EV Charger Installation FAQ
Everything you need to know about installing an EV charger at your St. Louis area home. Can't find your answer? Contact us for a free consultation.
Cost & Pricing
How much does EV charger installation cost?
Most EV charger installations in the St. Louis area cost between $500-$1,500 for labor. The charger itself ranges from $400-$700 for most brands. Total cost depends on your panel capacity, distance from panel to charger location, and whether a panel upgrade is needed.
Are there rebates available for EV charger installation?
Yes! Ameren Missouri offers up to $500 rebate on qualifying Level 2 charger installations. Additionally, the federal tax credit (30C) provides up to 30% back (max $1,000) on charger and installation costs. See our rebates page for details.
Why do installation costs vary so much?
Installation cost depends on: distance from your electrical panel to the charger location, whether your panel has capacity for a 50A circuit, the type of mounting required (wall vs pedestal), and local permit fees. We provide free quotes so you know the exact cost upfront.
Installation Process
How long does EV charger installation take?
Most installations are completed in 2-4 hours. More complex installations requiring panel upgrades or long cable runs may take a full day. We typically schedule within one week of your site assessment.
Do I need a permit for EV charger installation?
Yes, EV charger installations require an electrical permit in Missouri. First Choice Electric handles all permitting with your local municipality as part of our service. Permit costs are included in your quote.
Can I install an EV charger myself?
While some chargers are advertised as DIY, we strongly recommend professional installation. A licensed electrician ensures proper circuit sizing, code compliance, and safe installation. DIY installations may void warranties and create safety hazards.
What if my garage is detached from my house?
We regularly install chargers in detached garages. We can run underground conduit or overhead cable from your main panel to the garage. This adds to the installation cost but is a common and straightforward installation.
Electrical Requirements
Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel?
It depends on your current panel capacity. Most Level 2 chargers require a 40-60A circuit. If you have a 200A panel with available capacity, no upgrade is needed. Older homes with 100A panels may need an upgrade ($2,000-$3,000) to safely add EV charging.
What's the difference between hardwired and plug-in chargers?
Hardwired chargers are permanently connected to your electrical system—cleaner look, no outlet to fail. Plug-in chargers use a NEMA 14-50 outlet, making them portable if you move. Both work equally well; it's a matter of preference.
Can I use a regular outlet to charge my EV?
You can use a standard 120V outlet (Level 1 charging), but it's very slow—typically 3-5 miles of range per hour. A Level 2 charger (240V) provides 25-40 miles per hour, giving you a full charge overnight.
Charger Selection
Which EV charger should I buy?
For Tesla owners, the Tesla Wall Connector is the best choice. For other EVs, ChargePoint Home Flex and Emporia are popular for their flexibility and value. If you have a UniFi network, the UniFi EV Station Pro integrates beautifully. We can help you choose during your consultation.
Can I use a Tesla Wall Connector with a non-Tesla EV?
Yes! Newer Tesla Wall Connectors include a J1772 adapter, or you can purchase one separately. However, if you don't own a Tesla, a universal charger like ChargePoint or Wallbox may be a better choice.
What's the best charger for the money?
The Emporia EV Charger ($399-$499) offers excellent value with smart features and energy monitoring. ChargePoint Home Flex ($549-$699) is the most versatile with adjustable amperage. Tesla Wall Connector ($475) is best for Tesla owners.
Should I buy the charger or will you provide it?
Either way works! You can purchase your charger from Amazon, the manufacturer, or your local store. We can also source the charger for you. Either way, we handle the installation professionally.
Specific Vehicles
What charger do you recommend for a Tesla?
The Tesla Wall Connector is our top recommendation for Tesla owners. It provides the fastest home charging (up to 44 mi/hr), seamless app integration, and power sharing if you have multiple Teslas.
What about the Ford F-150 Lightning?
The Ford Charge Station Pro is the best choice for F-150 Lightning owners, especially if you want Intelligent Backup Power (using your truck to power your home during outages). It's also the highest-powered home charger available at 80A.
I have a Rivian—what charger should I get?
Rivian owners often choose the Rivian Wall Charger for its premium build quality and brand consistency. However, any J1772 Level 2 charger works perfectly with Rivian vehicles.
Service Area
What areas do you serve?
We serve the greater St. Louis metro area, including St. Charles County, St. Louis County, Warren County, and Lincoln County. Popular cities include O'Fallon, St. Peters, Wentzville, Chesterfield, Ballwin, and Wildwood.
Do you serve the Illinois side?
Currently, we focus on the Missouri side of the St. Louis metro. We do not serve Illinois at this time.
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