During a routine service, a technician observes that a single-phase fractional horsepower outdoor fan motor on an HVAC unit is running clockwise from the shaft end, contrary to the manufacturer's specification for counter-clockwise rotation. What is the most common and practical method to reverse the rotation of a permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor?

Question: During a routine service, a technician observes that a single-phase fractional horsepower outdoor fan motor on an HVAC unit is running clockwise from the shaft end, contrary to the manufacturer's specification for counter-clockwise rotation. What is the most common and practical method to reverse the rotation of a permanent split capacitor (PSC) motor?

Answer options: ✅ Reverse the electrical connections to the start winding.

• Reverse the polarity of the main power supply to the motor.
• Replace the capacitor with one designed for reverse rotation.
• Disassemble the motor and physically reorient the rotor.

Correct answer: Reverse the electrical connections to the start winding.

Explanation: Reversing the rotation of a PSC motor is typically achieved by reversing the connections to either the start (auxiliary) winding relative to the run (main) winding, or vice versa. This effectively changes the phase relationship and thus the direction of the rotating magnetic field.