How to wire a single-phase motor?

When we find ourselves faced with a single-phase motor, a question may arise: how to connect a single-phase motor? Our customers, whether or not they are familiar with installing a single-phase electric motor, often ask us this question. In this article, you will find all the necessary information.

Connecting a 220v electric motor with a permanent capacitor or a double capacitor:

First, a 220v electric motor comes with either a permanent capacitor or two capacitors. The question how to connect a single-phase motor concerns both of the above possibilities.

You can also find our article explaining when to use a single-phase motor here.

Before any action, it is important to remember that the connection of an electric motor must be done by a qualified person. The first step to connect your single-phase electric motor is to cut off the power supply, turn off the circuit breaker and lock out the installation. This important first step will allow you to work safely.

We advise you to wear your personal protective equipment. Once this first step is done, you can open the terminal box cover to access the terminal plate of your single-phase motor.

Single-phase motor connection with a single capacitor, clockwise rotation.

For single-phase motors with a permanent capacitor (a single capacitor), you will need to connect your phase to terminal U1 and the neutral to terminal U2. With this wiring, the motor will rotate clockwise. In this case, the links will be installed on terminals Z1/U1 and C/U2 (C). The capacitor will be connected to terminals U2 and V2 (according to the attached diagram series MD).

Single-phase motor connection with a single capacitor, counter-clockwise rotation.

Regarding the connection of your single-phase motor for counter-clockwise rotation, the connection will be identical. However, the coupling links must be moved to terminals Z1/U2 (C) and U1/Z2 (MD series diagram attached). Do not forget to connect your earth wire to the motor casing (yellow/green wire).

Single-phase motor connection with two capacitors.

The connection of a single-phase electric motor with a double capacitor is identical to that of a motor equipped with a single capacitor. However, on this type of motor, a starting capacitor and a centrifugal switch will be connected to the terminal plate between terminal C and U2 (MKD series diagram).

Dymatec Industries supplies Gamak single-phase electric motors. Find our range here.

We hope this article will help you know how to connect a single-phase motor.