There are many different components of an air conditioner and each has its own role. As each of the components work together, when one fails the entire air conditioning system suffers. Some components can be very big while others are very small. Even the small components can have a major role they must accomplish. One of these smaller components are the capacitors. When the capacitors fail they can have a major effect on the air conditioning system. New York Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing will share what the capacitors do and how to tell if your capacitors are not working properly.
What is the Role of the AC Capacitor?
The air conditioner’s capacitors play an essential role in the cooling process and during each cooling cycle. The capacitors are responsible for providing the needed electrical currents that start the motors that powers both the compressor and fan of the air conditioning system. There are two types of capacitors used in an air conditioner. There is the “start capacitor” and the “run capacitor.” The start capacitor provides the electrical current or boost of power to start the compressor’s motor. The run capacitor provides a continuous electrical current to keep the motor running throughout a cooling cycle.
What Happens when AC Capacitor Goes Bad?
Without a properly functioning capacitor, the motors in an air conditioning system would not be able to start or run efficiently. This will lead to poor cooling performance, increased energy consumption, and even potential damage to the air conditioning system. When the capacitor shows signs that they are going bad, it’s important to ensure that the capacitors in your air conditioner are replaced before they fail.
How Do I Know if My AC Capacitor is Bad?
There are a number of signs that can indicate that the capacitors are wearing down or are bad. Some of the most common signs of bad capacitors are:
• The air conditioner unit will not turn on or it takes a long time to start. If the capacitor is failing, it may not be able to provide the necessary electrical current to start the air conditioner. As a result, the system may take a long time to turn on or it will not turn on at all.
• The air conditioner has weak airflow this is because, the capacitor is responsible for powering the fan motor. If the capacitor is failing, the fan may not run at full speed, which will result in weaker airflow.
• The air conditioner unit may make strange noises. A failing capacitor can cause the air conditioner to make strange noises like a buzzing or humming sound.
• The air conditioner unit is tripping the circuit breaker. A failing capacitor may draw more current than it is supposed to, which will cause the circuit breaker to trip frequently.
• The air conditioner is running but is not cooling. A failing capacitor can cause the compressor to run inefficiently, resulting in poor cooling performance and efficiency.
Central Air Conditioner Maintenance, Repair, Replacement & More in Bedford Hills, Manhattan, Flushing, Queens, Brooklyn & The Bronx, New York
When you notice signs of a failing or bad capacitor you will want to contact a professional HVAC service to replace your air conditioner’s capacitors. For quality HVAC services contact New York Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing today.
