What is the lifespan of a capacitor in an AC unit?

Author: Adelia Fritsch  |  Last update: Friday, January 2, 2026

On average, an AC capacitor might last between 5-20 years. However, some factors can affect the lifespan of your AC capacitor. For example, living in an area with high humidity levels like Florida can cause your capacitor to rust and break down more quickly.

How often do AC capacitors need to be replaced?

For most ACs, this is about 15 to 20 years. However, even though your air conditioner might be rated to last this long, this doesn't mean that all of its components will. In most households, AC capacitors need to be replaced approximately twice throughout an air conditioner's lifespan.

What are the signs of a bad AC capacitor?

Most common first signs of a bad AC capacitor:
  • Vents Not Blowing Cold Air. ...
  • Higher Than Usual Energy Bills. ...
  • Unusual Compressor Humming Noises. ...
  • Older HVAC System. ...
  • Independent Shutdown. ...
  • Sluggish Turn On and Operation. ...
  • AC is Inoperable.

What kills an AC capacitor?

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.

What is the life expectancy of an AC capacitor?

Most capacitors for AC will last 20 years or more. However, the issues listed above can significantly reduce your unit's life expectancy.

How long does AC capacitor last?

What is the average cost to replace a AC capacitor?

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.

Is it OK to run AC with bad capacitor?

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.

Can an AC run without a capacitor?

When you switch on your AC, numerous components work together to cool your space effectively. Among these, capacitors play a crucial role. These components are essential for powering your air conditioner, enabling it to operate efficiently. Without capacitors, your system simply couldn't function.

Why do HVAC capacitors fail so often?

A fan motor or compressor with worn-out bearings may cause the capacitor to work harder and fail. If the relay switch on your air conditioner malfunctions, it may cause the capacitor to overheat. Damage from lightning or power surges also affects the capacitors, causing them to fail.

Can I replace an AC capacitor myself?

Since AC capacitors are high-voltage components that might cause significant injury to you even if the power is out, it is strongly recommended against changing them yourself. Follow any instructions provided with your new unit purchase if you're thinking about replacing your own AC capacitor filter.

How do I know if I need a new AC capacitor?

After having your helper shut the system off, you will want to stand next to the blower or the HVAC unit to hear if the unit makes any noises when it tries to start. If you don't hear anything and the unit doesn't try to start, the problem is due to something other than the capacitor.

Can a bad AC capacitor cause a high electric bill?

Failure to blow enough cold air into the room is the most obvious sign that the capacitor is faulty. Other possible signs of a faulty AC capacitor include: High electricity bills: Your energy bills may surge simply because the capacitor is not operational.

How to test if a capacitor is bad?

Ans: To test a motor capacitor, first disconnect and discharge it safely. Use a multimeter set to go into capacitance mode and connect the leads to the capacitor terminals. A good capacitor will show a capacitance value close to its rating. Alternatively, an ohmmeter reading should start low and rise to infinity.

Is it worth replacing the capacitor on an AC unit?

All AC and heat pump capacitors fail eventually.

Capacitors are one of the most common parts that need to be replaced on residential air conditioning systems. They typically provide several years of service, but you'll need to replace them at least once if you keep the same air conditioner for more than ten years.

What is the life expectancy of an AC compressor?

Your air conditioner compressor should last the whole lifespan of your air conditioner, about twelve years or more if you choose a ClimateCare air conditioner. However, it might not last that long if your air conditioner is too small for the space it's cooling, or if you don't keep your air conditioner well-maintained.

What is the average lifespan of a capacitor?

Over time, capacitors degrade due to normal wear and tear. When combined with heat exposure, a capacitor's average life span of 20 years can plummet. Improper voltage.

What is the root cause of capacitor failure?

What is the cause of the failure? High ripple current flowed into the capacitor and the capacitor heated up beyond its design value. The heat generated reduced the insulation of the capacitor. As the result, the capacitor failed short-circuit and the gas generated from the electrolyte.

How can I tell if my AC capacitor is bad?

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.

Will an AC fan work if the capacitor is bad?

The answer is a resounding no. An air conditioning unit will stop working with a faulty capacitor unless you get hold of Coral Springs' air conditioning repair experts.

How long does it take to replace a capacitor on an air conditioner?

In most cases, replacing an AC capacitor will take between 1 and 2 hours. However, some more complex cases could take up to 4 hours.

What blows a capacitor on AC unit?

A power surge or lightning strike.

If your home is struck by lightning or encounters a power surge, the surge can overwhelm your capacitors and cause them to blow. A short circuit. If there is a short circuit in one of your air conditioner's electrical components, any one of your capacitors can be affected.

What is the life expectancy of a capacitor in an air conditioner?

AC capacitors are designed to last for many years, but eventually, they will need to be replaced. On average, an AC capacitor might last between 5-20 years.

How many capacitors are in an AC unit?

Depending on how your HVAC system is built, there may be two single capacitors or one dual capacitor in your outdoor unit. Systems requiring two single capacitors need a start capacitor and run capacitor to function properly.

Will an AC fan run with a bad compressor?

While your AC fan may continue to run if the compressor is bad, this doesn't mean your system is functioning properly.

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