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When installing a Tesla wall charger, choosing the right breaker size is crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of your charging system.
This blog post will provide an overview of the different factors to consider when choosing a breaker size, including wire gauge, charger settings, and local electrical codes.
Understanding Breaker Sizes for Tesla Wall Chargers
Tesla wall chargers can be used with a variety of breaker sizes, depending on the charger model, wire gauge, and the distance between the charger and the electrical panel.
However, the most common breaker sizes for Tesla wall chargers are 50 and 60 amp breakers[1].
In general, a 50 amp breaker can fully charge a Tesla vehicle overnight, but a 60 amp breaker can provide faster charging if the appropriate wire gauge and charger settings are used[1].
Wire Gauge Considerations
The wire gauge plays a significant role in determining the appropriate breaker size for your Tesla wall charger. In general, a 6 gauge Romex wire is not rated high enough for a 60 amp circuit and should be used with a 50 amp breaker instead[1].
However, if you use a 6 gauge THHN wire in conduit, the circuit can handle a 60 amp breaker[2].
It’s essential to consider the type of wire used and the distance between the charger and the electrical panel when choosing a breaker size.
For instance, a 6AWG type NM wire can be used on circuits up to 55 amps, while individual 6AWG conductors such as THHN or THWN run in conduit can be used in circuits up to 65 or 75 amps[2].
Breaker Heating: What’s Normal?
It’s not uncommon for breakers to heat up during use, but there is a difference between a warm breaker and a hot breaker. Warm breakers are generally considered normal, while hot breakers can indicate a problem[2].
Wire size and breaker rating do not necessarily impact breaker heating, but it’s essential to ensure that the wire gauge and breaker size are appropriate for the charger and local electrical code requirements.
Dealing with Breaker Shortages and Alternative Solutions
In some cases, you may encounter difficulties sourcing the appropriate breaker size for your Tesla wall charger due to shortages or other factors[3]. If you cannot find a 60 amp breaker, you may need to consider alternative solutions, such as using a different breaker size or upgrading your electrical panel.
When faced with a breaker shortage, some Tesla wall charger users have considered using
oversized breakers as a temporary solution[3]. However, this can be a safety concern if the wiring is not of the correct size and does not meet code requirements. It’s generally recommended to use the appropriate breaker size for your charger and wire gauge, as the breaker should be the weakest link in the circuit to minimize the risk of fire.
If your electrical panel has a lower capacity, such as 100 amps, you may wonder if a Tesla wall charger can work with a 20 or 30 amp breaker[4]. The Tesla wall charger installation manual allows settings to be adjusted to 15 to 60 amps, depending on your specific needs. However, it’s essential to ensure that the wiring is adequate for the breaker being installed.
Consulting an Electrician and Performing Load Calculations
When determining the appropriate breaker size for your Tesla wall charger, it’s crucial to consult a licensed electrician and follow local code requirements to ensure the safety and proper functioning of the installation.
An electrician can perform a load calculation to determine the largest charging circuit your current electrical service can support[4].
Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
In some cases, you may need to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate a Tesla wall charger.
Upgrading to a 200-amp panel, installing a subpanel, or checking local EV incentive programs can help you make the necessary adjustments to ensure your charging system is safe and efficient[4].
Adjusting Charger Settings for Breaker Size
It’s essential to set your Tesla wall charger to the appropriate breaker size to ensure safe and efficient charging. For example, if you use a 50 amp breaker with a 6AWG romex wire, you should set the charging level to 40 amps instead of 44 amps[2].
The rotary setting in the installation manual can help you determine the correct charging level for your specific breaker size and wire gauge.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right breaker size for your Tesla wall charger is a crucial aspect of ensuring a safe and efficient charging system.
By considering factors such as wire gauge, charger settings, and local electrical codes, you can determine the appropriate breaker size for your charging needs. Don’t hesitate to consult a licensed electrician and follow local code requirements to ensure the safety and proper functioning of your Tesla wall charger installation.
