Inside your AC’s outdoor unit, one of the most important components of your HVAC system is housed. If you look in there, you’ll see a whole bunch of wires and a small, canister-type component that resembles a battery. That’s your AC capacitor. That little piece of equipment does a very big job for your HVAC system.
The AC capacitor is responsible for providing all the energy to your AC system’s motor to cool your home. This small part has the power to stop your HVAC system in its tracks if it malfunctions or fails.
A word to the wise: AC capacitors are high-voltage parts that are dangerous to work with…this is not something that any homeowner should try to DIY. To prevent injury or even death, you should always call a trained and licensed HVAC technician for both diagnosis and repair.
What Does the AC Capacitor Do?
Your AC uses a lot of power, and it takes a big jolt of energy to get it started. The capacitor is often compared to a battery, but it’s not the same. Even though your AC is connected to your home’s electrical wiring, it isn’t enough to kickstart the AC when you need cool air. The capacitor compensates for the lack, making sure your AC has the energy to get the job done. Failed capacitors are a common problem because it has a strenuous job.
Signs of a Failing or Failed Capacitor
The capacitor wears out over time, but it can also fail when extremely hot temperatures cause the device to overheat. Power surges or lightning strikes can also damage the capacitor. Here are signs that your AC’s capacitor is not working properly:
- Your AC won’t start the cooling cycle.
- Your AC shuts itself off.
- You aren’t feeling cold air when the AC is running.
- You hear a humming noise when the AC is running.
- Your energy bills went up without any reason.
- You smell burning or see smoke from the AC unit.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, turn your HVAC unit off and call Pro-Tech HVAC Home. An HVAC technician has the tools and knowledge to test the capacitor’s current and to make repairs correctly. Some of the signs of a damaged capacitor are also signs of other problems with your HVAC unit. If the problem isn’t with the capacitor, a professional technician can check out other issues to find the problem.
Start and Run Capacitors – What’s the Difference?
ACs have two different types of capacitors: Start and Run. The start capacitor delivers the burst of energy it takes to start the motor. Once the motor gets running, the run capacitor stores and releases energy to maintain the motor. Some ACs have two single capacitors, while others have a dual capacitor system. If you have a system with single capacitors, if one breaks down, our technician may recommend replacing both parts with a dual capacitor. The dual capacitor is more convenient and usually easier to replace than single capacitors. If one capacitor has broken down, it would make sense to replace both to avoid the headache of the other one breaking down.
Can I Replace my AC Capacitor Myself?
No, you can’t. Only a licensed HVAC technician should replace your AC capacitor. Our PROfessional TECHnicians have the experience to be able to correctly remove your defunct capacitor and replace it with a new one that will get your AC working like it should.
RELATED: Why Do-It-Yourself HVAC Repairs Are a Bad Idea
Keeping Your AC Running Efficiently
Although you can’t prevent your capacitor from failing, you can have preventative HVAC maintenance to make sure that your system is in the best condition to keep your utility bills low and to maintain a comfortable home. Our technicians perform AC seasonal maintenance before the Summer season.
Preventative maintenance reduces unexpected breakdowns during peak usage. Our technicians often find frayed wires, rust, leaks, clogs and corroded parts that can be replaced before they shut your system down during the hottest part of the summer. Being proactive with your HVAC system can extend its lifespan and give you peace of mind that your HVAC isn’t eating up too much of your energy costs.
We’re Here to Help YOU.
If your air conditioning system just isn’t keeping you cool, contact us at Pro-Tech HVAC Home to fix your AC unit. One of our PROfessional TECHnicians will diagnose your problem and get your AC back to working condition so you can STAY COOL all Summer!
Pro-Tech HVAC Home is Your Top Rated Local HVAC Company!
When it comes to HVAC services, you need to work with a company with a stellar reputation for providing service that is guaranteed to solve your problems once and for all. As Annapolis’ Top Rated Local HVAC contractor, that’s what you get with Pro-Tech HVAC Home. Our customers rely on us for fast, friendly service at a fair price. Our #1 priority is keeping our Annapolis neighbors comfortable all year long!
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Pro-Tech HVAC Home offers new installation, replacement, repairs and maintenance of heating and air conditioning systems in the Annapolis area. Our customers rely on us for honest and reliable service for air conditioners, heat pumps, gas furnaces, Mitsubishi systems, and more. We’re happy to answer questions, troubleshoot, and help you choose the best HVAC system for you and your family. We’re always happy to help answer your questions, so please give us a call or send us an email.