Abstract: Disclosed is a method of starting an electronically commutated DC motor including a stator having at least one winding and a rotor. The winding is excited with at least one initial start pulse having a voltage and a repetition frequency which are sufficient to ensure rotation of the rotor under a maximum load in normal operation. Back EMF generated in the winding by the rotation of the rotor is detected. If the back EMF is detected, the rotation of the motor is controlled based on the detected back EMF. If the back EMF is not detected, the voltage of the at least one initial start pulse is increased until any of (i) the back EMF is detected, (ii) a current generated in the winding by said at least one initial start pulse reaches a maximum acceptable current level, and (iii) the voltage of said at least one initial start pulse reaches a maximum acceptable voltage level. In the latest instance, supply of the at least one initial start pulse to the winding is discontinued.