Call 844-335-0814 and our service desk will connect you with an independent electrical contractor who handles three phase installations around Sacramento.
Equipment that commonly needs three phase
- Industrial motors, pumps and air compressors
- CNC machines, lathes and fabrication equipment
- Commercial kitchen ovens, mixers and refrigeration
- Large HVAC units and chillers
- Commercial EV charging equipment
Utility service or a phase converter
If your building already has three phase service, adding equipment usually means new circuits from the existing distribution. If it does not, the choices are to request three phase service from the utility, which can involve new equipment outside the building, or to use a phase converter for smaller loads. Each option has very different costs and timelines.
Before you buy equipment, share its nameplate voltage, phase and amperage with the contractor so the plan matches what you are installing.
Planning a three phase installation
- Call 844-335-0814 and describe the equipment and your current service.
- We connect you with an independent contractor who does three phase work.
- The contractor reviews your service, equipment specs and the utility's requirements.
- Permits are pulled and any utility service request is coordinated.
- Distribution and circuits are installed, inspected and tested with the equipment.
Rotation, balance and testing
Three phase equipment must be connected with correct phase rotation, or motors can run backward. Loads should also be balanced across the three phases. A qualified contractor tests rotation and voltage before equipment goes into service.
Confirm the contractor's C10 electrical license on the CSLB license check before work begins.
Questions to answer before ordering equipment
Many three phase projects stall because equipment was ordered before anyone confirmed the building could supply it. Before you buy, gather the answers to a few questions so the contractor can confirm the plan.
- What voltage and phase does the equipment nameplate require?
- Does the building already have three phase service, and at what voltage?
- How far is the equipment from the main distribution panel?
- Will several machines run at the same time?
With those answers, the contractor can tell you whether the job is a simple new circuit or a longer project that involves the utility.
Questions about Three Phase Power Installation
Can a home get three phase power?
Residential three phase service is uncommon and depends on what the utility can provide at the property. Most homes use single phase service.
Is a phase converter a good alternative?
For smaller shop equipment it can be. For large or continuous loads, utility three phase service is usually the better long term option.