Does swapping L and N reverse a single-phase motor?

No. Swapping line (L) and neutral (N) on a single-phase motor changes nothing: the motor still gets the same alternating voltage on the same windings and turns the same way. The myth comes from three-phase motors, where swapping any two phases really does reverse them. A single-phase capacitor motor is reversed by swapping the ends of the auxiliary (start) winding.

Reverse a single-phase motor: does swapping L and N work? (No)

For 230/400 V installations to IEC standards (Europe, UK and most of the world). North America uses different voltages, colours and rules: see the “Around the world” notes.

Diagram: single-phase motor with main winding, auxiliary winding and capacitor; reversing by swapping the auxiliary winding ends — Simplified. Terminal markings differ between motors.

Why swapping L and N does nothing

A motor, like any ordinary load, does not "know" which wire is line and which is neutral. It simply sees an alternating voltage between two points. Swap them and it is still the same voltage, on the same windings, in the same arrangement. The rotating field that decides the direction does not change at all.

Where the myth comes from

It is a mix-up with three-phase motors. There, swapping any two of the three phases (for example L1 with L2) changes the phase sequence, which reverses the rotating field and the motor. That rule is real, it just belongs to a different kind of motor. See forward-reverse control.

How a single-phase motor is really reversed

A typical single-phase induction motor with a capacitor has two windings: the main (run) winding and the auxiliary (start) winding, shifted in phase by the capacitor. That phase shift sets the direction. To reverse it, you swap the ends of the auxiliary winding relative to the main winding (or use the motor's reversing switch, if it has one), not L and N on the supply.

Not every single-phase motor can be reversed electrically. Shaded-pole motors, common in small fans, have their direction fixed by construction. Always check the rating plate or the wiring diagram of your motor rather than a generic recipe.

In short: three-phase, swap two phases to reverse. Single-phase: swapping L and N changes nothing; direction is changed through the auxiliary winding and capacitor, individually for each motor.

Important: isolate the supply and wait for the capacitor to discharge before touching the terminals. A charged capacitor can give you a shock even with the motor switched off.