The high voltage systems on electric vehicles can be dangerous. So if you notice your Tesla smoking while charging, it’s worth investigating. 

There are many reasons why a Tesla might create smoke while charging. Some are serious problems while others are routine events you don’t need to worry about.

What Is White Smoke?

If you notice white smoke coming out of your Tesla, you might not have anything to worry about. Infact, white smoke is most often water vapor or steam.

Tesla cars don’t create heat like combustion engines. But it is normal for their batteries, motors, and electrical systems to get warm. At times, it can be enough to vaporize water resting on these areas into steam. 

And the result is white smoke. This happens more often in cold weather, in a similar way that exhaling air from your lungs does.

There are times when white smoke might show something more harmful. When that’s the case, it usually comes with a bad smell. It might have a slight blue or black tint as well.

Is It Okay for Tesla To Smoke While Charging?

In some conditions, it is normal for a Tesla to smoke while charging. But there are other times when it is not alright and you need to take action.

Acceptable smoke is particularly common in cold or wet weather. As the electrical system warms up during the charging process, you might see white vapor.

Your Tesla will turn on its heat pump to warm up the battery when charging in cold weather. This prevents damage as you don’t want to charge a cold battery. It will then switch to maintaining a lower temperature as the battery warms up. These swings in function and temperature can cause some white smoke.

But if the smoke is black or blue and has a strange smell, you should stop charging right away. 

Black or gray smoke indicates something is burning. It is likely a plastic material that is around an electrical current. Blue smoke with a pungent smell may mean an electrical fire, which could be coming from your battery. 

Do not charge or use the vehicle if you notice either one of these types of smoke.

Why Is Tesla Smoking While Charging?

Let’s review the main reasons why your Tesla might be smoking while charging. 

1. Cold Weather While Charging

It is common to see some white smoke while charging a Tesla in cold weather, especially from the front grill.

The radiator at the front of your vehicle acts as a condenser. It sometimes releases a vapor that is more prominent and visible in cold weather.

2. Wet Weather While Charging

The same white vapor is also more likely during wet weather charging. Once again, there is an excess buildup of water. It turns to vapor as part of the charging temperature regulation process. It is no cause for concern, as long as it is white with no smell.

The refrigerant compressor or fan might also make noise during these charging situations. 

3. Heat Pump

Tesla heat pumps are amazing devices. They help heat and cool your vehicle in an energy-efficient manner. One of the byproducts of this component is water vapor. As mentioned above, it is the most common in cold and wet weather conditions because:

1. The heat pump first warms up the battery for charging. Then it shifts to cooling as the battery absorbs the energy
2. Cold weather makes water vapor in the air more likely to be visible
3. The excess humidity in the air during wet weather allows for more areas where it might evaporate off of

4. Plastic Parts Burning

If you smell plastic parts burning, be concerned. This could be some of the wiring harness, battery housing, or other parts starting to melt. This is a problem with the system.

Any battery can fail and release its energy in the form of a fire, Tesla cars included. These can be very hard to put out. You need to treat them with a lot of caution. 

5. Overcharging

The battery and charger of every Tesla use advanced technology. They help it charge at a reasonable rate and stop when the battery is full. But in rare times, the battery management system or charge controller can fail.

If this happens and too much energy gets into your battery, you might see smoke, smell a foul odor, or notice fire.

6. Damaged Battery

If your battery is damaged by either running something over or a fault in the system, it can cause a fire. The fires that can come from Tesla batteries are very serious. They are high-capacity battery packs with a lot of energy stored inside.

If you ever suspect you have a damaged battery, make a Service Appointment. Get it tested and inspected right away.

7. Electrical Short

Every electrical system is made so that the current follows a particular path at particular currents and voltage levels. But life happens and so do electrical shorts.

A short circuit happens when the electricity flows through a path it is not supposed to. It may also exceed the ratings it needs to stay under. 

Your Tesla’s wiring and electrical system incorporate fuses and safety items. These stop problems from getting out of control most of the time. But if you notice anything, such as a blown fuse, blue or black smoke, or a burning smell, it may be an electrical short.

Quick Check: Steam or Smoke?

There are a few easy ways to determine if the white smoke you see is steam or actual smoke from something burning. If the answers to these questions are “yes”, then it’s more likely to be steam:

• Does it dissipate quickly?
• Does the smoke feel wet or have moisture in it? (use care to avoid burns)
• Is it only around in cold or wet weather?
• Does it have very little if any smell?

What Should You Do for Black Smoking While Charging?

If you notice black smoke while charging, immediately remove it from the charger. Use the Tesla SOS button or call Tesla support for help. You likely need to have a professional take a look as soon as possible. 

If you notice a fire, clear the area and call emergency services right away.

Our Verdict

Smoke while charging a Tesla is usually water vapor. It happens when the temperature control systems help keep the battery warm or cool. But if you smell something foul or see any colored smoke, it’s likely a bigger problem.

Want to learn more about your Tesla charging system? Head over to our article on the Tesla Supercharger.

The post Addressing Concerns: Tesla Smoking While Charging appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

Walmart has recently released a plan to build thousands of more electric charging stations nationwide to extend its charging network by 2030.

With already 1,300 charging stations, this addition would be very convenient for local shoppers. At least one Walmart or Sam’s Club is located within 10 miles of a Walmart.

How fast are these Walmart EV chargers, though? Do they charge all kinds of electric cars?

Walmart’s EV Charging Networks

Walmart currently offers on-site charging for electric cars at select stores in the US. Customers can charge while shopping or eating.

Walmart joined Electrify back in 2019 to install chargers across their shops to promote environmental sustainability.

They have installed both faster chargers at 350kW and regular chargers at 150kW.

Walmart now wants to add even more EV chargers without being third-party-owned. This could see improved prices for Walmart customers and a more streamlined charging process.

Can I Charge My Electric Car At Walmart?

The EV chargers at Walmart use all the popular EV charging ports from big names like Tesla, Nissan, and Volkswagen.

Walmart’s chargers are located conveniently along major highway routes in the US. With talks to build in more rural areas, there is no reason why you wouldn’t be able to find a nearby Walmart EV charger.

How Do I Use An EV Charger At Walmart?

With plans for Walmart-owned EV chargers, we could see how we use these chargers to change.

But for now, to use these electric chargers, you follow the standard charging procedure

• Download the Electrify America charging app.
• Find a Walmart charging station near you.
• Open the vehicle charging port and connect the charger from its holster.
• Plug in, leave the charger, and check the status via the app to see when you are done.

How Much Does Walmart Charging Stations Cost?

There are a few different factors that influence the cost of charging your electric car at Walmart.

The state can affect charging costs, depending on if they charge in kWh or by minute, plus the model of your car and the size of its battery.

For example, charging a Tesla with a 54KwH battery from 0-100% per kWh at a Walmart charging station will cost you 43 cents per kWh, so a full charge would be around $23.

By minute, it will cost 32 cents if you use a fast charger of 350kWh. This goes down to 12 cents if using a 90kWh charger.

The best way to save money using a Walmart charger is to get the Electrify America pass, it gives you a discount on your charging fees.

How Do I Pay?

To pay for charging at a Walmart EV station, you can either pay via the Electrify app or the display’s credit card reader.

How Long Does It Take To Charge My Car At Walmart?

On average, it will take between 20-30 minutes to charge your car from 0-80% at a Walmart charging station.

Charging speed and time depend on the connector you are using and the model of your car.

For example, if you use the 350kWh charger at Walmart, this supercharger could give your car 20 miles of range in just one minute.

Walmart also has a slower 150kWh charger. This is the better choice if your electric car’s battery has a maximum charging speed limit of 150kWh.

How Do I Find A Walmart Charging Station Near Me?

With more Walmart charging stations around the US, finding one is easier than ever.

Use Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the easiest ways to find EV charging stations near you. To find Walmart charging stations, follow these steps.

1. First, tell google the type of plug you have. You can do this by clicking your profile icon, then scrolling down to settings, and clicking electric vehicle. You will then be able to choose the compatible plug for your car.
2. Then, open maps and go to services. Click electric charging stations and sort by relevance or distance.

Try An App

There are many handy apps like Electrify and Plugshare in the US that can help you find charging stations near you. These apps allow you to filter stations by cost and charging adapters.

Check On Walmart.Com

Walmart has a handy charging map on its site that highlights all its current US charging stations.

Using Your Sat Nav

Most modern Sat Navs in your car can track electric charging stations near you. This software will be in-built if you have an electric car like Tesla.

Your sat nav will be able to guide you to the nearest Walmart charging station, remember to take into account your current charger level and distance.

Are There Any Benefits To Using Walmart Charging Stations?

Apart from the convenience of the locations, there are lots of advantages to using Walmart charging stations.

Advantages

• There are discounted rates as a Walmart customer.
• You can track the charging process via the Walmart app.
• Renewable energy sources power all.

Disadvantages

• It could be slower than using a home charger.
• Added expenses over time.

Our Verdict

With an ever-growing network of Walmart charging stations, charging your electric car on the road is easier than ever.

Compared to other EV charging stations, Walmart’s charging stations offer convenience and affordability.

Check our guide to find hotels with a Tesla charger!

The post Walmart Charging Station Guide appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

If you’re considering switching to an electric car or buying a Tesla, getting familiar with charging your vehicle can be a little overwhelming.

But no worries, charging a Tesla at home is simple, convenient, and can save you money over time with these soaring gas prices. 

Our guide below will discuss how to charge and how much it costs so that you have everything you need to know.

The Three Ways You Can Charge A Tesla At Home 

Before you begin to charge your Tesla at home, you need to consider the type of charger you need: this will be either a wall connector, mobile charger or via solar panels. 

The Tesla wall connector is the best and most common option for charging your Tesla at home. Installation costs vary, but on average, it will cost you around $400.

This wall connector gives you 44 miles of range per hour, making a full charge possible overnight. 

The second option is a Tesla mobile charger, which costs around $200. 

These mobile chargers are convenient since they can be plugged into a standard wall outlet but only charge 2-3 miles per hour.

Lastly, one of the most economical ways to charge your Tesla is via solar panels. 

You would need around 10 solar panels rated at 300 watts each to charge a Tesla battery, this would equal to a 30 mile distance in a day which is sufficient for most average drivers.

How To Use The Tesla Wall Connector 

Although you will likely need a professional to install your Tesla wall connector, it only takes a few hours and doesn’t require any change to your home’s electrical setup. 

You can follow these five easy steps to use your Tesla wall connector below.

1. Press the button on the handle of your charger to open the car’s vehicle charging port, or you can press down either the vehicle touch screen/app to open it.
2. Now insert the charger and double-check it’s charging correctly; if so, there will be a green LED.
3. To remove, press down and ensure the vehicle is unlocked, then wrap counterclockwise around the wall connector and insert the charger handle into the holster.

How To Set Up The Wi-Fi On Your Tesla Wall Connector (Gen 3)

The generation three wall charger has a Wi-Fi connection, allowing you to receive over-air updates from your Tesla while charging. 

To set up your Wi-Fi, follow the steps below.

1. Turn the wall charger on and either scan the QR code on your quick start guide or find it on your networks; you must enter the six-digit code found on the short start guide.
2. This will bring you to a page in your web browser. Click Wi-Fi out of the four options, enter the password, and you should be connected.

What The LED Lights Mean On Your Wall Connector Charger

Understanding the LED lights on your Tesla wall connector charger is helpful for knowing the different charging stages.  

We’ve listed what each color means below.

• Solid green at the top – Charge is on standby and ready to be plugged in.
• Solid blue at the top – The charger communicates with the car or is on schedule.
• Greenlight streaming down – Charger is plugged in and charging.
• Red light – There is a fault with the charger.

How To Use The Tesla Mobile Charger

The Tesla mobile chargers are ideal if you’re after a cheap portable option: they charge very slowly, however.

These chargers are simple to use. Just make sure you have the right adapter for your wall socket then plug into the wall and then into your Tesla.

What Are The Pros & Cons Of Charging A Tesla At Home?

Home charging has many advantages over using Tesla charging stations, but some drawbacks are also involved. 

Pros of Charging A Tesla At Home

• You can leave your Tesla to charge overnight till full
• It allows you to set different charging schedules
• Save on installation costs (if using a mobile charger)
• No service fee

Cons of Charging A Tesla At Home

• Slow charging speeds
• No supercharger options

How Fast Can I Charge A Tesla At Home?

The speed you can charge your Tesla at home changes according to the model’s battery size and the power delivery you have. 

On average, the fastest wall connector can charge your battery 44 miles per hour. This means you will have a full battery in around 6-10 hours, depending on the power delivery of the charger.

But a wall charger with 6.6-10kW of power which delivers 20-30 miles per hour, should also be sufficient. This allows you to get around 40 miles of range within 2 hours, an average distance covered for most drivers each day.

How Much Does It Cost To Charge A Tesla At Home?

The cost of charging a Tesla at home varies according to the size of the battery pack the car has and the cost of electricity where you are. 

On average, a Tesla will cost you between $12-$18 to fully charge its battery, making it cheaper per mile than a gas car.

For example, in British Columbia, it will cost you around $6 for an overnight charge, where electricity costs you 9.39 cents a KwH.

For battery size, the longer the range, the higher the cost; For example, a model 3 standard car costs an average of $8 to fully charge with a 50kWh. An 82kWh battery on the other hand costs about $13.50.

A Model X with a 100kWh battery will cost $16.50 to charge due to its larger battery pack. The same goes for the Model S. 

A Tesla Model Y, on average, with a 75kWh battery pack, costs $12.35 to charge fully.

Click to calculate charging your Tesla car

How To Reduce The Costs Of Charging Your Tesla 

Home charging is much more affordable than supercharging your Tesla due to the more energy these DC chargers use. 

A Tesla Model X could cost up to $23 to charge at one of these stations.

We’ve listed two ways below to help you further reduce your electric car’s charging costs.

• Charge at off peak hours – To keep costs low when charging your Tesla, it’s best to charge at off-peak hours, typically overnight.
• Don’t fast charge – Despite rumors, superchargers are expensive to use and not free for Tesla users. Furthermore, there was a sharp incline in their price in 2022, so we suggest only using them for emergencies. 

FAQs About Charging Your Tesla At Home

What is the best time to charge Tesla at home?

The best time to charge a Tesla at home is overnight to 90%; You can set this in the charging schedule. This is because it’s most convenient and cheaper. After all, it is off-peak hours.

How Fast Can You Charge a Tesla?

On average, you can charge a Tesla to full battery in 6-10 hours; times change according to the battery size in the model or the charger you are using.

How Long Does a Tesla Car Battery Last?

A Tesla car battery lasts an average of 10-20 years, equal to around 300,000 to 500,000 miles.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Tesla Charging at Home?

To get a Tesla charger at home, installation costs can be around $400 or more, depending on your electricity setup and the charger you choose. 

Mobile connectors are cheaper at $200 but take longer to charge.

Can You Charge a Tesla with a Regular Outlet?

You can charge your Tesla with any standard 110V/120V outlet with a NEMA 5-15 adapter.

Is It Safe to Charge a Tesla from a 110v Outlet?

Charging a Tesla from a 110V outlet is safe using the adapter included with your Tesla. But remember, it will charge slowly at around 3 miles per hour.

What’s the Cheapest Time to Charge a Tesla at Home? 

The cheapest time to charge a Tesla is overnight via a wall connector at level 2 because it is off-peak hours.

Our Verdict

Charging a Tesla at home is the most affordable and convenient way to charge your car. Superchargers can charge faster but cost more, plus, it can’t be installed at home.

Home chargers give more than enough range in a few hours for the average driver, and you will rarely need to use a supercharger on the road.

The post How To Charge A Tesla At Home appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

Are you tired of tangled cords and messy charging stations? Look no further than the Best Tesla Charging Cable Organizer, the solution to your electric vehicle charging woes.

I reviewed several Tesla charging cable organizers and found that the BMZX Tesla Charger Holder is the best overall cable organizer.

Ready to upgrade your charging setup? Check out our review of the Best Tesla Charging Cable Organizers.

Our Tesla Charging Cable Organizer

• BMZX Tesla Charger Holder– Best Overall
• TOPlight Tesla Charging Cable Organizer– Easy to Install
• BougeRV Charger Holder– Best For Cute Style
• Spigen Bespoke Cable Organizer– Best For Dry Walls
• PHEOKER Tesla Mobile Charger Wall Mount– Best For Minimalist Style

Best Tesla Charging Cable Organizer Reviewed 

BMZX Tesla Charger Holder– Best Overall

Experience ultimate convenience and organization with the BMZX Tesla Charger Holder Cable Organizer. Crafted in sleek black and designed with a gentle curve, this hook is four inches wide at its widest point and stands tall at seven inches.

The hook flaunts a sturdy and reliable socket at the bottom to plug in your charger. A distinctive built-in hook feature ensures your charger is locked in place securely. With an intelligent mechanism in place, the charger cable cannot be pulled out straight. Instead, lift it to free it from the hook and pull it out.

This Charging Cable Organizer has a rectangular holster tailor-made for your Tesla Mobile Connector. It’s sleek and chic, in matching black plastic to the cable hook, with four screws to firmly hold it. The BMZX Tesla Charger Holder sits well with the LENZ J1772 Charging Adapter for Tesla Model 3 Y S and X.

Pros

• Simple installation
• Can withstand the test of time

Cons

• Some users may not sit well with the plastic build
• The base of the holder might be too narrow for some chargers

TOPlight Tesla Charging Cable Organizer– Easy to Install

Designed with efficiency and style, it is easy-to-set-up device ensures your cable is in perfect shape whenever needed.

With its lightweight construction and easy-to-follow installation guide. The organizer comes with adjustable magnets that keep your cable in place while allowing easy removal.

You can adjust the locking mechanism to secure your cable without worries about it getting loose or slipping away.

When installing the cable organizer, place it at a higher angle and lower it once in place so that it sits on the clip.

But that’s not all – TOPlight’s Tesla Cable Organizer has a built-in LED that makes it easy to locate in the dark. 

Pros

• Supports up to 20 feet of charging cords
• Has a straightforward setup
• Sturdy and durable

Cons

• Some users may find the installation instructions to be quite shallow
• Anchors and screws may not hold the organizer in place for a lengthy period

BougeRV Charger Holder– Best For Cute Style

Stylish and easy to use are words that best describe the BougeRV Charger Holder. Made from durable material that can withstand the test of time. This charging cable organizer boasts an adjustable and secure hook-and-loop fastener. It also has an anti-slip locking mechanism to prevent the cables from slipping out of place.

The BougeRV Charger Holder has two mounting options. Screws or adhesive strips so you can mount it wherever you prefer, indoors or outdoors. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and can accommodate up to 10 feet of cable length. And with its arm holder, it holds your charging cable when unplugged.

Pros

• Comes with an easy-to-read installation guide
• Ideal for Tesla Model 3/Y/X/S, Gen 1&2 mobile chargers
• Comes with a chassis holder that protects the control box and plugs from wear and tear

Cons

• The anchors included in the purchase may not be ideal for a drywall
• The charger holder may not be suitable for overhead mounting

Spigen Bespoke Cable Organizer– Best For Dry Walls

Its unique two-tone design makes the oval-shaped hook wider at the top and narrower at the bottom.

Depending on the version ordered, the hook’s central body is black and accented by a white or dark silver ring. It is made of durable plastic and secured to the wall with four screws. And a set of masonry anchors is included in the kit.

The kit also includes a narrow, flat wall plate that easily screws into the wall. The main hook body slides over it and sits snugly against the wall, so it keeps your cables organized and out of sight.

Like the Seven Sparta holder, this kit also includes a mount for your Tesla Mobile Connector. The simple plastic frame does the job and eliminates the need to buy any extra fasteners.

Pros

• Compatible with any Telsa mobile connector
• Ideal for drywall installation
• Comes in a sleek and stylish design

Cons

• It may not be ideal for wall studs installation
• It may need an extensive clearance space

PHEOKER Tesla Mobile Charger Wall Mount– Best For Minimalist Style

This wall mount organizer keeps your mobile connector neatly coiled, and securely stowed, transforming any outlet into a sleek charging station.

Specifically designed for the Tesla Gen 2 Universal Mobile Connector. The sturdy bracket wraps cords out of sight while the charger holder prevents wear and tear. This versatile organizer supports both orientations for maximum convenience.

Solidly built from premium plastics, it installs in moments. And holds your charger handle in place so it won’t slip or fall, even when using a J1772 adapter. End the chaos of loose cords and give your Tesla the showcase it deserves. This high-tech organizer brings order to your charging station so you can power up in style.

Pros

• Ideal for Tesla Gen 2 Universal Mobile Connector
• Simple installation
• Portable

Cons

• Some users may not sit well with its plastic build
• The installation may not be very user-friendly

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for an effortless way to house your charging cable, the BMZX Tesla charger holder is an ideal solution. This organizer facilitates safe and reliable cable storage.

You might be interested in ‘How Long Does It Take To Charge A Tesla?‘

The post Best Tesla Charging Cable Organizer appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

Do you choose Tesla as your first electric vehicle? Are you concerned about charging-related issues?

Are you worried about how and where to charge your Tesla or how long it will last between charges? Is there a way to quickly charge a Tesla in an emergency?

Luckily, we’ve done extensive research and have the answers below.

The Battery Capacity Of A Tesla

The battery capacity of your Tesla will vary depending on the model. For example, a 2023 Model 3 will range from 50 to 82 kWh, while the Model Y ranges from 67.6 to 81 kWh.

That’s not even including the Tesla Model S and X, which have a battery capacity of 100 kWh. Tesla vehicles come in different models and driving ranges, some shorter-distance and others long-range.

How Do I Charge My Tesla? What Are The Different Charging Levels?

Once you have your Tesla and it’s time to charge, this should be straightforward. Here are a few ways to do this for a Model 3:

• Touch Controls and touch the Charge Port icon.
• Navigate to Controls > Charging > Open Charge Port.
• Press the bottom of the charge port door when your car is unlocked.
• Press and hold the rear trunk button on your fob key for 1-2 seconds.
• Find the Voice Commands feature inside your vehicle to open the charge port door.

Luckily, these troubleshooting techniques should work for any Tesla model.

Level 1

Level one charging is 120 volts and is better suited for overnight, in-garage charging. With level one, your vehicle should charge by the following day if you plug it in when you get home, so this is the slowest option.

The level one charger uses the standard 110/120V electric outlet, like most electronics you can buy at the store. It will give you at least two miles of Tesla range per hour of charging and up to four depending on the outlet/power.

Level 2

Next, we have a level two Tesla charger. With this option, you have double the power of a level one charging station, with roughly 240 volts.

This type of charger is better for quick charging between driving, delivering anywhere from 3.3 – 17.2 kW of power. Furthermore, this should give your Tesla 10-52 miles of range per hour charging.

Level 3

Lastly, you have the Tesla level three charging option. Also known as a ‘Supercharger‘, this will give you the quickest charge time among the three levels.

For example, when using a Supercharger, your Tesla can recover up to 75 miles of charge in 5 minutes and charge up to 1,000 miles per hour. You might see these at charging stations at the mall, grocery, airport, hotel, etc., so they’re the favorite one among EV drivers.

Does A Tesla Need To Be Fully Charged?

No. Although you can charge your vehicle up to 100%, this is optional for shorter-span driving. According toTesla, it’s better to charge your car within the ‘Daily’ range bracket, up to approximately 90%.

In most cases, users of Li-ion battery vehicles charged them to 80% or 90% for shorter-distance “regular” driving. However, for Model 3 and Model Y rear-wheel drive models with lithium iron acid (LFP) batteries: you should charge them to 100%.

Of course, some drivers charge their Teslas to 100% once weekly, drive until the battery notifies them it needs a charge, and repeat this cycle. You just don’t want to charge your Tesla 100% daily, as this isn’t necessary and can harm the battery.

Moreover, if the vehicle has been parked for over a week, Tesla recommends charging 100% as soon as possible.

How Fast Do They Charge?

When it comes to charging speeds for your Tesla vehicle, this will vary depending on the type of charger you use.

For instance, here are some estimated charge times/speeds based on the charging method being used for a Tesla:

• Wall Connector up to 44 miles of range per hour charged.
• Mobile Connectors and Adapters: A 120-volt outlet will supply 2 to 3 miles of range per hour charged.
• Superchargers-charge your car up to 200 miles in 15 minutes.

Calculating How Long Your Tesla Battery Will Charge

• Model 3-8.5 to 10 hours at 220V, 1 hour at 440V
• Model Y-11.5 to 11.8 hours at 220V
• Model X-14 hours at 220V, 0.75 hours at 440V
• Model S-15 hours at 220V, 0.75 hours at 440V

So, if you use a level one or even level two charger for your Tesla, it could take overnight to fully charge (or charge to 80-90%).

Additionally, if you can access a Supercharger, this will cut down your car’s average charge time to around an hour.

How Much Does It Cost To Charge A Tesla?

Depending on the battery capacity of a Tesla, this can impact how much it costs to charge it. However, for most Teslas, it costs between $9.62 to $18.30 to fully charge one.

Teslas use a unique charging adapter, although you can use a J1772 adapter to charge at most EV charging stations.

Here are some estimates based on a driver going 50 miles each day in their Tesla:

• Model S – $1.94 per day
• Model 3 – $1.73 per day
• Model X – $2.28 per day
• Model Y – $1.94 per day

One thing to mention is that these figures are based on at-home charging and the national average for residential energy being $0.14 per kilowatt-hour.

You might also be able to charge your car for free at public EV stations, so to save money each week: heading to one might be a better choice. As we covered, there are charging stations at many malls, hotels, restaurants, and public spaces for drivers on the road.

How Do I Know My Tesla Is Done Charging?

One of the easiest ways to tell your Tesla is done charging is to look at the charge port. During the charge, this port will have a pulsing green light.

Your car’s port will be green with no pulse when it is done charging. Think of this as the Tesla charging port turning solid green rather than flashing. Tesla also mentions the frequency at which the green charge port light pulses slows as the charge level approaches full.

You should also check the charging status on your Tesla app, which is the fastest way to see real-time stats for your vehicle.

Our Verdict

Whether you have owned a Tesla before or this is your first time with one: charging it is essential.

On top of that, a Supercharger is generally the best way to quickly charge a Tesla, as it takes anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour to give your car an almost-full charge.

Regardless, you can plug your car in overnight at home or charge during the day at work or school.

You may be wondering if you can charge Tesla in the rain, have a look at our page!

The post How Long Does It Take To Charge A Tesla? appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

It’s possible to drive an EV no matter where your travels take you. All you need to know is where to go and what hotels to visit to charge up when the need arises. 

So if you need to find hotels with a Tesla charger, you’ve come to the right guide. I want to share my survey after 15 hours of research. They’re reliable, reputable, and convenient and can help you charge your car. 

EV Charger Hotel Apps and Sites

Many EV charger hotel apps can help you locate a hotel with a charging station for your Tesla. Below we have briefly discussed each of these apps to give you a better idea of what to expect when using them. If you don’t want to use these, you can consult the Tesla site to see where they have available charging stations. 

EV Hotels App

One of the best international apps to use to find where to stay and where to charge your Tesla is the EV Hotels app. This iOS app is easy to use and lists more than 25,000 EV hotels with charging stations for your Tesla. 

The EV Hotels app also shows more than 250,000 hotels worldwide. As an added benefit, it displays the locations of over 100,000 roadside charging stations. This is uber convenient when you can’t get to a hotel without replenishing your vehicle’s battery power. 

Additionally, this charging app allows you to earn rewards. You can also select your favorite hotel and enjoy customizable features. For example, you can customize the walking distance from your Tesla charging spot to a hotel. Then you can narrow down which hotels have a charger on site. Even though the app isn’t free, $2.99 is a small price for peace of mind. 

Download: Couchsurfing for Android | iOS
Price: The app costs $2.99

Chargehotels.com

If you’re after a sustainable holiday, you might want to consider using the Charge Hotels app. This app aims to create a more environmentally friendly world through sustainable travel. That’s why they offer drivers the chance to search through more than 150 eco-friendly hotels. 

Also, you can use this app to find a hotel with an electric vehicle charging station. Most of the accommodations listed are eco-friendly. Thus you won’t spend hours searching for one with a Tesla charger only to come out empty-handed. 

This app also has many partnerships, one of which is with WheelMaps. This is an app that helps disabled people travel sustainably and safely. 

Hotel4EV.com

This hotel site might not be as intuitive as the others on our list, but it helps find hotels with a Tesla charger. It’s important to note, though, that this app caters to those who live in Europe, so American drivers don’t use it as often. 

This site will tell you not just which hotels have charging stations for your Tesla, it also tells you the estimated fee and whether the charging spot is in a parking lot or garage. This will help you with your budgeting. You’ll be able to estimate more or less how much it will cost to charge your Tesla when on holiday or a trip.

StaynCharge

StaynCharge is one of the best user-friendly websites to find hotels with a Tesla charger. This one-stop website lets you type in your destination and shows you a range of hotels with EV chargers. 

When using StaynCharge, you can compare hotel prices and book through the website. This makes the entire process simpler and more efficient when you’re planning a road trip in your Tesla. 

Also, with StaynCharge, you can view entire hotel profiles and reviews. This will help you make sure you’re choosing the right destination. 

Travel Website For EV Chargers

Now that we have looked at EV apps and sites, we want to tell you about travel websites. Many travel websites allow you to find hotels with EV chargers for your Tesla. Have a look below to learn more about how to use these travel websites to find a Tesla charger:

Hotels.com

In the search bar, type in your destination. Once done, you need to expand the ‘Amenities’ section. Then choose ‘Electric Vehicle Charging Point’. When this is selected, it will filter your results and only show you accommodations that can charge your Tesla. 

Trip Advisor

This is one of the most popular hotels search and review sites, especially for those wanting to filter by EV charging. Simply search for hotels at your destination, then expand the ‘Amenities’ filter on the left-hand side. Once you’ve done this, you must select the ‘EV Charging’ options and then click it to apply the search criteria. 

Expedia

Like the other two travel websites, Expedia is easy to navigate. You start by typing in your desired destination. Then you need only expand the ‘Amenities’ section. After doing this, choose ‘EV Charging Station’. It will filter to show you only the hotels that can charge your vehicle. 

Kayak

You might not have heard about this travel website, but it’s becoming popular. You must follow the same steps as the other travel websites to find accommodations with a Tesla charging station. 

Booking.com

This is by far one of the most popular travel websites. As with the others on this list, choose a destination. Then select an ‘EV Charging Station’ filter to see suitable results. 

Hotel Chains With EV Charger Stations

Many hotel chains have EV charger stations to charge your Tesla. Below we have discussed five of them. This will give you an idea of where you can stay during road trips to charge your Tesla hassle-free. 

Holiday Inn

Holiday Inn is one of the most reliable options if you’re seeking a hotel with a Tesla charger. This holiday chain has many locations worldwide. Many of these locations have EV charging stations. Recent estimates show Holiday Inn has more than 1000 EV charging stations globally. 

Hilton

The Hilton hotel chain is one of the biggest globally. Unlike other hotel chains, Hilton provides four charging stations, one of which is the Tesla wall charging unit. This unit is only compatible with Teslas, and the other three are suitable for other EVS. 

Additionally, Hilton has been pushing to expand its EV charging station locations. That’s why they have installed thousands to keep up with the demand. As you can imagine, their growing sustainability-driven customer base isn’t complaining. 

Best Western

In the last five years, thousands of EV charging stations have been installed at Best Western hotels. This hotel chain has charging stations for Teslas and other EVs across many locations. 

Best Western believes having charging stations attracts new customers. They also believe that EV charging stations help them achieve sustainability goals. This move to be more eco-friendly has made Best Western hotels a leader in green initiatives. It has also made them a popular destination for EV drivers. 

Marriott

Unlike other hotel chains, this one does things differently. Marriot has equipped many of its hotels worldwide with fast EV charging stations. These are capable of charging Teslas. This hotel has more than 3,000 charging stations across all its hotels. They also have plans to install more within the next few years. 

Also, most Marriot hotels provide EV electric charging stations free of charge. Yet, be sure to find out before charging up your Tesla to avoid any potential budgeting stresses. 

Radisson

If you own a Tesla, you might want to consider making Radisson hotels your first choice. This hotel chain has partnered with Tesla. They have done this to give drivers access to convenient, fast charging stations. The Radisson also offers free EV charger use at its Destination Chargers throughout the US. 

Our Verdict

This guide will help you find hotels with electric vehicle chargers for a Tesla. As you can see, you can use many online websites and tools. Many hotel chains are also guaranteed to have electric vehicle charging facilities. So consult this guide when booking a road trip with your Tesla. 

The post Quick Find Hotels With A Tesla Charger  appeared first on Tesla Shooters.

New owners always worry: Is it safe to use a charger for Tesla in the rain?

The Tesla superchargers run on a 400 volts power supply. Such high voltages are life-threatening if handled without the necessary protection measures. The charger has a protection mechanism that protects you and the car in case of a fault. 

Tesla chargers are robust, waterproof, and can withstand all weather conditions.  You are safe when charging your car in the rain.

This article will take you through safety measures when using Tesla chargers. We will highlight crucial safety mechanisms of Tesla chargers.

Construction of the Charger 

The Tesla charger has two crucial parts which must connect for the car to charge. The charging station has a male port, while the car has a female charge port, and the two connect when charging. Additionally, the charger has a relay that turns on the power when it is safe to charge.

The charging cord has insignificant power when not connected to a car; hence it is safe to lift and carry. Furthermore, the charger has a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection system. The GFCI system protects you, the charger, and the car if a fault results from poor wiring and water leakages. 

The Tesla Wall Connectors (TWC) and outdoor charging stations are NEMA 3R rated. The chargers can withstand environmental hazards, including heavy rains, dust, and snow. 

Can I Charge My Tesla in the Rain?

Yes, you can charge your Tesla when it is raining. Tesla chargers have a higher power supply than normal household equipment. The charger is designed to work in various weather conditions.

When charging in the rain,  you can take personal precautionary measures. Ensure water does not get into the charging port of your car. If there is water, the charger will not charge, which is part of its protection mechanism. 

Each Tesla charger is tested during the manufacturing process. The chargers are waterproof and dustproof. 

Tesla has installed intelligent charging systems with robust, water-resistant structures. The intelligent system detects any water leakage once it communicates with the car. When a car is connected for charging, the intelligent system will notify the user if there is water leakage. 

Would You Charge Tesla in a Thunderstorm?

No.Thunderstorms can damage an electric car. Tesla advises its customers to refrain from charging their cars during thunderstorms. Thunderstorms pose a more severe threat when using electricity than typical rains. Charge your car before or after a thunderstorm has passed. 

Thunderstorms are electrical storms, and they discharge electrical power to the ground. The electrical power in thunderstorms can cause death and damage to property. Surge currents from a thunderstorm can damage the internal circuits of a car. 

Is the Tesla Charging Port Waterproof? 

The charging port is designed to be waterproof when closed. If you close the charging port after using it, it will remain dry even when you drive in the rain. The charger may not work if you leave it open because water and snow can damage the electrical circuits. 

Tesla advises users to close the ports after charging. The protection mechanism of the charger prevents it from charging when wet. If you find your car’s charging port is wet, visit certified dealer for inspection. 

We recommend you ensure that the charging port remains closed when not charging. If left open, snow and water can accumulate and damage the charger. 

Is the Tesla Mobile Charger Waterproof? 

No, the mobile charger is not waterproof, and you should ensure it is dry and used in a dry environment. The charger is more portable, and the user should ensure it is dry during use and storage. 

When you purchase a new car, Tesla provides you with a Generation 2 mobile connector. This charger can be destroyed if water gets into the charge panel. The Tesla Corded Mobile connector should also be used and stored in a dry environment. 

Is it Necessary to Have an Outdoor Cover Over Your Tesla Mobile Charger? 

We recommend using a watertight cover when installing outdoor plug-in units.  Outdoors, Tesla chargers are exposed to various weather conditions. Dust, snow, and rain can damage mobile chargers. 

The Tesla generation 2 mobile connector with a 50-ampere receptacle is waterproof. This mobile charger can be installed in outdoor locations without extra protection. 

You should ensure snow does not accumulate around the charger and cause obstruction. Outdoor installations are hardwired and watertight, which provides adequate protection against harsh weather.

There are various mobile Tesla chargers, and they have different protection mechanisms. Some chargers may not require an outdoor cover. Before using a charger, read its manual or seek professional advice on the charger you are using.

Our Verdict

The safety of customers is paramount to Tesla. Tesla has produced electric cars and chargers without a lot of safety concerns. The superchargers run at a voltage higher than the typical household level. Therefore, it is crucial for chargers to have robust protection mechanisms.  The Tesla charging port is waterproof. As part of its protection mechanism, the charger is designed not to charge when wet.  

Outdoor charging stations are waterproof and dustproof. The chargers are robust and hardwired and can withstand all types of weather. Some Tesla mobile chargers are not waterproof and should only be used in a dry environment. It is crucial to always understand the protection levels of a charger before using it. 

Thunderstorms have a large amount of electrical power, which is a safety threat. High voltage in thunderstorms can damage car. Tesla advises its customers to avoid using charging stations when there are thunderstorms. We recommend you wait for a thunderstorm to pass, then charge your car. 

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