The Best Home Chargers For Tesla
Before we dive into the details, let’s familiarize ourselves with some key considerations regarding all the latest Tesla models, specifically, max AC/ power output and estimated charging times.
Model | AC Port | Max. AC Power Output | Estimated AC Charge Time |
Model 3 | SAE J1772 or Tesla Type | 11.5 kW | ~6h-9h |
Model Y | SAE J1772 or Tesla Type | 11.5 kW | ~6h-9h |
Model S | SAE J1772 or Tesla Type | 17.2 kW | ~6h-9h |
Model X | SAE J1772 or Tesla Type | 17.2 kW | ~6h-9h |
You’ll notice the max AC power output. Therefore, it is important to select a home charger that can handle a higher power output for optimal charging times.
Even though there are more powerful versions of the chargers on this list available, most homes are limited to a 50 Amp circuit.
But what does that mean? Essentially your home will be capped at around 10 kW of output. So it’s important not to over-invest in equipment you can’t get all the benefits from to avoid unnecessary expenses and ensure efficient charging.
The short answer for the best is in the table below. For the long answer, keep reading.
This review of the best EV home chargers for Teslas will focus on level 2 chargers that deliver power output appropriate for home charging your Tesla.
For Model 3 and Model Y, I recommend chargers with 40 Amps or around 9.6 kW of AC output. While for Model S and Model X, chargers with up to 48 Amps or 11.5 kW of AC output are ideal (as long as you have a 60 Amp circuit at home).
You’ll be able to enjoy the full AC capacity through public AC charging or DC fast charging. In any case, you’ll still benefit from significantly faster charging times compared to a level 1 charger. Here are three top options and the best EV home chargers in general for Tesla owners:
The Best EV Home Chargers for Tesla
Something to keep in mind is that all the featured products qualify for the Federal EV charger tax credit, so you could theoretically get it for free after the rebates.
You could also be eligible for state incentives to really take advantage of what’s on offer! Check out this article from the Department of Energy for more information.
Best For Tesla – Tesla Wall Connector
This product stands out as a top choice. Now it’s worth noting that this charger differs from the Mobile Connector. The explanation is beyond the scope of this review but is detailed fully in my Tesla Wall Connector vs NEMA 14-50 article.
Based on my experience, I would like to offer some insights on what features to consider while choosing the right Wall Connector for your needs.
The Tesla Wall Connector offers adjustable charging speeds, ranging from 12 to 48 amps. The speed you require depends on your Tesla’s onboard charger, the desired charge time, and your home’s electrical capacity.
It’s important to take these factors into account when choosing your home charger. And by keeping your vehicle and charger on brand you can rest assured you’re covered.
Where you plan to install the Wall Connector matters. Tesla Wall Connectors are available with a 24 ft cable. Consider your garage layout, the proximity of the electrical panel to your parking space, and the location of your Tesla’s charging port. This article will help you choose the best location for your Wall Connector.
With the Wall Connector’s software updates, you can expect enhanced charging performance and access to new features as they become available. To ensure these updates run smoothly, be sure to have reliable Wi-Fi coverage in the area where you install the charger.
If you currently own multiple Teslas or are thinking about buying another in the future, it’s worth considering the Wall Connector’s load-sharing capability.
This handy feature lets you distribute power among several Wall Connectors, making sure your vehicles charge effectively without putting too much strain on your home’s electrical system.
Feature | Specifications |
---|---|
Charging Speed | 12 to 48 amps |
Installation Location and Cable Length | Indoor/Outdoor with 24ft cable |
Wi-Fi Connectivity | Stable Wi-Fi coverage needed |
Load Sharing | For multiple Teslas |
Tesla Wall Connector [Hardwired] 48-Amp
- Charge in as little as 7 hours
- 11.5 kW power output for a single vehicle
- Indoor and outdoor installation approved
- No integration with other home energy systems
Best Overall – JuiceBox Smart Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Our Rating: 4.2/5
Cost
Power Delivery
Quality
Smart Features
Safety & Warranty
Value Bonus [+1.5] Power delivery, smart features, and safety/warranty
Total Score: 21/25
Full Review: JuiceBox by Enel X Review
When it comes to purchasing an EV charger, the most important thing you want is power that matches your vehicle. And the JuiceBox Smart EV charger delivers this perfectly.
The JuiceBox bt Enel X is one of the market’s most popular and highly-reviewed EV home chargers. It also happens to be the best option for Tesla EV models.
If you’ve ever used a Level 1 electric vehicle charger, you’ll know how slow and frustrating it can be to rely on. Luckily, the JuiceBox is a Level 2 charger, which means that it delivers up to 48 Amps and is capable of charging your vehicle up to 9 times faster than Level 1 chargers.
Because of its weatherproof casing, you can have this home charger installed outside your home without fear. Plus, the 25-foot cable means that accessing the charging port never has to be complicated or impractical.
The LED indicator lights built into the JuiceBox home charger can help you to monitor your charging status up close. Alternatively, this charger can connect to the JuiceNet app, allowing you to control and monitor the charging process.
The 48 Amp version is designed to be hardwired into your electrical system, and you will need to hire a professional electrician to complete the installation for you.
Pros
- Level 2 charging – Rapid charge times
- LED indicators – Display’s charging status
- Weatherproof case – Suited for outdoor use
- 25-foot cable – Easy port access
- JuiceNet app connectivity – Remote control and monitoring
Cons
- Issues with WiFi – Customer reports frequent WiFi failure
Enel X JuiceBox Smart EV Home Charging Station
Runner Up – Grizzl-E Level 2 EV Charger
Our Rating: 3.6/5
Manufactured in Canada, the Grizzl-E Level 2 EV charger features a 24-foot premium cable and has been IP67 rated for its resistance to natural elements. There is also the option to buy a 5-year warranty.
Beyond this, the EV charger has a range of safety features, including a built-in GFCI and over-temperature protection.
The Grizzl-E Level 2 EV Charger is somewhat less well-known than the JuiceBox, but I’ve included it as the runner-up pick because of its impressive functionality, durability, and ease of use.
Most Level 2 EV chargers deliver between 32 and 40 amps of charge current. However, with the Grizzl-E charger, you can actually adjust the amperage to 16, 24, 32, or 40 amps to fit your circuit breaker. This function provides a lot of flexibility in terms of installation and usage.
Speaking of installation, this process is easier with the Grizzl-E charger than with many other home chargers.
While many home EV chargers require professional electrical hardwiring, this unit does not. Instead, it comes with all the hardware you need to complete the installation once the requisite 14-50R outlet is installed.
Thanks to the highly durable casing surrounding this home EV charger’s electrical components, the Grizzl-E is fire-resistant and waterproof.
However, due to the thick, black casing, the unit is prone to overheating in direct sunlight, so it’s best to install it in a covered or shaded area.
In the event of a power outage, the Grizzl-E home charger can self-monitor and recover for continued, safe usage. Plus, the unit is fitted with built-in safety features to protect your electrics in case of over or under-voltage and overheating.
This means that even if your unit temporarily stops working due to excess heat, it shouldn’t suffer long-term.
Pros
- Adjustable amperage – 16 to 40 amps
- Waterproof and fire-resistant casing – Durable
- 24-foot cable – Easy connection
- Self-monitoring and recovery – Safe in a power outage
- Installation hardware included – Easy DIY installation
Cons
- Prone to overheating – Best suited to shaded areas
Grizzl-E Smart EV Home Charging Station
Best Budget – Morec 32 Amp EV Charger Level 2
It’s generally agreed that investing in a home EV charger is, over time, the most cost-effective option for charging your electric vehicle.
Still, many EV owners are put off making the switch from public to home charging due to the upfront cost of a home charger.
Luckily, contrary to popular belief, you don’t actually have to spend in excess of $500 to enjoy the numerous benefits of home charging. The Morec EV charger, for example, is a great budget-friendly option for your Tesla.
This is a 32-amp Level 2 charger capable of rapid charging. In addition, it comes with a 26-foot, built-in cable that leaves you with plenty of flexibility concerning where you park your car in relation to the charging station.
Using the clear and easy-to-read LCD display screen, you can monitor the status and progress of your vehicle’s charge.
The extensive electrical protection built into the unit is something we especially like about the Morec charger. The safety features of this home charger include protection against overcurrent and undercurrent, as well as leakage and overheating.
This charger doesn’t require hardwiring, so you can complete most of the installation yourself and detach the charger as needed for easy portability. All you need is a compatible 14-50 outlet, which costs much less to have professionally installed than a hardwired unit.
While this is generally a highly durable home charger, thanks to the tough ABS casing, there have been some reports from buyers about premature appliance failure.
Of course, this is not ideal. However, such incidents seem relatively infrequent and are met with a refund or replacement.
Pros
- ABS casing – Highly durable
- Built-in electrical protection – Superior safety
- LCD display screen – Intuitive monitoring
- 26-foot cable – Wide parking range
- Not hardwired – Portable and easy to install
Cons
- Some reports of premature failure – Inconsistent quality control
Best Premium – ChargePoint Home Flex Electric Vehicle Charger
Our Rating: 4.4/5
Cost
Power Delivery
Quality
Smart Features
Safety & Warranty
Value Bonus: +2 Quality, smart features, and safety/warranty
Total Score: 22/25
Full Review: ChargePoint Home Flex Review
If you’re willing to pay more for the convenience of a highly functional, smart home Tesla charger, I definitely recommend the
This is another home charger with adjustable amperage. You can set your charging current from 16 to 50 amps depending on how many amps your circuit is rated at. At 50 amps, the unit can deliver 37 miles worth of charge per hour!
The
While we’re on the subject of the installation process, you’ll also be able to cut down on your electrical installation bill with this charger. That’s because it only requires a plug-in installation, meaning that only the outlet itself needs to be professionally fitted.
Its ChargePoint app connectivity makes this home EV charger stand out from the competition. Connecting your charger to the ChargePoint app allows you to set a charging schedule and reminders and access all your charging data remotely.
However, the downside to the app is that it can only connect to one charging device at a time, meaning you can’t monitor 2 chargers simultaneously.
The charging cable built into the ChargePoint unit is 23 feet long, so accessing your charging port from the charging station should never be difficult.
Pros
- Flexible amperage – 16 to 50 amps
- Weather-safe casing – Safe for outdoor installation
- ChargePoint app connectivity – Remote monitoring and control
- 23-foot cable – Flexible and practical
- Plug-in installation – Easy and quick
Cons
- Only one charger per app – Smart connectivity does not extend to multiple units.
ChargePoint Home Flex EV Charging Station
Choosing an EV Home Charger for Your Tesla: Buyer’s Guide
Need more guidance on choosing your new Tesla charger? Keep reading for further information on all the key features you need to remember.
Related Articles:
How Much Does It Cost To Charge A Tesla Per Month?
How Much Does Your Electric Bill Go Up With A Tesla?
Charging Level / Amperage
Ideally, you will want to choose a Level 2 charger for your Tesla. And one that’ll deliver at least 40 amps to charge much faster than Level 1 units.
Most homes have a 240V outlet, typically for heavy appliances, so using your dryer outlet to charge your Tesla is an option. Technically, you can even use a regular 120V outlet charge, although it’ll be slow.
It’s worth bearing in mind that some EV home chargers offer adjustable amperage. This means that you can tailor the amperage output for maximum compatibility with your existing circuit rating.
While Level 2 chargers typically range between 32 and 40 amps, some Level 2 adjustable chargers can go as low as 16 amps and as high as 50 amps, so you have plenty of options.
Remember, the higher the amperage, the more miles of charge you’re likely to get per hour.
Smart Features
Smart connectivity is a highly desirable feature in a home EV charger. Smart charger manufacturers will often enable connectivity between the charging station and an app, through which you can control and monitor the charging process.
Some Smart charger apps even allow scheduling and setting reminders, making the charging experience much easier and more hands-free.
Cable Length
I recommend choosing a home EV charger for your Tesla with a cable that measures at least 20 feet. That’s the absolute bare minimum, and typically I’d suggest getting 25 feet.
This is because short cables can limit your ability to park in a way that allows access between the charging station and your vehicle’s charging port. The longer the cable, the more flexibility you’ll get to enjoy in terms of where you position your vehicle.
Safety Features
Built-in safety features are a must, especially if you want to install your charging station outside.
Always check that your new home charger comes with protection against overcurrent, undercurrent, leaks, overheating, and other electrical faults before you complete your purchase.
Additionally, a strong, weatherproof external casing will help to protect your home charger against the elements, including rain and moisture.
Installation
Many EV home chargers require installation by a professional electrician because they are designed to be hardwired. This can be quite costly and prevents you from using your new charger immediately.
Other home chargers require a simpler plug-in installation. You’ll need to install the compatible outlet before you can start charging, but this is something you may be able to do yourself with some guidance.
Remember, never attempt to conduct a hardwired installation yourself unless you are a qualified and experienced electrician.
The video below is from the excellent State of Charge YouTube channel, where they comprehensively review the Tesla Wall Connector. Enjoy!