Can You Plug a Tesla Into a Regular Outlet? Best Home Charger for Tesla
The short answer is yes, you can plug a Tesla into a regular 120-volt outlet using the Mobile Connector that comes with the vehicle. However, this method is highly impractical due to its extremely slow charging speed. For instance, it typically adds only 3-5 miles of range per hour of charging, which is insufficient for daily use, especially if you drive frequently.
The Best Home Charger for Tesla
The best home charger for a Tesla is typically the Tesla Wall Connector. This unit offers numerous advantages over a regular outlet:
Faster Charging: It can charge Tesla vehicles at a speed of up to 44 miles of range per hour (depending on the model and electrical configuration). Flexible Installation: It can be hardwired to your electrical system or plugged in, offering flexibility based on your home setup. Smart Features: It features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for software updates and monitoring of the charging process through the Tesla app. Compatibility: It is specifically designed for Tesla vehicles but can also be used with other electric vehicles (EVs) with the appropriate adapter. Other Level 2 Chargers: Level 2 chargers from other brands like ChargePoint, JuiceBox, and ClipperCreek are also excellent options, providing similar charging speeds.Considerations for Installation: To ensure safety and compliance with local electrical codes, it is advisable to have a licensed electrician install the Tesla Wall Connector. This will guarantee that it can handle the power requirements efficiently.
Every Tesla Comes with a 110V Charger
While every Tesla includes a 110V charger, it is slow and can only be used effectively for overnight charging if you drive very little distance. For anyone in need of faster charging, Tesla offers a Level 2 charger that runs off the house mains, but this usually requires hiring an electrician. Alternatively, you can use the built-in charger with the Mobile Connector to plug into a regular wall outlet.
Charging Points in the U.S.
Most EVs come with a charging cord that can plug into a regular wall outlet, but the charging speed is very slow—around 10-12 amps, equivalent to 1 kW. This method is sufficient for daily charging but too slow for long trips. Long distance EV charging networks, such as Level II charge points, are becoming more common, offering power at rates up to 7 kW. These charge points can fully charge most cars overnight and are increasingly available in hotels and motels.
Tesla specifically has an adapter plug that fits the Level II charge point slot, enabling the use of Level II charging stations. For truly long distance driving, direct DC chargers are required, capable of charging in as little as 20-45 minutes to 80% capacity, allowing for quicker and more convenient travel. Most cars today offer this option, and Tesla has around a few thousand of these chargers scattered across highly traveled routes in the U.S. However, it is important to note that charging infrastructure is still evolving, and existing networks like Chargepoint, EVGO, Greenlots, Blink, and others are still maturing in terms of coverage and reliability.
For those looking to future-proof their travel, it may be wise to own or rent a hybrid car to take advantage of both charging methods. To find the best networks with reservable stations, you can check out the following resources for detailed information: