The difference between three phase and single phase is primarily in the voltage that is received through each type of wire. There is no such thing as two-phase power, which is a surprise to some people. Single-phase power is commonly called “split-phase.” You have some ways to determine whether you have three-phase wire or single-phase wire. Single Phase Motor A single-phase wire consists of two hot wires, each delivering 120 volts, and one neutral wire. Appliances requiring 240 volts, like water heaters and stoves, utilize both hot wires. Other appliances operate on 120 volts, using only one hot wire and the neutral. This split-phase circuit design facilitates diverse voltage requirements efficiently. Three Phase Motor Three-phase power is supplied by four wires. Three hot wires carrying 120 volts of electricity and one neutral. Two hot wires and the neutral run to a piece of machinery requiring 240 volts of power. Three-phase power is more efficient than single-phase power. Imagine one man pushing a car up a hill; this is an example of single-phase power. Three-phase power is like having three men of equal strength pushing that same car up the same hill. The three hot wires in a three-phase circuit are coloured black, blue and red; a white wire is neutral and a green wire is used for the ground.