If you have a Tesla, the fastest way to charge it is by using one of the Superchargers. Since most EV owners charge their EVs at home, it would be great to have access to these fast chargers at home. However, can you install a Supercharger at home?
Tesla Supercharger Explained
A Supercharger is a 480 V DC fast charger designed, installed, and maintained by Tesla. The company has more than 30,000 of these brightly colored chargers worldwide, and Tesla owners can rely on them to juice up their batteries when out.
Superchargers are fast, with up to 250 kW charging speeds, meaning you can add 200 miles to your car in just 15 minutes. They are even faster if you precondition your battery before you start charging. In addition, Superchargers are also very easy to use because all you have to do is plug in.
The popularity of the Superchargers has been a selling point for Tesla cars as the rapid chargers were exclusively for the cars made by the company.
Also, the chargers are among the most well-maintained, meaning you are more likely to find a working Supercharger than other charging networks. You can find the nearest Supercharger to you from the display inside your car or from the Tesla smartphone app.
Can You Install a Supercharger in your Home?
Due to the many benefits of Superchargers, it is tempting to install one in your garage, which you can use anytime you want.
However, for several reasons mentioned below, you can’t do that.
Requirements
Superchargers are a special class of devices because of their requirements. Due to the 480 V three-phase line needed to operate them, you will need to upgrade your home wiring seriously to be capable of supporting Superchargers.
Most residential power supply is on 240 V, meaning you will require a transformer to step up. You also need to install a breaker box rated for 480 V and can handle a three-phase line. Your installer also needs to throw in a correction capacitor, safety switch, etc., before you are good to go.
To run the required cable, some trenching may be necessary.
Permits
To install a Supercharger, you will need to wade through a pool of permits. Depending on where you live, the process could be overwhelming. For example, if you live in California, you must meet energy conservation requirements to get your permit.
Other permits necessary include Zoning Plan Check, Building Plan Check, Building Permit Processing, Country Fire Plan Check, Public Works (Drainage), etc.
It is dangerous to start installing your Supercharger without a permit as you could be fined and the project stopped.
Cost
As a DC fast charger, Superchargers are very expensive. While Tesla has not disclosed the cost of these rapid chargers, you can expect to spend tens of thousands of dollars procuring just one.
The cost of the charger itself is not the only expense you have to cover. Each of the components mentioned earlier must be purchased with funds from your pocket. For example, a suitable transformer costs between $30,000 and $40,000.
The breaker box could add another $5,500, while the safety switch could add another $6,000 to the bill. There are other costs to consider when installing a Supercharger at home.
These include site preparation, site assessment for permits, payment for the services of a technician or even a whole crew, etc. Tesla offers business owners the chance to host Superchargers.
This means the company will install multiple charging stations on your business property. It will also be responsible for the maintenance. The advantage to you is that it can attract potential customers to your premises. However, terms and conditions apply.
Conclusion
Tesla’s Superchargers are fast, easy to use, and popular. However, it is practically impossible to install them at home because of the costs, technical requirements, permits, etc. Alternatively, you can install Level 2 home charging stations, which may charge your car completely overnight.
