If the problem is not resolved, it could lead to more serious issues, such as compressor failure. Other components inside air conditioners can sustain damage, too, due to a faulty capacitor. In some cases, a bad capacitor can also cause the AC unit to overheat, which can lead to system failure.
Weak capacitors will make motors and compressors run hot and have a higher chance of failing during a hot day by increasing already high head pressure. Also, when the capacitor fails completely, it will result in single phasing the circuit and burnout the compressor windings.
A failing capacitor may result in reduced cooling performance, leaving you with a less refreshing environment on hot summer days. You might notice that your AC takes longer to cool the space or fails to reach the desired temperature.
Without the capacitor the AC will not even start whatsoever. When changing the capacitor, the NEW Capacitor MUST have the OHMS rating that the old capacitor has, extremely important!
A dual capacitor powers both the fan and the compressor, which is the big pump housed in your outdoor cabinet that circulates refrigerant between the indoor evaporator and outdoor condensing unit.
Capacitors provide the power that certain A/C parts need to do their job. The average capacitor can last around 20 years, but in places like Arizona, things can be a little different, thanks to extreme heat.
Overheating. If your air conditioner is constantly running or is too old, this can cause the capacitor to overheat and fail. To prevent this, it's helpful to give your system a break every now and then by turning it off for a few hours. This will help prolong your air conditioner's life and its parts.
Outdoor AC fans are equipped with a few capacitors, which are like batteries that are capable of storing power to ensure the fan runs consistently. In the event that one of the capacitors malfunctions, the fan either won't start or will be unable to maintain the right speed.
While your AC will still work with a bad capacitor, it will struggle to function correctly. Eventually, the system will stop working altogether. Extended use can cause further damage internally. We recommend contacting a professional to handle the repairs so that you don't risk any damage to your air conditioning.
Faulty Contactor
If the contactor is faulty or worn out, it might not send the necessary voltage to the compressor, even though the fan receives enough power to run. This can create a scenario where the fan kicks on, but the compressor remains idle.
These are some of the factors that may be affecting the lifespan of AC capacitors: Heat exposure: Heat may be one of the most damaging elements for air conditioner capacitors. Exposing these units to high heat for extended periods shortens their lives and can cause significant damage to your unit.
For AC capacitor replacement, anticipate spending between $150 and $400, depending on the capacitor's type and accessibility. A bad AC capacitor is a fairly minor repair, and most HVAC technicians will recommend a repair rather than replacing the unit when the capacitor is the problem.
What are some symptoms of a failing AC compressor? Loud noises, hot air, airflow issues, uneven cooling, and electrical problems are all things you might run into when an AC compressor is on its last leg.
If the start capacitor malfunctions or wears out, it usually prevents the HVAC unit or the blower from turning on. A bad run capacitor won't prevent the unit from starting, but it can lead to the unit shutting down prematurely, overheating or making more noise than usual.
These components are essential for powering your air conditioner, enabling it to operate efficiently. Without capacitors, your system simply couldn't function. There are two main types of capacitors within your AC unit: start and run capacitors.
Test the Capacitor
Place the multimeter probes on the capacitor terminals. The multimeter will display a reading. Compare this reading to the rated capacitance value printed on the capacitor. If the reading is significantly lower than the rated value, the capacitor is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Most capacitors for AC will last 20 years or more. However, the issues listed above can significantly reduce your unit's life expectancy.
Some bad AC capacitor symptoms to watch for are warm air blowing out of your air vents, a humming noise or burning smell from the outdoor AC unit, unusually high electric bills, or your air conditioner starts turning off suddenly or not at all. Your air conditioner is one of the most important appliances in your home.
Dirty Filters
Clogged air filters reduce airflow from the return ducts to your evaporator coil. If you ignore the dirty filters long enough, the capacitor will overheat.
Minor power surges or other fluctuations in power also overload the capacitor and may cause it to fail. Your AC capacitor may also fail if the fan motor burns out or is somehow impeded from spinning freely. The capacitor continues to send power to try and operate the fan but eventually overloads and burns out.
On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one. However, your price will vary depending on factors like the size and brand of your compressor. Before you schedule your replacement, read on to learn about all AC compressor cost factors.