Cost to Install a Tesla Charger at Home
Considering installing a Tesla charger at home? This guide will walk you through the cost to install a tesla charger at home.
So you’ve got a Tesla—or you’re thinking about getting one. Or maybe you have an EV and are just looking for compatible level 2 charging options.One of the first things people ask is: What’s the cost to install a Tesla charger at home?
Short answer? It depends. Long answer? Let’s break it down so you know what you’re getting into.
Which Tesla Charger Should You Install At Home?
There are three main ways to charge your Tesla or any EV for that matter:
- Level 1 - simple and affordable, but extremely slow
- Level 2 - a bit more complex that requires installation from a licensed electrician, although provides incredible convenience and the best charging experience
- Level 3 - the fastest way to charge, but relies on public charging stations and best for long road trips or when you need to get a full charge as quickly as possible
Level 2 chargers are the most practical option for the average EV driver that uses their car every day. To learn more about charging your Tesla, check out this ultimate guide to charging your EV.
Considering other chargers? Check out this resource for the best level 2 chargers.
What Tesla Charger Should I Buy?
Tesla offers several options when it comes to home charging.
1. Tesla Wall Connector
This is Tesla’s classic home charger that offers fast charging with a NACS connector. It charges up to 44 miles of range per hour and costs $420 on Tesla’s website. This is a practical choice for Tesla owners.
2. Tesla Universal Wall Connector
Consider this option an upgrade from the Tesla Wall Connector, offering NACS + J1772 - to provide an all-in-one solution working with both Teslas and non-Teslas.
Check out this resource for a comprehensive overview of NACS vs J1772 charging.
If you have more than one EV—or might have one in the future this is a great option. This is a sure choice if you have a household with different car brands and costs $595 on Tesla’s website.
To learn more about level 2 chargers and universal charging standards, check out this guide.
3. Tesla Mobile Connector
This charging option offers portability for those long road trips but does not offer a hardwired level 2 charging option. Using a standard outlet, you can add up to 3 miles of range per hour with the NEMA 5-15 Adapter. With a NEMA 14-50 Adapter you can add up to 30 miles of range depending on your vehicle. This is a good backup option for road trips or emergencies—but not for everyday use. The Tesla Mobile Charger costs $300 on Tesla’s website.
What Does It Cost to Install a Tesla Charger at Home?
If you’re serious about charging at home, a level 2 charger like the Wall Connector or Universal Wall Connector is the way to go. As far as breaking down the costs to install a Tesla charger at home, you need to consider materials, installation, and permitting.
1. Materials
This is the actual cost of the charger itself. Again, if considering a Tesla Wall Connector or Tesla Universal Wall Connector, you can expect to pay $420 or $595 in material costs.
Cost: $420 - $595
2. Installation
Installation typically requires the help of a licensed electrician who will mount the charger, run new wiring if needed, and connect it to your panel. These costs can be highly variable depending on your location and service providers in your area.
ChargerPro offers flat-rate installation of $895 (as of the writing of this article) providing EV owners with an affordable option to bring level 2 charging to their homes. You can check out evchargingexperts.com to find licensed electricians in your area that offer level 2 charging installation, costs, and reviews. Most electricians / companies charge $1,000+. When considering the installation cost to install a tesla charger at home, it is important to understand what installation includes. Most standard installations typically include:
- Labor
- Permitting
- Inspection
- Warranty
Depending on the complexity of your situation, there may be additional costs associated with:
- Long Wire Run (depending on distance from electrical panel to installation site)
- Need for a subpanel or electrical panel upgrade
It’s important to understand any additional costs associated with installation up-front so there are no surprises on the day of.
Cost: $900+
ChargerPro offers flat-rate transparent pricing and a seamless installation experience in just three simple steps. Our team will help you choose the best charger for your individual charging needs and walk you through the installation process completely hassle-free—no pressure, just answers.
3. Permits
Most cities / towns require a permit to install a level 2 EV charger in your home. If you use a professional installation company or licensed electrician, they will usually handle this for you. While variable depending on location, most permits cost in the ballpark of $100–$300. Check out this resource for more on permits.
Cost: $100 - $300
4. Electrical Upgrades
As previously mentioned, there could be additional costs associated with electrical upgrades if your panel is older or full. A licensed electrician can evaluate this and provide you with an appropriate recommendation. While this is dependent upon the home, it is certainly something to consider.
Typical cost: $2,000 - $5,000 (depending on your setup)
The All-In Cost To Install a Tesla Charger At Home
Assuming your home does not require any electrical upgrades, and you have a pretty standard installation need, the average total cost to install a Tesla charger at home usually falls between $1,500 – $2,000+ including the charger itself.
Is it worth it? If you drive your Tesla daily, a level 2 charger will absolutely provide the best charging experience. It saves time, offers unparalleled convenience, and offers a hassle-free experience associated with charging at public locations. The Tesla Wall Connector is perfect for most homes, but the Tesla Universal Wall Connector is the best option if you’ve got—or might get—a second or other type of EV.
The cost to install a Tesla charger at home might seem like a lot upfront, but it pays off every day you do not need to have to drive to a public charger. And with the Universal Wall Connector, you’re ready for whatever car comes next.
Thinking about installing a Tesla charger at home? ChargerPro can help. Reach out and we’ll walk you through your options and provide you an instant free quote. Simple as that.
