Charging your vehicle is easy and more convenient, and costs less than fueling with gasoline.
Level 1 Charger
- Provides 4-5 miles of range per hour
- Ideal for daily commutes of 40 miles or less
- Plug directly into a standard outlet
- No other special charging equipment needed
- Typically provided with EV purchase for home charging
Level 2 Charger
- Provides ~25 miles of range per hour
- Ideal for longer daily commutes
- Requires a 240V outlet (similar to a dryer outlet) which will need a certified electrician to install
- Commonly used at home, work, or public locations where vehicles are sitting idle for 2+ hours
- Receive $50 off the purchase of a qualified Level 2 charger.
Level 2 Charger
- Provides ~25 miles of range per hour
- Ideal for longer daily commutes
- Requires a 240V outlet (similar to a dryer outlet) which will need a certified electrician to install
- Commonly used at home, work, or public locations where vehicles are sitting idle for 2+ hours
Level 3 DC Fast Charger
- Provides ~80% in 30 minutes or less
- Ideal for quick stops on longer routes
- Typically requires payment through a charging network app
- Typically found along major highway corridors, public / private establishments
Ameren Missouri has developed this step-by-step guide to help ensure customers have everything they need to install an electric vehicle charger at home safely.
Consider battery size, travel miles and amount of time needed to charge.
Level 1: Use the EV charging unit or cord. This can plug into your standard wall outlet of 120-volt.
Level 2: You will need to install a 240v circuit to connect the Level 2 charging unit.
There are many models of at home chargers available to consumers today. Many vehicles may even come with a Level 1 or Level 2 charging unit.
Some “smart chargers” are wi-fi enabled and will provide a summary of energy usage and allow you to schedule your charging sessions. It’s important to note, however, that many vehicles offer the same capabilities through in-vehicle telematics.
Be sure to determine what attributes are important to you and research models that will meet your needs. You can use our free charger comparison tool to find a charging solution.
Ameren Missouri makes finding a qualified electrician easy with the Ameren Missouri Electric Vehicle Partner (EVP) Network. Electric Vehicle Partners have professional knowledge of current EV chargers, available incentives and are a valuable resource to help customers safely charge at home.
Safety always comes first at Ameren. That’s why we recommend having a qualified electrician conduct a survey/site visit before plugging in your vehicle, even if no panel upgrades are needed. A quick survey by an electrical contractor can determine if your home has adequate electrical capacity for electric vehicle charging. Depending on the size and age of the home, there may not be sufficient electrical capacity, meaning a new electric service panel may have to be added.
Be sure to discuss:
- Any required upgrades
- The type of charger you want (Level 1 or Level 2)
- Preferred installation location (inside or outside, ensuring the cord can safely reach the vehicle's charge port)
- The cost of installation
- Project timeline
- Required permits and who will apply
Once you have chosen a charging unit, reviewed bids to select an installer, identified a location for your charger and have received permits (if applicable) - it’s time to install the equipment!
Keep in mind, a federal tax credit may be available. You may be able to save up to 30% (up to $1,000) for residential charging installation.
Congratulations! You are ready to charge your EV! Plug in whenever you need and enjoy all the benefits of driving electric!
Once your equipment is installed, you can charge from the convenience of your home. Be sure to explore rate options that save you money when you charge overnight and leverage your vehicle telematics or Wi-Fi-enabled charger to schedule charging sessions to maximize your savings.
Level 1 charger (120 volts): ~5 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 2 charger (240 volts): ~25 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 3 charger/DC Fast Charger: Up to ~80% charge in 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and type of charger. The larger the battery, the more time it will take to reach an 80% charge.
Level 1 charger (120 volts): ~5 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 2 charger (240 volts): ~25 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 3 charger/DC Fast Charger: Up to ~80% charge in 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and type of charger. The larger the battery, the more time it will take to reach an 80% charge.
Level 1 charger (120 volts): ~5 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 2 charger (240 volts): ~25 miles of added range per hour of charge
Level 3 charger/DC Fast Charger: Up to ~80% charge in 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the vehicle and type of charger. The larger the battery, the more time it will take to reach an 80% charge.
- Always select charging equipment that is certified to meet safety standards.
- Never use extension cords or multiplug adapters when charging.
- When utilizing a 120-volt AC outlet, ensure the outlet is rated for the required amperage (contact a certified electrician for verification if you are unsure).
- Utilize a certified electrician when installing a 240v outlet to serve a level 2 charger.
- Consider installing a commercial/industrial grade NEMA 14-50 receptable for your Level 2 home charger (instead of residential grade). While they are slightly more expensive, they are designed for long-duration, high load sessions, offering durability and reliability that often surpass a standard household outlet.
- Keep in mind that charging cables are a trip hazard so be mindful of the cable's location.
- Always maintain the charging station's components, replacing worn or damaged parts that can malfunction.
- Visually inspect charging cords prior to charging.
- Always read your owner's manual for charging guidance specific to your vehicle, as well as guidance specific to your charging equipment.
- Cover outdoor equipment to prevent water damage.
A damaged charger is an unsafe charger, one that could cause harm to you or your EV when plugging it in.
- Before plugging in your car, inspect the charger for apparent signs of damage.
- Ensure the plug fastens snugly into the car’s charging port, as broken clips may prevent a secure and unsafe connection.
Some public charging stations are located conveniently in parking areas near shop entrances. However, other locations place chargers at the far corner of the lots. Use common sense and do not exit your car if you feel unsafe.
- Keep the doors locked if you sit in the car while charging.
- Lock the vehicle if you leave it unattended while charging.
- Always be mindful of your surroundings.
Lastly, because EV charging often requires the use of technology, apps and digital forms of payment, it's important to keep cybersecurity in mind. Always use strong passwords and ensure that you are performing regular software updates as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.