Tesla Universal Wall Connector Review

The Tesla Universal Wall Connector stands out for its versatility. It can charge both Tesla vehicles and J1772-compatible EVs, making it an excellent choice for households with multiple EV types. With up to 48 amps and 11.2 kW charging speed, it ensures efficient overnight charging for most modern electric vehicles. The 24-foot cable provides flexibility for easy parking and charging, while its durable design ensures long-lasting use. However, while robust, the fixed J1772 adapter could be a limitation for users seeking a more replaceable option.

Smart integration with the Tesla app enhances the user experience by providing real-time monitoring of charging status, energy consumption, and updates. This functionality allows for better energy management, making it a convenient solution for daily drivers. The connector is also future-proof, supporting Tesla’s Power Share technology, and ensuring compatibility with upcoming EV standards. However, users should be cautious of initial setup challenges, especially with complex EV charger installations like vehicle-to-home bi-directional charging. Ensuring they have professional EV charging installation tools and expertise for smooth installation is important.

The Tesla Universal Wall Connector installation is a hardwired installation that requires hiring a licensed electrician to ensure safety and proper setup. While the installation is generally straightforward for professionals, DIY attempts are not recommended due to the high electrical load. Safety features built into the design, such as robust materials and protective mechanisms, add peace of mind, but the non-replaceable adapter may frustrate some users.

Tesla Universal Wall Charger Installation

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how we installed the Tesla Universal Wall Charger for our Tesla Cybertruck, covering everything from wiring and conduit setup to making proper connections to ensure optimal charging performance at home:

Tools & Materials Needed:

• 60-amp double-pole breaker
• 6-gauge THHN or 6-gauge THWN-2 copper wire (two hot wires, L1 and L2)
• 10-gauge THHN or THWN-2 ground wire
• Conduit (PVC or EMT) – 3/4-inch for indoor or 1-inch for outdoor runs
• Manual hole punch
• Drill and core bits
• PVC adhesive and strain relief fittings
• Screwdrivers and torque wrench
• Tesla Universal Wall Charger

Tesla Universal Wall Charger Wiring Diagram (60A Installation)

At the end of the installation, your setup should mirror the following wiring diagram for the 60-amp Tesla Universal Wall Charger installation, showing the connection from the sub-panel to the charger:

Installation Steps:

Turn off the Power

Start by turning off the power at the main electrical panel to ensure safety while working on the circuit.

Prepare the Subpanel

• Install a dedicated 60-amp double-pole breaker into your subpanel.
• Use a manual hole punch to create a hole for the conduit, sizing it appropriately (1-inch for PVC).
• Connect two 6-gauge THWN-2 wires (L1 and L2) to the 60A circuit breaker
• Connect 10-gauge ground to the ground busbar)
• Use a torque wrench to properly tighten the ground wire to the ground bar (25 in-lbs for ground wire and 45 in-lbs for the breaker).

Exterior Conduit Installation

• Note and mark the charger installation point (point of use) which should be 4 ft above the floor, with at least 8 in of clearance around it
• Install the conduit from the electrical panel to the Tesla Universal Wall Connector point of use.
• Run the two 6-gauge THWN-2 wires (L1 and L2) (from the 60A dedicated circuit breaker) and a 10-gauge ground (from the ground busbar) wire through the conduit.
• Attach strain relief fittings on both ends of the conduit to keep the wires secure and prevent stress on the connections.

Mount the Charger

• Remove the charger faceplate
• Attach the Universal Wall Charger to the wall using anchors.
• Ensure the conduit is aligned with the charger’s strain relief box adapter, which will house the wire connections.

Wire the Charger

In some instances, passing inspection requires wires rated for at least 4 amps since the Tesla Wall Connector allows amperage adjustments via a smartphone app. Always consult a certified EV charger installer to verify the correct wire size.

• Feed the wires from the conduit into the charger.
• Connect the two 6-gauge hot wires to the L1 and L2 terminals inside the charger.
• Attach the 10-gauge ground wire to the charger’s ground terminal.
• Use a torque wrench to tighten the connections to 50 in-lbs (as specified in the Tesla charger manual).
• Reinstall the charger’s faceplate securely.

Connect and Test

• Plug in the Tesla Universal Wall Charger and scan the QR code to connect via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
• Test the charger by plugging in your Tesla and verifying that the charging rate is around 48 amps or 11-12 kW.

Expert Tip

We recommended sealing the edges of the conduit where it meets the wall using silicone sealant to prevent water or debris from entering.

Tesla Universal Wall Connector Installation (Hardwired Wiring Diagrams)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 48A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (60A Circuit Breaker)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 40A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (50A Circuit Breaker)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 32A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (40A Circuit Breaker)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 24A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (30A Circuit Breaker)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 16A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (20A Circuit Breaker)

Tesla Universal Wall Connector 12A Hardwire Wiring Diagram (15A Circuit Breaker)