Charge Ahead:
Why Home Charging Makes Sense for Tower Grove

Got an EV? Thinking about installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging station at home? It's a smart move that offers convenience, cost savings, and helps future-proof your property. While walking our dog Brent, I hear that familiar electric hum more and more in and around our neighborhood. With more EVs appearing in Tower Grove driveways each month, home charging is becoming a practical necessity rather than a luxury.

Benefits That Hit Home:

• Convenience: Charge your EV overnight(we set ours for off-peak electrical rates) and wake up to a full battery every morning—no more detours to public charging stations

• Cost Savings: Home charging typically costs 50-70% less than public charging stations, saving the average driver $500-800 annually

• Property Value: A pre-installed Level 2 charger can increase home value and appeal to future buyers as EV adoption continues to grow

• Reliability: Never worry about finding an available public charger or dealing with broken equipment

Level 2 Charging: The Sweet Spot for Tower Grove Homes

Choosing a Level 2 charger for our home was an easy choice—and with good reason. Here's why they're the practical choice:

• Charging Speed: 4-6 times faster than standard outlet charging (Level 1)

• Daily Range: Adds about 25-30 miles of range per hour (compared to 3-5 miles with Level 1)

• Compatibility: Works with all electric vehicle models on the market

• Installation: Typically uses a 240V circuit similar to what powers your clothes dryer

Save, Drive, Save:
A real cost breakdown here in Tower Grove.

Wondering how much money you'll actually save on fuel costs by switching to an EV? We've crunched the numbers specifically for Tower Grove residents in St. Louis:

Monthly Fuel Cost Comparison

Based on average daily driving of 37 miles, Ameren Missouri rates of $0.12/kWh standard and $0.08/kWh off-peak, and current St. Louis gas prices of $3.10/gallon.

Tower Grove Tip: Ameren Missouri offers Time-of-Use rate plans that can significantly reduce your EV charging costs. Most Tower Grove residents program their chargers to start after 9 PM when electricity rates drop by about 30-40%.

What's Your "Price Per Gallon" with an EV?

To help you understand just how affordable EV charging is, we've calculated the "gasoline gallon equivalent" for electric vehicles in St. Louis:

Cost Per 100 Miles: Real Vehicle Comparison

Plug-in vs. Hardwired EV Chargers: Which is Right for You?

When installing a Level 2 charger, you'll need to choose between two installation options. Both work well, but have different advantages:

1. Plug-in (NEMA 14-50):

• Convenience: Your electrician installs a 240V outlet (similar to a dryer outlet), and you simply plug in your charger

• Flexibility: If you move or upgrade your charger later, you can easily unplug and take it with you

• Cost: Often more affordable to install initially, due to simpler wiring

• Possible Downsides: Slightly less robust for outdoor use; connections may loosen over time

2. Hardwired (Wall-Mounted Charger):

• Reliability & Durability: Permanently connected directly into your home's electrical system, providing better weather resistance

• Power and Safety: Reduced risk of loose connections or overheating

• Aesthetic & Space-Saving: Often a cleaner, more streamlined look with less visible wiring

• Possible Downsides: Typically costs more upfront and requires an electrician to remove if you move.

Plug-in (NEMA 14-50) Option(Estimated Costs):

Hardwired Wall-Mounted Option(Estimated Costs):

Additional costs may apply if:

• Your electrical panel needs upgrading ($1,500-$2,800)

• You need a long wire run from your panel to your parking area ($3-$8 per foot)

• Trenching is required for detached garages ($10-$20 per foot)

Tower Grove Tip: If you have a detached garage or carport typical of many homes in our neighborhood, a hardwired installation may offer better durability for outdoor exposure. For indoor garage installations, we find the 14-50 plug-in option perfect and appreciate how easy it is to use.

The Common Steps:

1. Assess your electrical system: Have an electrician evaluate your electrical panel's capacity

2. Choose your charger: Look for UL-listed units with at least a 3-year warranty

3. Get multiple quotes: Contact at least three licensed electricians

4. Schedule installation: Most installations take 2-4 hours once permits are approved

5. Final inspection: Required by the city to ensure safety compliance

6. Save documentation: Keep all receipts and certification paperwork for tax incentives

Find a local Electrician to help you get one installed.

Financial Incentives Available Now

• Federal Tax Credit: 30% of installation costs up to $1,000

Friendly Reminder: This newsletter provides general information only and shouldn't replace professional electrical advice from a pro. Always consult with a licensed electrician before making changes to your home's electrical system. Every home is unique, and proper installation is essential for safety and code compliance. Power Grove STL cannot be responsible for individual installation decisions or outcomes. We're just neighbors sharing information to help our community thrive!

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