Systems and methods for determining proper phase rotation in a linear motor where the phase rotations associated with power and return strokes are initially unknown. Power having an initial phase rotation is provided to a linear motor until the motor's mover reaches the end of the stroke, and then power to the motor is discontinued. While power is discontinued, the mover is monitored to detect its movement. if the mover moves without power, the mover was at the top of the stroke, so the initial phase rotation is associated with an upward stroke of the mover, and a second phase rotation which is opposite the initial phase rotation is associated with a downward stroke of the mover. Otherwise, the initial phase rotation is associated with the downward stroke of the mover and the second, opposite phase rotation is associated with the upward stroke of the mover.