When installing a solar power system on your business or residence, it is important to determine what phase power you have at your property, as there are limits on how large your system can be. That’s why Energis have put together 2 easy steps to find out if you have single or three-phase power!
1. Locate your switchboard
One of the three ways to find out if you have single or three-phase power is to look at your switchboard! A switchboard controls the flow of power to your property and is typically a single large panel(s) which contains various switches, circuit breakers and other power control equipment.
Most residential switchboards are usually located towards the front of the property either near the entrance or in the garage. Commercial switchboards are typically located within the main premises of the building but not necessarily near the electricity meter board.
2. Check out the circuit breakers
Once you’ve located your property’s switchboard, the next step to finding out if you have single or three-phase power is to look at the circuit breakers. Within your switchboard, there will be multiple circuit breakers.
A circuit breaker is a self-operating electrical switch that is designed to ensure the safety of an electrical circuit and prevent damage that may be caused by an overload or short circuit. There will be a circuit break labelled as the “Main Switch” and from this, you will determine which phase of power you have based on its width. A single-phase switch will be the width of one ‘pole’, whereas a three-phase switch is the width of three ‘poles’. See pictures below.
What about two-phase power?
In Australia, two-phase power is quite common. To identify this, the process is the same and the main switch will be the width of two ‘poles”. See photo below.
At Energis, we focus on bringing customers top-quality products and services. We only work with the most respected manufacturers and Tier 1 panels and experienced CEC Approved Installers.
With over 10 years in the industry, Energis has demonstrated its commitment to industry best practice and is a CEC Approved Solar Retailer. This ensures the best possible standard of solar PV installation.
If you are considering commercial or residential solar, call Energis on 1300 782 217 or at sales@energis.com.au, one of our solar consultants will talk you through the best option and give you a free quote.
