How to Connect AC Motors to Mains

Wire a plug to connect your AC motor to the mains.

Alternating current, or AC, motors operate using power from the electrical mains supply, such as the electricity supplied to your home. AC current effectively switches direction about 50 times a second and is safer for home use because if you accidentally touch a hot wire, it repels you, unlike direct current, or DC, which you can get stuck to. To connect an AC motor to the mains, you will have to wire a plug on the end of the motor's wire.

Things You'll Need

• Plug
• Wire strippers
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Remove 2 inches of the outer plastic coating off the opposite end of the cable attached to your AC motor using wire strippers. Remove 1/4 inch of plastic off the end of the three internal wires.

2. Remove the cover off the plug by unscrewing the screw using a screwdriver. Loosen the three terminal screws.

3. Attach the green wire under the terminal screw labeled "T" or "Gnd"; it's the top round pin in the plug. Tighten the screw.

4. Attach the white or gray wire under the terminal screw labeled "Neu" or "-"; it's the larger of the two central flat pins. Tighten the screw.

5. Attach the red, orange or black wire to the remaining terminal labeled "Hot" or "+"; it's the small flat pin. Tighten the screw.

6. Replace the cover. Insert the screw into the plug cover and tighten. Insert the plug into the wall socket.

References

• Zyra: Electricity Demystified
• All About Circuits: Wiring Color Codes