Around 80% of all central air conditioner unit faults are caused by electrical difficulties, and in a significant deal of these cases, the capacitor is to blame. A service visit to replace AC capacitor can easily cost $300 to $400 or more, but the item itself is frequently only $10 to $20, thus the benefits of changing the part yourself are evident. And, while many air conditioner repairs should be left to the professionals, this is one you can tackle on your own.
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The Capacitor’s Function
Capacitors perform a variety of purposes in many electrical appliances and gadgets, but in a central air conditioner, they act as a sort of battery, storing enough electrical power to activate the system’s several motors – the compressor, the blower motor, and the outside fan. When a motor begins, it temporarily demands a large amount of power, and the capacitor stores the electrical energy required to “jump-start” these motors.
While some air conditioners use a single capacitor to power all three motors, others use separate capacitors to power the compressor, forced air blower, and exterior fan.
Capacitor Failure Symptoms
Capacitors can be destroyed by high-voltage power surges, although they are more frequently damaged by aging and losing their capacity to store a charge. One of the following symptoms may occur when a start or run capacitor begins to fail:
When a capacitor begins to fail, an audible clicking sound may be heard within the cabinet. If you hear this, immediately replace the capacitor with an HVAC replacement in Fairfax VA, since the motor may burn out if the capacitor fails to start.
When a capacitor is totally discharged, the air conditioner motor may attempt to start but will likely create a buzzing noise rather than properly starting. This problem is easily audible. Once again, this indicates the necessity for quick replacement.
When the capacitor connected to the compressor begins to deteriorate, it may result in a “hard-starting” problem in which the air conditioner tries to start but then shuts down nearly instantly. Replace the capacitator immediately, as this condition places a significant load on the compressor and other system components.
DIY Capacitor Replacement
Replacing a capacitor is not difficult and can be accomplished with only a few simple tools and supplies, most of which you probably already have. However, it’s critical to note that capacitors are meant to retain electrical current, and hence pose a risk of shock if touched or disconnected without first discharging any stored charge. To discharge, just drag the blade of a screwdriver over the two metal contacts. If you do not, you risk receiving an unpleasant shock.
Turn OFF the Power in Step 1
Turn off the air conditioner’s electricity. Typically, a block fuse or a local circuit breaker will be situated in a box near the outdoor air conditioner unit; in order to turn off the electricity, you must take out the block fuse or turn off the circuit breaker.
If there is no outdoor shut-off box, turn off the electricity at the main service panel by switching off the circuit breaker controlling the air conditioner. This will be a 240-volt double-bar breaker branded “air conditioner.” Additionally, switch the thermostat in your home to the OFF setting. This will prevent the capacitor from receiving short bursts of low-voltage current while you operate.
Remove the Access Panel in Step 2
Remove the mounting screws from the access panel for your air conditioner unit using a nut driver. Typically, this panel is situated on the air conditioner’s upper corner. Keep the cover and screws in a secure location.
Purchase a New Capacitor
Inside the panel, locate the capacitor. Typically, it is fashioned like a can and features a sticker on the side. Take note of the technical data on the sticker — the load voltage, capacitance, and tolerance. Replace the capacitor with one that meets the same specs. While the new capacitor’s form may be somewhat different, this is not an issue as long as it can be put in the current area.
Discharge the Capacitor and Label the Wires
Even after the power is switched off, the capacitor may still contain stored energy, which must be drained before working on it securely.
To discharge the capacitor, place the blade of an insulated screwdriver over the capacitor’s two metal terminals. This essentially “short circuits” the capacitor, discharging any remaining charge.
Examine the old capacitor and take note of the locations of the three wires — fan, common, and compressor. The top of the old capacitor should be marked “Fan” for fan, “C” for common, and “Herm” for a compressor. Label each wire with a little piece of tape and a marker to indicate which terminal it was attached to.
Detach the spade wire connections and wires from the old capacitor at this point. Remove the capacitor from the device by unscrewing the mounting strap and drawing it out.
Replace the Capacitor
Replace the capacitor in the same location as the previous one. Secure it in place with a mounting strap — either the original or a new one, if necessary. Connect the ends of the spade wire connectors to the appropriate posts on the new capacitor, ensuring proper connection: fan wire to “Fan” post; common wire to “C” post; compressor wire to “Herm” post.
Power On and Perform a Test
Restart the air conditioner by resetting the circuit breaker or reinserting the block fuse in the power box.
Reset the thermostat to the ON position and then adjust the thermostat to a low setting to activate the air conditioner. If it does not perform properly, the most likely problem is that the capacitor’s wire leads were connected improperly. Reconnect the power; discharge the capacitor; then inspect the wire connections once more. Replace the access cover once you have verified that the device is operating properly.
Author Bio:
Charity Prado is a Freelance Writer and CEO of Inside Roof. She always loves to write about the Home Trending Decoration and Remodeling Ideas. In her free time, she loves to watch movies and read books or online blogs to explore more about Cozy Home.
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