Have you ever been stranded in your home on a hot summer day with an air conditioner that would not work? If yes, one of the most important things you should check is the air conditioner capacitor. AC capacitors are vital components that help your air conditioner run efficiently and effectively. Identifying the right type of capacitor for your air conditioner and learning how to replace it can help keep your home cool all summer. Discover more about air conditioner capacitors and how they work in this blog!
What Are Air Conditioner Capacitors?
Air conditioner capacitors are small devices that store electrical energy as an electric field. They act like a buffer, collecting excess electrical energy and releasing it into the system when needed. This continuous flow helps regulate the temperature in your home or office space. That ensures the air conditioner does not overwork itself. Capacitors also help protect other air conditioner components from damage caused by high voltage spikes.
How to Identify the Right Type of Capacitor for Your Air Conditioner
When it comes to AC repair, choosing the right capacitor for your air conditioner can be tricky. Capacitors help start and run motors used in HVAC systems, so choosing one that fits your system specs is important. So what kind of capacitor do you need? Read on to find out which capacitor is right for your air conditioning system.
Types of Air Conditioner Capacitors
The two main types of capacitors used in air conditioners are Start and Run capacitors. The Start capacitor inducts a single high-voltage pulse to get the compressor motor running. In contrast, the Run capacitor remains connected to the motor during operation and helps keep it running smoothly.
Getting the right capacitor for your AC unit is a breeze! Begin by checking the label within the access panel for manufacturer information. Next, write down the exact specs of the existing capacitor, such as voltage rating, microfarads, and so on. Once you get all the info ready, it is time to shop online or in person for an identical replacement.
Common Capacitor Brands
Some of the most common capacitor brands include Marathon, AO Smith, Carrier, Clifford, Genteq, Siemens, Trane, and York. To help protect your investment, we recommend choosing a name-brand capacitor with a warranty. Also, always follow all safety precautions for any AC maintenance and installation. Finally, if you have doubts about replacing parts on your own, it is best to consult an expert.
How to Replace an Air Conditioner Capacitor
Replacing air conditioner capacitors is a simple task that anyone can do. With just a few tools, follow this guide:
- Make sure your AC unit is off and unplugged.
- Locate the old capacitor and remove it from the unit. Once you have removed the old capacitor, you can install the new one.
- Check that all wires are firmly connected and there are no signs of damage or corrosion.
- Once the new capacitor has been wired in, plug in your AC unit and switch it on.
- You should then test the capacitor to make sure it is working correctly. To do this, use a multimeter to measure the capacitance and ensure it matches within ten percent of the value in your owner’s manual.
If all is well, your air conditioner should be running again! By replacing your old capacitors every season, you can be sure your AC is running smoothly and efficiently.
The Importance of the Right AC Capacitors for Your Air Conditioner
Selecting and replacing the right capacitor when servicing or repairing air conditioners is important. Failure to do so can damage the unit and put you at risk of possible fire hazards, electric shock, or other dangerous conditions. Thus, for safety, always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety protocols before servicing or replacing the capacitor.
Air Conditioner Repair Near Me
Is your air conditioner acting up and leaving you sweltering in the heat? Then, do not let the summer heat beat you down! At Pioneers Heating and Air, we pride ourselves on being the trusted source of reliable air conditioning and electrical services in the South Pasadena area. We are a BBB-rated, licensed contractor specializing in HVAC repairs, AC capacitor replacement, and more. Call us at (626) 217-0559 for a free estimate or to schedule a service call and experience the difference!
