Overloads protect motors against which two conditions?

Overloads are essential components in electrical systems, especially in motors, as they are designed to protect against two critical conditions: overheating and high amp draw. When a motor experiences excessive current (high amp draw), it can lead to overheating due to increased power losses in the form of heat. This heat can cause insulation breakdown, motor winding damage, and ultimately lead to motor failure.

The overload protection device senses the current flowing through the motor. If the current exceeds a predefined threshold, it will trip and disconnect power to the motor, preventing potential damage caused by overheating. By addressing these two specific conditions, overloads help ensure longevity and reliable operation of motors in HVAC systems and other electrical applications.

Other options, while they may involve issues in the operation of motors, do not directly pertain to the protective functions of overloads. For instance, short circuits and low voltage typically relate to circuit protection devices rather than overloads. Humidity and dust accumulation affect the overall environment but are not conditions that overloads are designed to handle. Lastly, low RPM and excessive vibration are symptoms of mechanical issues rather than electrical overloads related to current flow and overheating.