Electric Vehicles (EVs) are taking the world by storm, and as the number of EVs on the road continues to grow, so does the need for a robust charging infrastructure. By 2027, it is estimated there will be 3 million charging stations worldwide, supporting over 15 million electric vehicles. Among these, Tesla’s electric cars stand out as a popular choice amongst drivers. In fact, we’ve been installing a lot of Tesla Wall Connectors as of late. Are you considering bringing a Tesla home, but unsure about the charging options? Whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or a property management company with tenants driving Teslas, the question remains the same: “How much does it cost to get a Tesla charging station?” MaCharge, the leading electrical contractor specializing in electric vehicle installations and energy management solutions, is here to provide you with the answers you seek.
The Tesla Home Charging Options
We should all agree the most convenient place to charge your Tesla vehicle is more often than not at home. A growing habit is plugging your car overnight after when you get home. It’s a lot of fun not to have to take trips to the pump with a gas-powered vehicle when you have a Tesla Many of our customers program their car to charge while they sleep. This applies more in the United States and other provinces, can utilize low overnight utility pricing during off-peak hours, saving both time and money.
Tesla offers three main charging options for their Model S, Model X, and Model 3 vehicles. Let’s take a look at some options that will allow you to charger these Tesla vehicles in the comfort of your home and how much you can expect to pay.
1. Tesla Level 1 (120V Outlet)
The most basic charging option, known as “Level 1,” involves plugging your Tesla into a standard 120V outlet, similar to the ones used for your household appliances. As there’s no additional installation required, the setup cost is minimal, making it a budget-friendly option. However, keep in mind that Level 1 charging supplies a modest 4-5 km’s of range per hour, making it suitable for overnight charging when time isn’t a concern. We don’t recommend this option as its very rare that the circuit of the plug (in the garage or outside) was sized to charge a vehicle for over many continuous hours. One can get by on the cheap, but not recommended. In fact, many our customers start off this way but call eventually when the breaker keeps tripping.
2. Tesla Level 2 (240V)
The Level 2 option is similar to Level 1 but requires access to a 240V. For the convenience factors, we consider we consider it a relatively affordable solution. We compare it when dryers starting making their appearance in homes, versus drying on a hanger outside. The Level 2 option provides faster charging, adding between 30 and 50 kilometers of range per hour. The installation cost for a Level 2 charger can vary based on home wiring and power capacity, ranging from $700 to $2,000. It’s essential to hire a reputable local electrical contractor like MaCharge for a professional installation process. Why the range you might ask? Let’s dive into a little deeper.
Factors Affecting Installation Costs
We recommend installing your home charging equipment prior to taking delivery of your vehicle. Don’t wait until the last minute, electricians have schedules they have to respect with many customers. Several factors can influence the overall cost of installing a Tesla charging station:
7 Factors affecting Tesla Charging Station Cost
- Labor and Wiring: Hiring a licensed electrician is crucial for the installation process. It’s the law. The labor cost can vary based on the complexity of the job, basically the time it will take and the number of hours.
- Long runs (distance from electrical panel to installation site). The longer the run, the more it will require and the more time it will take. If your panel is the back of the house and your driveway at the front, expect to pay more than the neighbour or friend with a panel in the garage.
- If you want to hide the cables behind walls or in the ceiling, it will take more time as the electrician as to fish the wire. Also, expect to pay a drywall specialist to fix the holes.
- If you want the convenience of charging at home, you might need to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate the charging station and other equipment, which can contribute to the overall cost. There are some equipment solutions like a DCC or smart metering systems to alleviate some of the cost, but the savings are often minimal.
- NEMA Adapter and Cable Organizer: Depending on the charging station type, you might need to purchase a NEMA adapter and a cable organizer to keep your charging cables tidy and protected.
- Trenching: For a cleaner look, you can choose to bury the charging cables underground, but this might increase costs due to additional labor and materials. Or else, it will PVC mounted on your exterior walls.
- Permits: Depending on local regulations, you might require a permit for the installation, so consulting with your electrical contractor is crucial.
The Benefits of Installing a Tesla Fast Home Charger
Despite the initial investment, installing a Tesla fast home charger offers numerous advantages and the investment will pay for itself. And QUICKLY!
1. Convenience: With a home charger, you have the freedom to charge your Tesla at your convenience, eliminating the need to rely solely on public charging stations.
2. Fast Charging: Tesla fast home chargers provide faster charging compared to some public charging outlets, ensuring your vehicle is always ready for your next adventure.
3. Cost Savings: Charging your car at home can save you money compared to using public charging stations, especially during peak hours.
4. Safety and Smart Charging: Tesla home chargers come equipped with advanced features that ensure safe and smart charging, optimizing your electricity consumption and reducing your bills.
5. Energy Efficiency: Tesla chargers are designed to be energy-efficient, promoting sustainability by using only the energy required for charging and enabling connections to solar panel systems.
Electrify Your Journey with MaCharge
As the popularity of EVs continues to grow, investing in a Tesla charging station becomes a prudent choice for homeowners, businesses, and property management companies alike. The installation costs may vary depending on various factors, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial expenses.
For a seamless and reliable installation experience, trust MaCharge, your local electrical contractor specializing in electric vehicle installations and energy management solutions. Our team of expert electricians is committed to providing top-notch services to help you electrify your journey and contribute to a sustainable future.
Don’t miss out on the convenience, cost savings, and environmental benefits of owning a Tesla. Take the first step towards electrifying your life by installing a Tesla charging station with MaCharge!