Single-phase electric motors are among the most commonly used electric motors in household appliances and commercial environments, and they are also suitable for use in small industrial settings. Given the diversity in the design of these motors, their wiring (connection) presents one of the major technical challenges.

In this article, we will discuss the wiring methods for several common types of single-phase motors, including split-phase motors, capacitor-start motors, and dual-capacitor motors. Stay tuned with Maher Academy.

 What is a Single-Phase Electric Motor?
A single-phase electric motor is an electric motor that operates using one phase and one neutral. These motors have two windings in their stator: the main or running winding and the auxiliary or starting winding. The rotor is typically of the "squirrel-cage" type.

These motors are used in many applications, such as commercial and residential projects, as well as in small industrial environments or workshops where three-phase power is not available. Single-phase electric motors come in various designs, including:
- Split-phase single-phase motor
- Capacitor-start single-phase motor
- Permanent-capacitor single-phase motor
- Dual-capacitor single-phase motor

 Wiring of Single-Phase Electric Motors
In single-phase motors, two windings are used: the main or running winding and the starting or auxiliary winding. Each winding has two terminals that need to be connected to the phase and neutral. However, the wiring of a single-phase motor varies depending on the type of motor.

 Wiring of Split-Phase Single-Phase Motors
As mentioned earlier, one type of single-phase motor is the split-phase motor. In this motor type, a centrifugal switch is used to disconnect the auxiliary (starting) winding from the circuit once the motor reaches a certain speed.

 Wiring of Permanent-Capacitor Single-Phase Motors
A permanent capacitor not only creates the initial phase shift needed to start the motor but also helps improve the motor's torque during operation. The wiring diagram of a single-phase motor with a permanent capacitor is shown below.

 Wiring of Dual-Capacitor Single-Phase Motors
In the wiring circuit of a dual-capacitor single-phase motor, a starting capacitor is used to create phase shift and generate initial torque, while a permanent capacitor enhances torque and motor efficiency during operation. The starting capacitor is electrolytic, and the permanent capacitor is oil-filled. After the initial start and increase in motor speed, the centrifugal switch disconnects the starting (auxiliary) capacitor from the circuit.

 Summary
Single-phase motors are primarily used in commercial applications and electrical household appliances but can also be employed to start many industrial devices.

Here, we have outlined the wiring (connection) methods for commonly used single-phase motors. As mentioned earlier, in the "Maher Industrial Electricity Course," you can practically familiarize yourself with different types of single-phase electric motors and learn how to start and use them in the industry.