The coil of a potential relay used with small single-phase compressors should have a resistance of approximately?

The appropriate resistance for the coil of a potential relay used with small single-phase compressors is approximately 10,000 ohms. This value is ideal because it allows the relay to operate efficiently while providing the necessary sensitivity to detect the voltage in the circuit. Potential relays are designed to monitor the voltage levels of the compressor motor and, at around 10,000 ohms, the resistance ensures that the relay activates at the correct voltage thresholds to protect the motor from issues like overload or under-voltage conditions.

Having too high or too low a resistance could lead to improper functioning of the relay. A resistance significantly above 10,000 ohms could result in the relay being less sensitive, potentially leading to failure to disengage the compressor motor, while a resistance that is significantly lower could cause the relay to activate too readily, risking premature wear or unnecessary cycling of the compressor. Thus, the chosen value of 10,000 ohms strikes a balance that aligns with typical operating conditions for these small single-phase compressors.