Over the past decade, homes have become much more reliant on technology. Large ducted air conditioners, electric ovens, EV chargers, and home workshop equipment all place greater demands on electricity.

The problem? Many older Melbourne homes weren’t designed to handle that kind of load. That’s why more homeowners are upgrading from single-phase to 3-phase power.

In this guide, we’ll explain what 3-phase power is, how it compares to a standard power supply, and when it might be time to consider an upgrade for your home.

What Is 3-Phase Power?

Single-phase power uses one active wire and one neutral wire to deliver 230 volts. That’s usually enough to run your everyday appliances like televisions, fridges, and lighting.

But if you’re using high-demand appliances like a large air conditioning system, an electric cooktop, or an EV charger, you might start noticing flickering lights, circuit breakers tripping, or appliances not performing as they should. That’s often a sign your current setup is being pushed too hard.

3-phase power uses three active wires and one neutral wire to deliver 415 volts. Think of it like upgrading from a single-lane road to a three-lane highway. It allows more electricity to flow to your home with greater efficiency and stability.

For a deeper dive into how it compares to standard power, check out our blog post on single-phase vs. three-phase power.

Single-Phase vs. 3-Phase: What’s the Difference?

When Should You Consider 3-Phase Power in Melbourne?

Most average-sized homes in Melbourne can run comfortably on a single-phase supply. However, some households may benefit from upgrading if their power needs exceed the standard limits.

You may want to consider 3-phase power if:

You’re building or renovating a large home with multiple circuits, larger HVAC systems, or electric water heaters
You plan to install an instantaneous electric hot water system, which requires more energy than traditional systems
You’re installing a fast EV charger that requires more power than a single-phase supply can provide
You use industrial-grade tools or machinery at home, such as in a workshop or home business
You’re adding a large solar PV system with battery storage

Frequent circuit trips, flickering lights, or ongoing voltage issues can also signal the need for an upgrade. To learn more about what's involved in upgrading, take a look at our residential supply upgrades page.

How Do You Know If You Already Have 3-Phase Power?

Not sure what kind of power setup your home has? Here’s how to find out:

Check your switchboard: If you see three main switches or one wide switch, there’s a good chance you have 3-phase power
Look for labels: Your meter or board might be marked with “3-phase,” “tri-phase,” or “four-wire”
Contact your energy distributor: United Energy, CitiPower, Jemena, or AusNet can confirm your supply over the phone

Book a free inspection: Our team can take a look and let you know exactly what you’re working with.

How Much Does a 3-Phase Power Upgrade Cost in Melbourne?

For most Melbourne homes, a 3-phase power upgrade typically costs between $5,000 and $8,000. That said, a few things can affect the final cost:

Distance from the street: The further your home is from the mains, the more materials and labour are required
Switchboard upgrades: Older boards may need to be replaced to meet current safety standards
Rewiring: If your home’s wiring isn’t rated for 3-phase, it will need updating
Additional circuits: High-powered appliances like EV chargers may require dedicated circuits

We break down the whole process on our Mains Power Upgrade Melbourne page.

The best way to get a solid quote is to book a free home inspection. We’ll check your current setup and give you a clear, honest estimate with no surprises.

Why More Melbourne Homes Are Upgrading to 3-Phase Power

The biggest reason is increased energy use.

Modern appliances and smart technology draw more power than older models. An instantaneous hot water system, for example, can draw up to 18,000 watts, while older systems used about 3,000 to 4,500 watts. Add in bigger TVs, dishwashers, smart lighting, and home office gear, and your single-phase system may start to feel the strain.

Solar power and EVs are also becoming more popular across Melbourne. A 3-phase setup can help manage and export solar energy more efficiently while also charging electric vehicles faster.

In fact, a recent CSIRO study found that households could save thousands over time by switching to electric appliances, especially when powered by rooftop solar. For many homeowners, upgrading to 3-phase power is an important step in making that transition smooth and future-ready.

If you’re considering an all-electric home, the Victorian Government’s Power Up Your Home guide is another useful resource.

Frequently Asked Questions About 3-Phase Power

What’s the difference between single-phase and 3-phase in Australia?

Single-phase uses one active and one neutral wire and delivers 230 volts. 3-phase uses three active wires and one neutral, delivering 415 volts. It’s more stable and can handle higher power loads.

How do I check if I already have 3-phase?

Look at your switchboard or check with your energy provider. You can also book an inspection with our team to be sure.

Does 3-phase cost more to run?

The upgrade itself is more expensive, but operating costs are usually similar. In fact, 3-phase power is often more efficient for homes using high-powered equipment.

Can I run solar panels with 3-phase?

Yes, and large solar systems often work better with a 3-phase setup. It also helps balance energy exports to the grid.

How long does an upgrade take?

The installation usually takes one to two days, but permit approvals and distributor coordination can stretch the process over a few weeks.

Do I need 3-phase for EV charging?

Not always. Standard EV chargers work on single-phase but are slower. If you’re installing a fast charger or plan to charge multiple vehicles, 3-phase is the better option.

Why Choose AJD Electrical Solutions for Your Upgrade?

We’ve been helping Melbourne homeowners upgrade to 3-phase power for over 10 years. Our reputation is built on quality work, fair pricing, and reliable service.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

Over a decade of experience
Hundreds of 3-phase upgrades completed across Melbourne
More than 100 five-star reviews from happy clients
Fully licensed, insured, and Energy Safe Victoria accredited
Honest, transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Clean, professional service that respects your spac

End-to-end project management so you don’t have to stress about a thing

Ready to Discuss a 3-Phase Power Upgrade?

Not sure if your home needs 3-phase power? We're here to help.

Give us a call or send a message to book a free inspection. We’ll assess your setup, talk through your options, and provide a detailed quote with no pressure.

We proudly serve Melbourne, Box Hill, and surrounding suburbs.

What Is 3-Phase Power and Do I Need It?