How Long Does It Take To Charge A Tesla With A Home Charger?

As a new Tesla owner, you must be wondering “How long does it take to charge a Tesla with a home charger?”

Well, the answer is not the same for everyone. It depends on varying home charger types, Tesla models, state of charge, temperature, and electrical infrastructure.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Understanding Tesla Home Charging

Of course, charging your Tesla at home is the most convenient way to make your vehicle ready when you need it. For the best results, Tesla usually recommends using a Level 2 charger, such as the Tesla Wall Connector.

This charger operates at 240 volts and delivers up to 11.5 kilowatts (kW) of power, significantly faster than a standard 120-volt household outlet (Level 1 charger). The time it takes to charge is determined by the Tesla model, battery size, and charger specifications.

Level 1 Charging: The Slow Option

If you’re using a standard 120-volt household outlet (Level 1 charging), the charging speed is slow, adding about 3-5 miles of range per hour. Tesla Model 3 comes with a battery capacity of nearly 50-82 kWh depending on the variant. So, a full charge from empty can take 2-3 days.

This method is rarely used for daily charging but can work if you drive short distances and have time to spare. For most owners, Level 1 charging is a backup option rather than a primary solution.

Level 2 Charging: The Home Charging Sweet Spot

A Level 2 charger, operating at a Tesla charging time of 220v (or 240 volts), is the go-to choice for most Tesla owners. The Tesla Wall Connector, a popular Level 2 charger, can deliver up to 11.5 kW of power at 48 amps. Here’s how this translates to charging speeds for different Tesla models:

• Model 3: Adds up to 44 miles of range per hour. A full charge takes about 8-10 hours.
• Model S: Adds up to 41 miles per hour. A full charge takes around 8-10 hours.
• Model X: Adds up to 35 miles per hour. A full charge takes approximately 10-12 hours.
• Model Y: Adds up to 44 miles per hour. A full charge takes about 8-10 hours.
• Cybertruck: Adds up to 30 miles per hour. A full charge may take 10-12 hours due to its larger battery.

These times assume charging from empty to full, which isn’t a common practice. Most Tesla owners charge from 20-30% to 80-90% to preserve battery health, reducing the Tesla charge time to 6-8 hours overnight. This makes Level 2 charging ideal for daily use, as you can plug in at night and wake up to a fully charged vehicle.

Factors Affecting Home Charging Time

Several factors influence how long it takes to charge a Tesla with a home charger:

1. Charger Power Output: A 48-amp Level 2 charger (11.5 kW) charges faster than a 32-amp (7.6 kW) or 40-amp (9.6 kW) charger. Some older Tesla models or lower-end variants may be limited to 7.6 kW, slightly slowing the process.
2. Battery Size: Larger batteries, like those in the Model X or Cybertruck, take longer to charge than smaller ones, like the Model 3 Standard Range.
3. Charging Habits: Charging to 80-90% instead of 100% reduces charging time and extends battery life.
4. Electrical Setup: If your home’s electrical system supports only lower amperage (e.g., 16 or 24 amps), charging will be slower, adding 15-22 miles per hour depending on the model.

For example, using a 24-amp Level 2 charger, a Model 3 gains about 22 miles per hour, extending the full charge time to 12-14 hours. If you’re using a dryer outlet with a 24-amp charger, this might still be sufficient for overnight charging.

Tesla Model 3 Charging Time, Range, and Cost

The Tesla Model 3 is one of the most popular EV models, so let’s zoom in on its charging specifics. With a Level 2 charger at 11.5 kW, the Model 3 can gain 44 miles of range per hour. For a Model 3 Long Range with a 75 kWh battery and an EPA-estimated range of 341 miles, a full charge takes about 8-10 hours. Charging from 20% to 80% typically takes 5-7 hours, which is ideal for overnight charging.

As for cost, this depends on your local electricity rates. The national average in the U.S. is about $0.14 per kWh. Charging a Model 3 Long Range from 20% to 80% (roughly 60 kWh) costs around $8.40. Compare this to gasoline costs for a similar range, and the savings are clear. Plus, charging at home eliminates the need for frequent trips to public chargers, saving time and hassle.

Tesla Destination Chargers and Public Charging Options

While home charging is the primary focus, Tesla destination chargers offer a convenient alternative when you’re out and about. These are Level 2 chargers found at hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. They typically deliver 6-7 kW, adding 20-30 miles of range per hour. For a Model 3, a full charge at a destination charger might take 14-18 hours, making them better suited for topping off during a meal or overnight stay at a hotel.

Public Level 2 chargers using the J1772 connector (accessible with the adapter included with your Tesla) offer similar speeds. However, for faster charging on the go, Tesla’s Superchargers are the best option, adding up to 200 miles in just 15 minutes. Superchargers are ideal for road trips but less relevant for daily home charging.

Tips for Optimizing Home Charging

To make the most of your home charging setup:

• Install a Tesla Wall Connector: This maximizes charging speed and convenience.
• Charge Overnight: Take advantage of off-peak electricity rates to save money.
• Set a Charge Limit: Use the Tesla app to limit charging to 80-90% for better battery health.
• Precondition the Battery: In cold weather, preconditioning can improve charging efficiency.
• Upgrade Your Electrical System: Ensure your home supports a 48-amp charger for the fastest speeds.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to charge a Tesla with a home charger? With a Level 2 charger like the Tesla Wall Connector, most Tesla models, including the Model 3, take 8-10 hours for a full charge, or 6-8 hours for a typical 20-80% charge. This makes overnight charging a breeze. By understanding Tesla Model 3 charging time, range, and cost, and considering options like Tesla destination chargers or Tesla charging time 220v, you can optimize your EV experience. Charging your Tesla at home is convenient and functional as well, helping you make the most of your Tesla ownership.