One embodiment of the present invention is a method to control input to an alternating current (AC) induction motor from a power supply that includes steps of: (a) determining a measure of reactive power (VAR) in two input lines to the motor during a time period; and (b) maintaining an SSR (solid state relay) connected in series between the power supply and the motor in a non-conducting state for a subsequent time period, the length of which subsequent time period is determined by analyzing the measure of VAR.