Tesla Owners of British Columbia
Charging Guide by Kelly Saunders, Abstract Energy
Our newest Sponsor, Abstract Energy has created a charging guide for new and existing owners.
For the best ownership experience, it is important to have a charging solution in place that doesn’t require thinking ahead each time you need to plug in. This guide provides an overview of your charging options and helpful tips on how to hire the right electrician for your home installation.
Home Charging
Charging with a 120v wall outlet will not provide enough range for most drivers, so it’s best to install a 240v charging solution at home and plug in every night – this ensures a full charge every morning without any hassle or stress. There are 3 options for home charging:
- 240v Outlet – this is the cheapest option and allows you to plug directly into the wall with your Mobile Connector Bundle and a NEMA adapter (14-50 is the most common). You can charge at a maximum of 32A (40-48 km of range per hour), which is more than enough for most drivers.
- Tesla Wall Connector – this option provides the best experience and is the fastest way to charge your Tesla at home. Most Model S, X and 3 LR vehicles can charge at a maximum of 48A (66-80 km of range per hour). NOTE: Model 3 SR can charge at a maximum of 32A.
- J1772 Charging Station – this is the least desirable option because these stations are typically more expensive and you will need to use your J1772 adapter every time you charge. However, the J1772 plug is universal and can be the best option if you share charging with a non-Tesla EV.
Whichever option you choose, make sure to get multiple estimates from reputable electricians that specialize in EV charging. Price is important, but don’t let it be the only factor in your decision – If you think hiring a professional is expensive, wait until you hire an amateur. Getting multiple estimates will create competition for your installation, but it does require significant effort and coordination.
If you are looking for the easiest way to get multiple estimates from reputable electricians, Abstract Energy will streamline this process for you. No need to juggle contractors, the team will complete a single site inspection and then invite top-rated installers to compete for the electrical work. You select the winner based on availability and price. Please see Abstract Energy for details on how to get an estimate.
Tesla Supercharger Network
The Supercharger Network is the fastest way to charge your Tesla and can provide a full charge in 75 minutes. There are now over 1,500 Supercharger Stations and 13,000 Superchargers in the world, strategically located along major road trip routes near restaurants and other amenities. The new Urban Superchargers are designed to serve local owners that are unable to install charging at home or work.
Tesla Destination Network
The Destination Network is a convenient way for Tesla owners to charge at hotels, restaurants and shopping centres. These strategic partners offer free charging as a way to attract Tesla owners to their business. Charging speeds vary by location, but each Wall Connector should provide at least 40 km of range per hour.
Public Charging
The best way to see all public charging stations is with Plugshare – you can download the app or visit their website. Your Tesla comes with a J1772 adapter, which allows you to plug into any Level 2 charging station. Unfortunately, only Model S and X have access to the Level 3 CHAdeMO network at this time. If you are planning a trip, do your research in advance because some charging networks will require you to register before plugging in. Some charging stations are free, but most will require payment.
About the Author
Kelly Saunders is a Board Member at the Tesla Owners Club of BC and the President of Abstract Energy . As an early employee with Tesla Vancouver back in 2015, he began providing vehicle walkthroughs for new owners, then was promoted to oversee delivery operations, and then all Used Tesla sales and trade-ins across Western Canada.
