Your air conditioner relies on several key components to run smoothly, one of which is the capacitor. While it’s a small part, the capacitor plays a big role in powering the motors that start and run your air conditioner system. When it starts to fail, your entire system can act up or stop working altogether. So, how do you know if your air conditioner capacitor is going bad? North Country Aire will take a closer look at the most common signs and why this component is so important.
What Does an Air Conditioner Capacitor Do?
Capacitors are responsible for delivering the initial jolt of electricity your air conditioner needs to start up and continue running. Most air conditioner units have two capacitors:
• Start capacitor: Helps power the system during startup.
• Run capacitor: Keeps the compressor and fan motors running efficiently.
If either one fails, your air conditioner won’t operate properly or may not run at all.
Common Signs of a Failing Air Conditioner Capacitor
Your Air Conditioner Takes a Long Time to Start: A sluggish or delayed startup is a classic symptom of a failing start capacitor. The unit may struggle to turn on or make several attempts before finally running.
The Air Conditioner Shuts Off on Its Own: If your system starts up but then shuts off after a few minutes, it could be because the run capacitor isn’t supplying steady power. This causes the system to overheat and shut down as a safety measure.
You Hear Clicking or Humming Sounds: Unusual sounds like clicking, buzzing, or humming may come from the capacitor trying to engage but failing. This sound can come from either the outdoor unit or the indoor air handler.
The Fan Isn’t Spinning: If your air conditioner unit is on, but the fan isn’t spinning, it could be a capacitor issue. Sometimes you can see or hear the unit trying to operate without success.
Your Energy Bills Are Going Up: A faulty run capacitor can make your system work harder to stay running, which decreases efficiency and increases your monthly energy bills. If you notice a spike in costs without a change in usage, a weak capacitor might be to blame.
Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Blowing Cold Air: Even if the system appears to be running, a bad capacitor can prevent it from properly powering the compressor or fan. The result? Weak airflow or air that isn’t cool at all.
Your Air Conditioner Won’t Turn On at All: In the worst-case scenario, the capacitor can fail completely, preventing the system from turning on. If nothing happens when you adjust the thermostat, a failed capacitor might be the issue.
Central Air Conditioning Inspection, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Repair, Tune Up Maintenance & More in Mora, Cambridge, St. Francis, Oak Grove, North Branch & Greater Isanti, Minnesota
A capacitor replacement is not a DIY job. Capacitors store high-voltage electricity even when the system is off, which makes them dangerous to handle without proper training and tools. Always call a licensed HVAC technician to inspect and replace a faulty capacitor. If your air conditioner is showing any of these signs, don’t wait for a complete breakdown. Contact North Country Aire and schedule our visit today.
