Three-Phase Mains Upgrade
Homes and businesses are increasingly relying on power-hungry modern appliances and equipment. Melbourne is no exception. This pushes the capacity limits of our traditional single-phase electrical supply.
That’s why a 3-phase mains upgrade in Melbourne is becoming more common. This substantially increases energy capacity to safely and efficiently handle the power demands of today’s lifestyle and workspaces.
Why Upgrade to a 3-phase Power Installation in Melbourne?
First, most homes in Melbourne’s older suburbs like Collingwood and St Kilda only have single-phase mains. This has always been enough to run traditional everyday appliances like fridges and TVs, along with all the lights. But they increasingly struggle with power-intensive appliances, like air conditioning units and pool pumps, especially simultaneously.
Want an electric car with a fast EV charger? That also requires a 3-phase mains upgrade in Melbourne homes. With more people choosing electric vehicles, this has become one of the strongest motivations for people hiring single to three phase electricians Melbourne.
In the workplace the problem is even more acute, given the energy demands of heavier machinery, not to mention things like ducted air conditioning units necessary to ensure a comfortable and safe work environment.
Benefits of 3-Phase Power
There are four main benefits of 3-phase power installation in Melbourne.
More stable voltage
The first benefit is voltage stability that evens the distribution of electrical load across your home. This ensures that your lights and all appliances have enough power. The stability also protects smaller electronic devices, which are extremely sensitive to power fluctuations.
Enough power for high-demand appliances
If you run high-demand appliances at home, installing 3-phase power means saying goodbye to nuisance tripping. Charging your EV in the evening while using the stove for dinner becomes smooth and seamless. The same applies in a business scenario. Small businesses with workshop machinery and small factories can only operate with a reliable 3-phase power supply.
Safer and more efficient
Electricity and safety should always be mentioned in the same breath. We can never forget that the power we take for granted every day can turn dangerous if not treated properly. With the amount of capacity that 3-phase power generates, appliances and equipment not only operate without a hitch, they place less strain on the circuitry. Load balancing ensures that no part of the circuit overheats. The result? A safe and efficient power supply that you can trust.
Future-proofing
One thing we can probably be sure of is that our power needs will only grow as technology continues to advance. It’s shrewd to be prepared – acting now by upgrading to 3-phase power will ensure that you will already have more than enough to meet your needs in future. You’ll pay less for it now than in a few years’ time too, so your foresight will pay off literally in dollars too.
Costs and Timelines of a 3-phase Mains Upgrade in Melbourne
There are several factors that influence the final cost and timing of 3-phase power installation in Melbourne. Considerations include how old the switchboard is, and whether it needs to be replaced to cope with 3-phase power. The distance from your house to the street electricity supply also makes a difference, especially if trenching is required. You may have to incorporate any additional fees that your electricity provider (DNSP) could charge.
That said, these are the average standard prices:
- Typical residential upgrade: $2,500 – $6,000
- Upgrade with mains relocation: $5,600 – $8,000
As for timelines, upgrading your home to a 3-phase power supply usually takes just over two weeks. The first week or two are typically spent applying for and receiving DNSP approval. Once they have the go-ahead, experienced single to three phase electricians in Melbourne can get the actual onsite work done in one or two days.
The Upgrade Process: Step by Step
Upgrading to 3-phase power is a pretty simple process from your point of view. Here’s what you can expect at each step.
Step 1: Application
To comply with legal requirements, a 3-phase power installation in Melbourne requires permission from your DNSP. For instance, CitiPower generally covers the inner suburbs, while Powercor and Jimena look after the west and northwest. In any case, you don’t have to bother with this – your electrician will do all the paperwork and lodge the application.
Step 2: Site preparation
Once work can begin, the electrician needs to prepare everything for the upgrade. As mentioned, this could involve installing new cables in the trenches to your street supply box, and will usually mean getting your supplier to temporarily disconnect your house from the grid.
Step 3: Switchboard upgrade
In most cases your electrician will need to upgrade your switchboard, as single-phase boards weren’t designed to cope with 3-phase power. It may even need to be replaced, but your electrician will advise you on whether that’s necessary.
Step 4: Testing and certification
Once the installation is complete, your new system must be thoroughly tested to make sure it complies with the relevant authorities and regulations. If successful, you’ll receive a safety certificate. This confirms that your 3-phase upgrade has been completely legally and safely, as per Australian standards. It also gives you the peace of mind knowing that you and your family are properly protected.
Compliance and Standards
All electrical work, including a 3-phase mains upgrade in Melbourne, is subject to strict compliance requirements. The Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000) govern the design, installation and verification for the whole of Australia. Locally, the main authority is Energy Safe Victoria, with its own set of safety protocols requiring compliance.
You should also know that the only single to three phase electricians in Melbourne allowed to operate are those with a Level 2 authorisation from a DNSP. This ensures that the electrician has the necessary training to work directly on a mains supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my home needs three-phase power?
Household lighting that flickers when you’re using multiple appliances is one indication. Constant tripping if you plug in too many appliances at the same time is another.
Can I run an EV charger on single-phase?
Yes, a smaller EV charger will work on single-phase power, but it has limitations. The charging speed is slow, and it only provides about 7kw of charge per hour, which equals roughly 40km. It’s not powerful enough for the fast charging speeds you really want.
How long does a 3-phase mains upgrade Melbourne take?
It takes just over two weeks for 3-phase power installation in Melbourne. Most of this is administrative time – it only takes an electrician a couple of days to finish the job.
Is a new switchboard always required?
No, you won’t always need a new switchboard; it might only need an upgrade. However if you live in an older house it’s more likely that you will need yours replaced to safely cope with 3-phase power.
Who handles permits and DNSP approvals?
Your electrician will look after all of that for you.
Our Quality Guarantee
We carry out all work to the highest standards. All parts used by STL Electrical are of the highest quality. We’re experienced, fully licensed and insured electricians, working in Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs since 2000. We don’t cut corners. Our motto is to do all jobs properly, the first time.