Before installing our Gen 3 Wall Connector, we opted for the Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger due to its plug-and-play features, unlike other models such as the Tesla Wall Connector that require complex hardwiring.
To our surprise, we continue to prefer the Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger over the hardwired Tesla Wall Connector. Even now, we use it more frequently, especially on sunny days when we utilize solar EV charging. This integration is cost-effective and reduces our continuous energy consumption compared to the Tesla Wall Connector, making our EV charging load management of renewable energy loads much simpler.
We recommend the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger for owners of Tesla Models X/Y/3/S who utilize a 110V or 120V electrical circuit and don’t have access to a 240V electrical circuit required for Level 2 EV charging. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for those with low-powered solar panels seeking to integrate solar-powered EV charging, offering savings on both installation and charging expenses.
In our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger review, we will highlight our experience using the charger, how we have installed the charger including EV charging accessories we have integrated into our electric vehicle branch circuit to improve our Tesla EV charging experience while using a Tesla Level 1 charger.
Table of Contents
Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger Review Summary.
Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger First Impressions
As a Tesla owner myself, the absence of a standard mobile charger with new Tesla purchases is a notable inconvenience, akin to Apple’s approach with accessories. Lectron steps in with its Level 1 charger, offering a more affordable alternative to Tesla’s proprietary options. Upon unboxing, the charger comes neatly packaged in a compact, lightweight carrying case reminiscent of Tesla’s attention to presentation.
The charger itself feels surprisingly premium, with a robust cable that exudes durability. What stands out immediately is its simplicity and universal compatibility; it features a North American standard plug, eliminating the need for additional adapters.
This makes it incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into any standard household outlet without hassle. The design includes a locking mechanism for secure connection to the vehicle, a feature that enhances ease of use and peace of mind during charging sessions.
During initial testing, the charger performed admirably, delivering 15 amps of current for approximately 5 miles of range per hour. This level of charging speed is sufficient for overnight replenishment, making it ideal for daily use or when traveling. Notably, it provides a slightly faster charging rate compared to Tesla’s own Level 1 charger, which is a practical advantage for those without access to a NEMA 14-50 or Level 2 charging infrastructure at home or who are waiting for a hardwired Tesla Wall Connector installation like us.
Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger Installation & Safety
The Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger is designed for installation in an existing 110V electrical outlet. However, new Tesla owners may encounter situations where they don’t have a nearby 110V outlet. This could happen, for instance, when gasoline car owners switch to electric vehicles. Others may have a 110V outlet but want to adjust its amperage to support the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger, whether upgrading or downgrading it.
To install the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger you will need a 20 amp dedicated circuit breaker wired with 12 AWG three-prong copper cables that connect the dedicated circuit breaker to the NEMA 5-15R outlet as shown in the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger branch circuit below:
To protect against overcurrent and prevent electrical fires, we’ve installed a Siemens Q120 20-Amp Single Pole Circuit Breaker (Type QP) that will trip in case of any issues with the electrical vehicle branch circuit and used 12 AWG copper wires instead of aluminum. Aluminum wires can melt under heavy loads, particularly during vehicle charging.
The 20 amp dedicated circuit breaker is connected to a NEMA 5-15R outlet, we use ELEGRP NEMA 5-15R outlets in all our Level 1 charger installations because of their high-impact resistant thermoplastic construction that makes them ideal for heavy-duty applications.
One of the issues we have witnessed with clients with a Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger is ground fault errors, by using the ELEGRP NEMA 5-15R outlet with self-grounding capabilities and a well-grounded Level 1 Tesla branch circuit you will not experience Tesla charging ground fault issues.
Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger Surge Protection Device Installation
We highly recommend installing a surge protection device to your Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger to protect against lightning strikes, short circuits, and Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger malfunction especially if you are installing the charger outdoors.
The diagram below shows how we have integrated a surge protection device into our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger installation.
Another reason why we have integrated a surge protection device into our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger is because our installation also used solar power to charge our Tesla, the surge protection device protects our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger installation from voltage spikes and sips when switching from grid power to solar power and vice versa.
We use the Intermatic AG3000 120/240 VAC Universal HVAC Surge Protective Device that provides added safety features for outdoor and wet conditions EV charging due to its watertight design.
We have said that we have integrated solar EV charging into our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger installation, here is how we did it:
Solar EV Charging with the Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger
The reason why chose to integrate solar charging with the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger instead of the Tesla Wall Connector is the cost involved in installations, and also provides reliable solar EV charging even when we have insufficient sun exposure.
Our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger solar EV charging branch circuit is shown below:
Features we have added to our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger solar EV charging include a transfer switch, an emergency power off button, a 20 amps shunt trip breaker, and a smart meter for monitoring our solar power production, and also how much energy the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger is pulling from both the grid and also solar power sources.
Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger Smart EV Charging
Tesla provides smart EV charging features that you can access through the Tesla infotainment system, however since we have integrated solar EV charging into our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger branch circuit we wanted a more advanced smart EV charging experience, and for this reason, we added a smart meter that will provide both smart EV charging features and solar monitoring capabilities.
The image below shows our smart meter integration with the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger for both grid and solar EV charging smart EV charging features and monitoring capabilities.
In our Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger branch circuit we have used the Sense Energy Monitor with Solar to monitor our solar energy production and also monitor the the load being pulled by the Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger.
Sense tracks electricity usage and Lectron Level 1 Tesla charger patterns, providing personalized notifications. With rigorous safety certifications from ETL/Intertek for reliable performance in electrical panels across the US and Canada, Sense stands apart in ensuring safety and efficiency.
Conclusions.
The Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger emerges as a versatile and cost-effective solution for Tesla owners seeking reliable home charging. From its impressive first impressions with a sleek design and user-friendly features to its straightforward installation and robust safety measures, this charger proves to be a practical choice for everyday use. Integrating a Surge Protection Device enhances its safety profile, ensuring peace of mind during charging sessions.
Moreover, the ability to harness solar power for EV charging underscores its commitment to sustainability and efficiency, offering an environmentally friendly option for users with solar panels. The Smart EV Charging capabilities further enhance convenience, allowing for optimized charging schedules and energy management.
Overall, the Lectron Level 1 Tesla Charger stands out for its affordability, reliability, and ease of use, making it a recommended option for Tesla Models X/Y/3/S owners looking to enhance their charging experience at home or on the road. Whether you’re prioritizing cost savings, environmental impact, or simply practicality, this charger delivers on all fronts, ensuring a seamless charging solution for Tesla enthusiasts.
About the Author: James Ndungu
James Ndungu, founder and editor-in-chief of Electric Vehicle Geek, brings over five years of hands-on experience in Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) selection, permitting, and installation. He specializes in assisting businesses and homeowners in the United States with a seamless transition to electric vehicles.
As a certified EV charger installer and holder of advanced certifications, including the EVITP (Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program), Diploma in Electric Vehicle Technology, and Diploma in Engineering Fundamentals of Electric Vehicles, I provide expert guidance and in-depth reviews on the latest EV charging equipment.
Last update on 2024-10-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
