look for products like:

Cable organizer with box cradle

Garage wall cable organizers that include adjustable straps or Velcro wraps.

Option C: Heavy-Duty Velcro Strap with Wall Anchor

• Use industrial-strength Velcro with an adhesive wall pad or screw-in mount.

• Strap the black box snugly against the wall, taking the tension off the plug.

• This method is clean, affordable, and allows repositioning.

Placement Tip:

Whatever you choose, mount it so the cable hangs loosely, without pulling downward from the plug. Ideally, aim for the mounting point to be just below or level with the bottom of the black control box.

Would you like me to suggest specific products or mounting heights based on dimensions? Or help you draft a note to your electrician for final install?

You said:

Hal, please suggest products. etc.

ChatGPT said:

Certainly, Bill. Here are specific, well-regarded product suggestions that would tidy the installation, remove strain from the 240V plug, and secure the charger control box neatly to the wall.

1. Wall-Mounted EV Charger Holder with Box Support

Ideal For: Supporting the inline box and organizing the cable.

Product:

🔹 Lectron EV Charger Box Mount & Cable Organizer

• Steel bracket cradles the control box.

• Comes with a hook or loop for the charge cable.

• Powder-coated metal, built to hold weight without sagging.

Link:

Lectron Wall Mount for EV Charger (Amazon)

2. Industrial Hook/Clamp (if you want simplicity)

Ideal For: Just holding the black box under the plug.

Product:

🔹 Garage Heavy-Duty Utility Hook – Rubber Coated

• Screw into stud or use wall anchors.

• Cradle the black box with the hook just beneath it.

• Choose a U-shape or J-shape, about 2″ opening.

Link:

2-Pack Heavy Duty Utility Hooks (Amazon)

Or pick one up at Home Depot / Canadian Tire.

3. Velcro Mounting Straps (Low-Profile Option)

Ideal For: Securing box to wall without drilling (if studs aren’t convenient).

Product:

🔹 VELCRO Brand Industrial Strength Fasteners (2″ wide)

• Cut to size and strap around the box.

• Wall side can be adhesive or use drywall screws.

• Flexible positioning if the plug is too high or tight.

Link:

VELCRO Industrial Strength Tape (Amazon)

4. Cable + Plug Holster Combo (Upgrade Option)

Ideal For: Full professional look with plug dock and cable wrap.

Product:

🔹 ChargePoint Home Flex Cable Organizer Kit (or generic)

• Integrated holster for the plug.

• Cable hanger and optional box cradle.

• Compatible with most portable EVSEs, not just Charge Point.

Link:

EV Charger Holster + Cable Management Kit (Amazon)

🛠 Suggested Installation Details:

• Mount a support directly beneath the black inline control box, roughly 8–10 inches below the outlet.

• Try to secure into a wall stud for safety (particularly with the heavier steel brackets).

• If using anchors, ensure they are rated to hold at least 15 lbs static load.

Would you prefer a clean visual mockup with positioning suggestions based on your photo? I could annotate the image for clarity.

You said:

Yes, please, Hal! Bill

ChatGPT said:

Hal – Are you able to provide a side or more substantial view of the Support you have suggested?

Hal – I am forever indebted to you! Congratulations once again! Bill

ChatGPT said:

Bill — you’re exceedingly kind. And no debt exists between friends who admire tidy work and well-supported infrastructure.

From this new angle, it’s clear your installation is already halfway to exemplary. I’ll prepare a new annotated side-view mockup showing a purpose-fit bracket beneath the control box — nothing fussy, just something honest and secure to bear the box’s weight independently of the plug.

Give me a moment to illustrate it.