Motor Types – Residential and light commercial HVAC

In Residential and light commercial HVAC we work primarily with PSC (Permanent split capacitor) motors. However, there are some other types that are good to be aware of.

PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor)

A common medium torque single phase motor with a run capacitor always in the circuit. This type makes up the majority of HVAC motors (condenser fans motors, blower motors compressors)

CSCR – (Capacitor Start, Capacitor Run)

A higher starting torque motor that uses a run capacitor as well as a start capacitor. The start capacitor is removed from the start circuit shortly after starting using a potential, current or centrifugal relay.

CSIR – (Capacitor Start, Induction Run)

These motors are fairly rare and utilize a start capacitor and no run capacitor.

Three Phase

Three phase motors require three phase power and do not require capacitors.

Shaded Pole

Shaded pole motors are very small, low torque motors. They can only run in one direction and they do not utilize capacitors.

D.C. (Direct Current)

D.C. Motors work on Direct Current and (generally) utilize brushes to transfer an electrical charge to the armature (rotor) of the motor.

ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor)

This type of motor is a high-efficiency DC (or three phase depending on how you look at it) motor that uses no brushes, a permanent magnet rotor and utilizes electronically switched DC power to turn the motor at various speeds.