Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC ) Electrical Practice Test

What voltage is found across the condenser fan motor according to the schematic?

1. 120 volts

2. 240 volts

3. 0 volts

4. 12 volts

The correct answer is: 0 volts

The value of 0 volts across the condenser fan motor indicates that there is no electrical potential difference present at that point in the circuit, which can occur if the motor is not energized or if there is an open circuit. In HVAC systems, it is essential to understand that certain components may show different voltages based on their operation status, control logic, or connections within the system. For example, if the fan motor is not running, it may show 0 volts due to a lack of power being supplied or because safety controls have interrupted the circuit. Additionally, when troubleshooting, it is crucial to check for other possible reasons behind the absence of voltage at the fan motor, like blown fuses, tripped breakers, or faulty switches in the control circuit. Understanding the operating conditions of a condenser fan motor, including scenarios that lead to 0 volts, aids in diagnosing potential issues in cooling systems. Familiarizing oneself with how voltages are distributed across different components can significantly enhance troubleshooting skills in HVAC systems.