In a split phase motor, the starter wire is a _______ size wire than the run winding.

In a split phase motor, the starter wire is a _______ size wire than the run winding.

• A. Larger
• B. Smaller
• C. The same
• D. Much larger

Answer: (B)

In split-phase motors, the two windings serve different roles. The run winding is designed to carry the motor’s continuous running current, so it’s built with thicker conductor to handle that steady load and heat. The starter (start) winding, on the other hand, only needs to contribute torque during startup, with a capacitor or other device helping create the necessary phase shift. Because it’s energized only briefly, the starter winding can use smaller conductor size, which limits its current and heat and makes the motor more efficient and cost-effective. A switch or relay then disconnects the starter winding once the motor reaches speed, leaving only the run winding in operation.

In split-phase motors, the two windings serve different roles. The run winding is designed to carry the motor’s continuous running current, so it’s built with thicker conductor to handle that steady load and heat. The starter (start) winding, on the other hand, only needs to contribute torque during startup, with a capacitor or other device helping create the necessary phase shift. Because it’s energized only briefly, the starter winding can use smaller conductor size, which limits its current and heat and makes the motor more efficient and cost-effective. A switch or relay then disconnects the starter winding once the motor reaches speed, leaving only the run winding in operation.