As electric vehicles become mainstream, home charging isn't just convenient—it's essential. Here's everything St. Louis and St. Charles County homeowners need to know about EV charger installation in 2026.
Why Home EV Charging Matters
The days of relying solely on public charging stations are over. With over 60% of EV charging happening at home, a properly installed home charger transforms your garage into your personal fueling station.
The Real Cost of Not Having Home Charging
Without home charging: - Average of $0.31-0.43/kWh at public fast chargers - Time spent traveling to and waiting at charging stations - Wear on battery from frequent fast charging - Uncertainty about charger availability
With home charging: - Average of $0.08-0.12/kWh (St. Louis area residential rates) - Charge overnight while you sleep - Battery-friendly Level 2 charging - Always start your day with a full charge
Understanding EV Charging Levels
Level 1 Charging (120V) - Uses standard household outlet - Adds 3-5 miles of range per hour - No installation required - Best for: PHEVs or minimal daily driving (<30 miles)
Level 2 Charging (240V) - Recommended - Requires dedicated circuit installation - Adds 25-35 miles of range per hour - Full charge overnight for most vehicles - Best for: All EVs with regular daily use
Level 3/DC Fast Charging - Commercial installations only - Not suitable for residential use - Reserved for road trips and emergencies
Popular EV Chargers for St. Louis Homes
Tesla Wall Connector - Power: Up to 48 amps (11.5 kW) - Best for: Tesla owners - Features: WiFi connectivity, power sharing - Cost: $475 + installation
ChargePoint Home Flex - Power: 16-50 amps (adjustable) - Best for: Multi-vehicle households - Features: Universal J1772, app control - Cost: $649 + installation
Grizzl-E Classic - Power: Up to 40 amps (9.6 kW) - Best for: Budget-conscious buyers - Features: NEMA 4 weatherproof, simple operation - Cost: $399 + installation
Emporia Smart EVSE - Power: Up to 48 amps - Best for: Solar integration - Features: Energy monitoring, load management - Cost: $449 + installation
Electrical Requirements for EV Charger Installation
Panel Capacity Assessment
Most Level 2 chargers require 40-60 amp circuits. Your electrical panel needs:
| Charger Amperage | Circuit Breaker | Wire Size |
|---|---|---|
| 32 amps | 40 amp | 8 AWG |
| 40 amps | 50 amp | 6 AWG |
| 48 amps | 60 amp | 6 AWG |
Panel upgrade indicators: - Current panel under 200 amps - Limited available breaker slots - Older fuse panels - Multiple high-draw appliances
Installation Location Considerations
Garage installation (most common): - Protected from weather - Shortest cable run typical - Easy access to panel
Outdoor installation: - Requires NEMA 4 rated charger - Underground conduit often needed - Consider driveway positioning
Detached garage: - May require sub-panel installation - Longer wire runs increase cost - Trenching for underground conduit
The Installation Process
Step 1: Site Assessment Our licensed electrician evaluates: - Panel capacity and available circuits - Optimal charger placement - Cable routing options - Permit requirements
Step 2: Permit Application St. Charles and St. Louis County require permits for EV charger installation. We handle: - Permit applications - Plan submissions - Scheduling inspections
Step 3: Installation Day Typical installation includes: - Circuit breaker installation - Conduit and wire routing - Charger mounting - Connection and testing
Timeline: Most installations complete in 2-4 hours
Step 4: Inspection and Activation - Schedule county inspection - Verify proper operation - Review charging settings - Demonstrate app features (if applicable)
Installation Costs in St. Louis Area
Basic Installation: $500-$800 Includes: - Panel within 25 feet of charger - Surface-mounted conduit - Standard 40-amp circuit - Permit and inspection
Standard Installation: $800-$1,500 Includes: - Longer cable runs (25-50 feet) - Some wall penetrations - 50-60 amp circuit - Permit and inspection
Complex Installation: $1,500-$3,000+ May include: - Panel upgrades - Detached garage runs - Underground conduit - Sub-panel installation
Utility Incentives and Rebates
Ameren Missouri Programs - Charge Ahead program offering rebates - Time-of-use rate options for EV owners - Potential demand response credits
Federal Tax Credit - 30% credit for charger and installation - Up to $1,000 maximum - Available through 2032
Smart Charging Features Worth Having
Scheduled charging: Set charging to start during off-peak hours (typically 9 PM - 6 AM for lowest rates)
Load management: Balances charger with other home loads to prevent panel overload
Solar integration: Charges from excess solar production when available
Usage tracking: Monitor energy consumption and costs per charge session
Preparing Your Home for EV Charging
Before Scheduling Installation
- Check your panel: Note amperage and available slots
- Measure distances: From panel to desired charger location
- Consider future needs: Second EV? Larger battery?
- Review utility rates: Check for EV-specific rate plans
Questions to Ask Your Electrician
- What's my panel's available capacity?
- Will I need a panel upgrade?
- What's the total installed cost?
- How long will installation take?
- Is the charger warranty affected by installation?
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Undersized wiring: Future-proof with larger capacity Poor placement: Consider cable length and parking position Skipping permits: Insurance and warranty issues Wrong outlet type: Hardwired is often better than plug-in Ignoring ventilation: Some garages need consideration
Ready to Charge at Home?
Switching to home EV charging is one of the best decisions you can make as an EV owner. Lower costs, maximum convenience, and you'll never need to wait at a public charger again.
Get a free quote for EV charger installation:
First Choice Electric serves St. Charles, St. Louis County, and surrounding areas. Licensed, insured, and experienced in residential EV charger installations for all vehicle makes.