splitfasen

Splitfasen, or split-phase power, is a method of distributing electrical power that uses two hot conductors derived from a center-tapped transformer. The two hot legs are opposite in phase with respect to the neutral reference, typically producing 120 volts between each hot leg and neutral, and 240 volts between the two hot legs.

In a standard split-phase installation, the two hot conductors are labeled L1 and L2, with the neutral denoted N. The center tap of the transformer secondary serves as the neutral. This arrangement allows many household circuits to operate at 120 V, while larger appliances such as dryers and ranges can use 240 V by connecting across L1 and L2.

Advantages of split-phase power include the ability to supply both 120 V and 240 V from a single service, which simplifies wiring and reduces the number of transformers needed. It is also cost-effective for residential distributions in regions where the system is routed from a central center-tapped transformer.

Disadvantages include that the two hot legs are not independent phases in the sense used for polyphase systems, and any imbalance between the two branches can cause the neutral current to be higher. The neutral conductor can carry substantial current under unbalanced loads, and long or heavily loaded neutrals may require careful design to prevent overheating.

Geographically, split-phase is most commonly associated with North American residential power systems. In other regions, residential supplies may use different single-phase or polyphase configurations, and the split-phase concept is not as prevalent.