Electric motors are ubiquitous in the modern world, powering everything from automatic bathroom hand dryers to compressors to oil drilling rigs. While these devices are generally reliable, they may eventually develop problems that can bring your home or business to a standstill. Here are a few electric motor troubleshooting tips for getting your equipment running again.

3 Electric Motor Troubleshooting Tips

1. Check the Power Supply

Many motor issues can be traced to a problem with the power supply, so they may not be related to the device at all. After making sure it’s plugged in, check that the circuit breaker isn’t tripped. If you still aren’t registering voltage, there may be a broken connection inside the motor.

2. Look for Short Circuits

The stator is the metal tube that converts the electric current to a magnetic field. If this part develops a short, your motor will stop running and loudly hum when you restart it. Finding the fault and fixing a short circuit can be hazardous, so leave these tasks to an experienced, skilled repair professional.

3. Check the Specs

If the motor continuously overheats, it may not have the power to meet the demands of your application. This is a common issue with replacement motors, which often can’t replicate the performance of OEM equipment.

However, even original devices can fail. Remove the load from the motor and use an ohmmeter to gauge how much power it draws. If it’s using the maximum amount of power that the unit is rated for, the motor may need to be replaced.

The professionals at Hayden Electric Motors in Anchorage, AK, have kept equipment running smoothly for over 60 years. Whether you need help with electric motor troubleshooting or require emergency repairs in the middle of the night, these technicians will deliver exceptional service using only the best equipment on the market. Connect with their team on Facebook for more tips and updates, or call (907) 561-1073 to schedule an appointment.