The Maytag Man came by again

there are a couple of reasons for using a wax motor:

1. it's a thermal device - it will not release immediately upon power failure - that provides added safety in a consumer appliance.
2. as pointed out by others, a simpler driver can be used (also, much less power)
3. delayed operation is a safety feature also in this case.
4. once the bad thermistors are removed (that were blowing the traics), it's a very reliable device - probably more so than a solenoid.
5. it's cheaper than a solenoid (no copper coil)

I believe the dominant design consideration is #1

SNIP

My dad has a Maytag washing machine from the 1920's that he occasionally starts up. 1/2 HP Maytag Multimotor.

I remember him pointing out a Maytag "Fruit Jar Engine" when we'd go to farm auctions.

Tim.