Single-phase and three-phase power

Homes and small tools use single-phase power. Large motors, industrial equipment and commercial buildings often use three-phase.

Coils of heavy black electrical cable

The short version

Single-phase

Standard in Canadian homes: 120 V outlets and 240 V for large appliances. Most small and medium generators supply this.

Three-phase

Used by large motors, pumps, elevators and commercial buildings. Common Canadian service voltages include 208 V, 480 V and 600 V. Larger generators can supply three-phase.

How to check

Look at the nameplate of the equipment or the main panel label. If it says 3 phase, or lists two or three line voltages, you need three-phase.

Tell us the voltage and phase when you request a quote. If you are unsure, send a photo of the nameplate or the panel. The size guide covers how much power you need.

Tell us what you need

We reply by email with a quote.

Request a quote