Single-phase versus 3-phase service for residential air conditioning

RESIDENTIAL air conditioning has made a significant contribution to the growth of loads in the warmer parts of the United States. Centrally located units for summer and year-round air conditioning appear on the horizon as potential loads of unprecedented magnitude to nearly all parts of the country. All phases of utility operations will be affected but of immediate concern is the determination of the characteristics of the distribution system. The first question to be answered is: “Shall single-phase or 3-phase service be provided?” The customer, as well as the company, is vitally interested in the answer.