House single-line diagram PDF: understand and prepare it

Single-line diagram: a simple definition

In a single-line representation, one line summarises several conductors in the same circuit. Symbols and annotations then describe the circuit purpose, protection and other information needed to read it.

This makes the hierarchy visible: incoming supply, isolation, RCDs, circuit breakers and final circuits, without the density of drawing line, neutral and protective conductors separately.

What should the PDF contain?

The exact content depends on the installation and requested document. For a house project, the diagram should at least be understandable and consistent with the panel labels and the other project documents.

• The supply origin and overall organisation.
• Isolation and protective devices shown in their hierarchy.
• Outgoing circuits with explicit names.
• Characteristics needed for checking and sizing.
• A title, date, revision and project identification.

Single-line or multi-line diagram: what is the difference?

The single-line diagram prioritises the overview: one circuit, one line. A multi-line diagram represents conductors separately and is useful when connection detail becomes essential.

Single-line is usually clearer for explaining a domestic panel. Multi-line may be needed to document a particular connection, control scheme or complex wiring detail.

How to use a blank template without copying the wrong installation

A blank template can provide a page structure, but it should not pre-fill technical decisions. Begin with the real circuit list, then build the hierarchy and labels from the property.

Clearly mark unknown values such as rating, cable size, length, installation method or protection. “To be validated” is safer than an unjustified value copied from an example.

Connect the single-line diagram to the house floor plan

The floor plan shows where outlets, lights, controls and appliances are located. The single-line diagram shows how those uses are grouped and protected. Use the same circuit identifiers on both documents.

This correspondence lets a reader move from the panel to a room without interpretation and makes quotations and pre-construction changes easier to manage.

Single-line diagrams and French CONSUEL files

CONSUEL requests different documents depending on the installation type and power. Its rules refer to a principle single-line diagram for certain configurations, while the technical file for the project defines the documents to provide.

Do not assume an online example fits your file. Identify the applicable form and technical file, then have the documents checked by the installer or relevant organisation.

Prepare a consistent PDF package with Planelico

Planelico uses the house plan and placed equipment to propose circuits and a panel organisation. The export can bring together the annotated plan, circuit schedule and panel representation.

This output helps prepare the project but is not, by itself, an approved diagram for every application. Add the requested information and have the final sizing checked.

Quick method with Planelico

1. 1

   Inventory the uses

   List outlets, lighting, dedicated appliances and future equipment from the floor plan.

2. 2

   Name the circuits

   Use short, precise labels that stay identical on the plan, panel and legend.

3. 3

   Organise the hierarchy

   Represent the supply, successive protective devices and outgoing circuits.

4. 4

   Add known characteristics

   Enter only confirmed values and clearly flag everything still requiring validation.

5. 5

   Check consistency

   Make sure no floor-plan equipment is missing and every circuit can be located.

6. 6

   Export and review

   Generate the dated PDF and have its content validated for the intended use.

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

• CONSUEL — Rules and diagrams required in relevant cases
• CONSUEL — Technical files by installation type
• AFNOR — NF C 15-100 series for low-voltage installations