What is 3 phase power and do I need it?
EV chargers, large air conditioning units and high-capacity pool heaters require 3 phase power to run effectively. Most residential properties are equipped with single-phase power – if you are looking to install any of these in your home, you will need to upgrade your property to a 3 phase power system.
What is 3 phase power?
3-phase power refers to a type of AC (alternating current) circuit in which 3 AC phase wires are set at 120 electrical degrees apart. This configuration allows 3 phase power supply to maintain a higher and more stable power distribution to run appliances that require it.
What is the difference between 3 phase and single phase power?
3 phase power is set up with 3 power wires that share the load of distribution of electricity, while single-phase power systems only have a single power wire and a neutral wire to share the same load.
3 phase power has a much higher output voltage of 415 V, compared to the 240V delivered by single phase.
Most industrial or commercial buildings are equipped with 3 phase power system to provide sufficient power for heavy equipment and machinery. Residential buildings, on the other hand, usually run on a single-phase power circuit, which is sufficient for most household lighting and appliances.
When is 3-phase power required?
The demands of certain high-powered appliances will require 3 phase power to run safely and efficiently. Examples of these appliances include:
Common services that level 2 electricians offer include:
- Level 3 electric vehicle (EV) chargers — With a level 3 charger, EVs reach a full charge within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the vehicle’s battery capacity and the charger’s output.
- Swimming pool pumps — Large swimming pool heat pumps that run exclusively on 3-phase power to support the high energy demands of bigger pools.
- Home air conditioning — Larger residential air conditioning systems, particularly for those with central air conditioning units.
- Home workshops — Heavy machinery and power tools, such as table saws and welding equipment in a home workshop will require 3 phase power.
- Solar systems — Specifically for solar systems that are set up for 15kW to 30kW.
How much will it cost to upgrade to 3 phase power?
Upgrading to 3 phase power can cost anywhere between $2000 to $6000 —it will really come down to the size and nature of the property and what’s required to make the upgrade.
Your home’s switchboard will also need to be upgraded if it is not capable of supporting a 3 phase power circuit. Installation costs for 3 phase power in a new home build will be less, since there will be no need for rewiring or existing adjustments.
How long will it take to upgrade to 3 phase power?
An electrician will typically take a few days to complete the upgrade, including an initial assessment of your current electrical system, the replacement of the switchboard, rewiring work, and socket installation.
Can normal appliances run on a 3 phase power system?
Yes. Once 3 phase power has been installed in your home, it will continue to support all of your household appliances, with the added benefit of being able to power additional heavy-duty appliances like a level 3 EV charger.
Do I already have 3 phase power?
If you’ve recently purchased a new home, you can check to confirm if it already has a 3-phase power supply. Open up the switchboard and look for the fuse located between the main power cable and the electric metre. If there is only one fuse, the property is running on a single-phase power system. If there are 3 fuses (notably labelled 100amp) the property may already be 3-phase power capable. Some electrical metres may include a notice stating that 3 phase power is available.
How to get 3 phase power installed
3-phase power involves electrical work with high voltage systems and can only be carried out by electricians who are level 2 qualified. If you need 3 phase power installed in your home or commercial property on Sydney’s North Shore, this is our bread and butter – our level 2 electricians on the Northern Beaches can help. Give us a call today to get a free quote for 3 3-phase power installation.
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