If you have an air conditioning system in your home, then you have AC capacitors. But what are they? What do they do? In this blog post, we will elaborate on what they are, how they function in a heating system and explain their benefits.
The AC capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy. It is connected to the compressor of your air conditioning system. The purpose of the AC capacitor is to help start the compressor when the air conditioner is turned on. The capacitor provides a boost of power to the compressor, which helps it start up quickly and efficiently.
Without the AC capacitor, the compressor would have to work harder to start, which would use more energy and cause your air conditioner to be less efficient. So, the AC capacitor is an important part of your air conditioning system. It helps keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.
When the AC compressor starts, it creates a large amount of electricity. This electricity is used to spin the AC motor. The problem is that this electricity can also damage the AC motor.
Type of AC Capacitors
There are two types of AC capacitors: start and run. Start capacitors help the AC motor start up by providing a boost of electricity. Once the AC motor is running, the start capacitor is no longer needed and is disconnected from the circuit. Run capacitors, on the other hand, stay connected to the circuit at all times. They help the AC motor run more efficiently by providing a steady flow of electricity.
If your AC system is having trouble starting up, it’s likely that the start capacitor is failing. If the AC system is running but not as efficiently as it should, the run capacitor may be to blame. In either case, it’s best to diagnose your system and purchase a new capacitor or find a certified technician to take a look at your AC system and replace the capacitor if necessary.
Repairing Process
Replacing an AC capacitor is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair. However, if not done properly, it can cause serious damage to your AC system. If you are not confident enough, we always recommend that homeowners leave this repair to the professionals.
We Diagnose the Problem
Your air conditioner capacitor is an important part of the cooling process. If it fails, your AC will not work properly. In the diagnosing phase, the first thing you need to do is identify the problem. If your AC is not working properly, it could be due to a number of different issues. One possibility is that the capacitor has failed. To test for this, our technicians use a voltmeter.
First, we locate the capacitor. It should be located near the compressor. Once we have located it, we use the voltmeter to test the capacitor. If the reading is 0, then the capacitor has failed and needs to be replaced.
We Discharge the Capacitor
There is a right way and a wrong way to replace a capacitor. If you don’t discharge the power in the capacitor before replacing it, you run the risk of getting shocked. To discharge the power in the capacitor, we use a screwdriver and an alligator clip. First, we remove the screws that hold the cover on the capacitor. Next, we touch the screwdriver to the positive and negative terminals of the capacitor. Finally, we connect the alligator clip to the screwdriver and ground it on a metal surface. This will safely discharge the power in the capacitor. This lets our technicians replace your capacitor without worry!
We Dismount the Old Capacitor
It’s finally time to replace that old capacitor. So, first things first: you’ll notice our technicians have a few tools. A screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a soldering iron will all come in handy. Armed with these supplies, it’s time to start disassembling the old capacitor. First, we use the screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold it in place. Then, we carefully pull the capacitor out of its housing.
Next, we use the soldering iron to heat up the two terminals on the back of the capacitor. This will release any residual charge that may be stored in the capacitor. Finally, we use the pliers to twist the terminals off of the capacitor.
Noting the Difference
There is a lot of confusion about the difference between dual and run-on start capacitors. This comes with serious confusion about their differences in connectivity. Dual start capacitors are ideal for applications that require two separate power sources. Run-on start capacitors are perfect for single-power source applications. Let’s take a closer look at each type!
A dual-start capacitor is two capacitors in one housing. The two capacitors are connected in series and have different voltage ratings. This type of capacitor is used in applications where two separate power sources are required. For example, a dual-start capacitor may be used in an air conditioner that has a 115-volt and 230-volt power source.
A run-on start capacitor is a single capacitor that is used in applications where only one power source is required. This type of capacitor is connected in parallel with the run winding of the motor. The run-on start capacitor provides a boost of energy to the motor when it starts up. This extra boost of energy helps the motor to start up faster and run more smoothly. The type of capacitor fitted on your AC system will determine the type of connectivity you will use in your capacitor replacement
Choosing the Right Capacitor
When choosing a replacement capacitor for your AC, it is important to consider the size of the unit. If you have a small AC unit, you will not need as large of a capacitor as someone with a larger AC unit. The size of the capacitor is also determined by the voltage that it needs to operate. A higher voltage capacitor will be larger than a lower voltage capacitor.
It is also important to consider the climate in which you live when choosing a replacement capacitor. If you live in a hot climate, you will need a capacitor that can withstand high temperatures. On the other hand, if you live in a cold climate, you will need a capacitor that can withstand low temperatures.
Fit the Capacitor
Once you have the correct capacitor, it’s important to turn off the power to your AC unit. When you contact our technicians, we will remove the old capacitor and install the new one. We will also make sure that the new capacitor is rated for the same voltage as the old one. We then solder the new capacitor in place, making sure that the polarity is correct. Next, we screw it into its housing and replace any other parts that you removed during disassembly. Finally, our technicians will turn on the power to your AC unit and test it to make sure that it is working properly.
Contact Us
Most homeowners are unable to replace their own capacitors. If this is the case, please consult a professional. Polar Air & Heating, Inc. has an experienced team that delivers quality heating and cooling services in Las Vegas. We offer a wide range of services from indoor humidifier and air purifier installation to ductless mini-split repairs. Get in touch today and enjoy our qualified services from certified technicians.
