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Tesla’s innovative electric vehicles require a dependable charging solution. When garage space is at a premium or non-existent, the logistics of charging can pose some unique challenges.
This article explores the dynamics of managing your Tesla charging cable in conjunction with a garage door, and alternative solutions when a garage is not at your disposal.
Tesla Charging Cable: The Garage Door Pass-Through
Tesla vehicles come equipped with a robust 20-foot charging cable designed to plug into a home charging station or a standard electrical outlet, thanks to a set of handy adapters.
While the norm is to charge the vehicle within the confines of a garage, sometimes necessity dictates that the charging cable navigates the realm under the garage door to juice up the Tesla parked outside.
Typically, this entails leaving a small 1 to 2-inch clearance under the garage door to slide the charging cable through to the awaiting Tesla. To minimize cable stretching, it’s common practice to reverse park the Tesla close to the garage door.
Extension Cord Under the Garage Door: Safe or Not?
Employing an extension cord under the garage door is generally safe, given that both the cable and door are encapsulated in durable rubber.
Flat wire extension cords are preferable, as they are less likely to be crushed.
However, caution is advised against completely closing the garage door on an extension cord, especially if a rubber seal is absent at the bottom.
As a precaution, wrapping the cord in a towel or cushioning material can help mitigate the pressure.
Driving Over The Tesla Charging Cable: A Good Idea?
While Tesla’s charging cable is robust enough to handle being driven over, repetitive occurrences could signify neglect, posing tripping hazards for family members or pedestrians.
A simple solution is to use a cord shield to cover the cable, minimizing the tripping risk and potential damage from vehicles.
Mounting Your Tesla Charging Cable
For Tesla wall charger owners, particularly those with third-generation models, the charging cable conveniently wraps around the unit.
In the absence of a Tesla charger or with older models, it’s prudent to mount the cable close to the power outlet to maximize the usable cable length.
Tesla Charging Solutions Sans Garage
Without a garage, an outdoor outlet is your go-to for charging your Tesla. It’s advisable to consult with electricians for a proper connection setup.
Tesla vehicles can charge via a standard 110-volt outlet using an adapter, although this method significantly extends the charging time compared to a dedicated charging station.
For apartment dwellers or those in rental communities, dialoguing with property management about installing electric vehicle (EV) stations could be a viable solution. Alternatively, locating a nearby public charging station is a solid option.
The U.S. Department of Energy provides a comprehensive list of public charging stations to help find one near you.
In Conclusion
Navigating the Tesla charging cable under a garage door is a viable and relatively safe solution for charging your vehicle. Ensuring the cable is well-protected and minimizing any potential hazards are key to a smooth charging experience. For those without a garage, exploring alternative charging solutions like outdoor outlets or nearby public charging stations ensures your Tesla remains powered up and ready to hit the road.
