Introduction

Owning a Tesla electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting and environmentally-friendly choice, but it can also come with unique challenges, including the need for charging. Tesla owners must plan where and when to charge their vehicles to avoid running out of battery power unexpectedly. However, with a little knowledge and preparation, charging a Tesla can be easy and accessible. In this article, we’ll explore various charging methods and locations to help you keep your Tesla charged up and ready to go.

Using a Tesla Home Charger

One of the most convenient and cost-effective options for charging a Tesla is installing a home charger. Not only does it save time and money, but it also gives you control over your car’s charging schedule.

There are numerous benefits of having a home charger. Firstly, it eliminates the need to travel to charging stations regularly, saving time and hassle. Secondly, charging at home is usually less expensive than public charging. Finally, using a home charger means that you can wake up each morning to a fully charged car, ready for your daily commute.

Tesla home chargers are easy to install, and most electrical contractors can perform the job. However, it is important to have a licensed electrician install the charger for you as the electrical requirements and the charging installation codes are different from conventional outlets.

One has to install a 240V circuit, a NEMA 14-50 outlet, along with the Wall Connector, which is the charging unit. The outlet should preferably be installed somewhere near the vehicle’s parking spot for convenience.

Once installed, charging a Tesla at home is easy and intuitive. Just plug in the charging cable, and the car will begin charging automatically. The typical time for a full charge is between 6 to 12 hours, depending on the battery’s current charge level and the size of the battery pack.

Using Public Charging Stations

Public charging stations offer a convenient way to charge your Tesla outside of the home. However, there are several different types of public charging stations.

The most common types of public chargers are Level 2 station and the Level 3 or DC fast chargers. The Level 2 charging station uses a 240V outlet and offers a charging rate of around 20-50 miles per hour. Level 3 chargers are found on highways and in some commercial buildings, and they are much faster than Level 2 chargers. These can charge a Tesla at a rate equivalent to 170-200 miles of range in 30 minutes.

Most public charging stations are located in easily accessible locations such as roadside rest areas, shopping malls, and offices. Tesla’s own Destination Chargers can be found at hotels and restaurants in cities and regions across the country. Some businesses offer free charging for their customers, while others require payment for the service.

To locate a public charger, you can use Tesla’s navigation system or third-party apps such as PlugShare. Once you arrive at the charging station, you’ll need to use either a Tesla charging adapter or the J1772 charging cable provided by the charging station.

Charging at Work

If your workplace offers EV charging, it can be a convenient and cost-effective way to keep your Tesla charged while you work. Some workplaces now have EV charging stations installed for their employees, allowing them to conveniently charge during the workday.

To take advantage of workplace EV charging, you need to coordinate and come to an agreement with your employer about your charging needs. They will have to install a Level 2 charging station or provide access to one for their employees.

Once that is set up, all you have to do is plug your vehicle into the charging station when you arrive at work and unplug it when you leave. You can set the car to charge based on your planned departure time or simply let it charge all day. Charging at work is an excellent way to save time and money, and it is also environmentally friendly as it reduces the number of trips to public charging stations.

Tesla Supercharging

Tesla Superchargers are high-speed charging stations designed for long-distance travel. Once you reach around 20% battery life you can charge with a Supercharger. It is always advisable to use Superchargers for long journeys since they charge the car to 80% within 30-45 minutes. This is faster than other public charging stations.

Tesla Superchargers are not found in as many locations as public charging stations, but there are several hundred located across the country. Superchargers are typically located in commercial areas near major highways or travel destinations. Tesla owners can use the car’s navigation system to locate nearby Superchargers.

To use a Supercharger, simply pull into the charging stall and plug in the car’s charging cable. The car will communicate with the Supercharger station, and the session will begin automatically. Understandably, using a Supercharger has a higher cost than charging at home or using public charging, but it ensures quicker charging when you need it most.

Charging While Traveling

When traveling long distances, you may need to use third-party charging networks. There are several EV charging networks, including ChargePoint and EVgo. These networks offer access to thousands of public charging stations in many locations across the country.

To plan a route based on charging location availability, use Tesla’s navigation system, which identifies charging stations along your planned route. You can set charging stops along the way and let the car guide you to each station. Be careful to consider the time required to charge different charging levels when planning your route.

It is recommended to budget for the cost of charging on longer trips, as it can add up quickly, especially if the charging station requires payment for the service. However, it is worth noting that some hotels offer free charging services, so consider that option when planning your journey.

Maximizing Battery Life

To optimize Tesla charging and maximize battery life, there are a few things to keep in mind. For starters, avoid draining the battery completely before charging. It is best practice to never exceed 90% of the battery capacity unless making a long trip.

The frequency and duration of charging sessions also affect battery life. Generally speaking, it is best to limit charging sessions to around 80% capacity unless extended travel is imminent. On average, it is best to keep the battery level between 20% and 80%.

Both high-temperature conditions and overusing fast charging can damage the battery. Tesla owners should avoid charging the vehicle in high-temperature environments, and only use Superchargers or other fast-charging stations when necessary for longer trips.

Conclusion

In summary, there are various ways to keep your Tesla charged, whether it is at home or on-the-go. Using a home charger can be a cost-effective and hassle-free way to charge daily. Public charging stations are a convenient option when you are on the road or away from home. Tesla Superchargers are designed to provide quick charging during long journeys, while charging at work is another cost-effective option.

If you own a Tesla, take some time to experiment with the various charging methods and find what works best for you. With proper planning and knowledge, you can enjoy the ownership of your Tesla EV completely stress-free.