Although most Americans have been using air-conditioning for our entire lives, not many of us are aware of what components actually make these machines tick. The capacitor is a kind of unsung hero of air-conditioning units, holding onto energy and then delivering that power to the parts of the A/C unit that need it. In a way, you can think of the capacitor as similar to a battery in function. When you first turn on your unit, you may actually even hear the capacitor start to work its magic as it breathes life into the fan motors and compressor. It also controls the motor that is responsible for getting the blower going.
Two Different Types of Popular Capacitors
Run capacitors are exactly what they sound like — these components keep the motors supplied with power, supporting the air conditioner’s operation while it is on.
Start capacitors, meanwhile, are like the spark plugs of the air-conditioning world. Providing the boost that the fans and compressors need to start running, these parts only function when you turn your unit on initially.
Why Is My Capacitor Breaking Down?
There are a number of reasons why a capacitor might start to fail. If your capacitor is part of a newer model air conditioner and there’s an issue, you may have a defect on your hands. In this case, you should reach out to the manufacturer and find out if there are any recalls or if the warranty is still valid. Power surges can be another cause of capacitor failure. If you live in a building that has been hit by several power surges for some reason, you may also find that your capacitor is starting to deteriorate before its time. Another very common reason for a capacitor breaking down is consistent exposure to excessive heat. Too much heat can cause a capacitor to fail before its average life cycle of up to 10 years.
How Do I Know If My Capacitor Is Starting to Fail?
There will be certain telltale signs when your capacitor starts to break down. Many times, you might hear that the unit sputters a bit when starting. Perhaps the motors don’t start whirring as quickly as they once did. Next, you may notice that there is no cold air coming out; this is one of the most clear signs that your unit is malfunctioning. Another sign of failure is a phenomenon technicians may refer to as “short cycling”; basically, you will hear the machine starting up, powering itself down, and then starting up once again. Another sign of a capacitor failure is a distinct humming sound. If you hear this, it’s time to reach out to the professionals. And, last but certainly not least, any leaks or burnt-out smells are the most dire signs that something is wrong. If you notice a burning smell or a leak, it’s definitely time to get someone out to take a close look at your air conditioner’s components.
Let the Team at One Hour Switch Out Your Capacitor
There are — literally — a lot of moving parts when it comes to your air conditioner. And replacing your capacitor is not usually deemed a DIY project. There are just too many variables that can go into taking apart an air-conditioning unit. When you suspect you’re dealing with a capacitor issue, it’s time to reach out to an experienced service professional at One Hour to diagnose and fix your issue. There is truly something special about the peace of mind you’ll receive once your capacitor’s issue has been addressed properly. After all, keeping your home comfortable is the name of the game.