What Are Air Conditioner Capacitors and What Do They Do?

If you want your air conditioner's motor systems to run and remain running, you need a functioning AC capacitor. Capacitors are necessary in order to start the unit's motor systems and to keep them going. Air conditioning systems retain three separate motors, all of which require continuous power to stay operational. The capacitors are the components that provide this constant source of electricity to keep the motors running. Continue reading to learn more about air conditioner capacitors and how they can influence your indoor air comfort this summer!

AC Capacitor Manufacturers in India

Air conditioning capacitors temporarily store electricity, or an electric charge, to give the motor systems a "jump start" or an extra surge of energy that it requires. A fan cannot get going fast enough on the meager 120 volts the average motor systems supply to a unit. The capacitors jolt the unit to life and get the motors rolling and the fan spinning in order to cool a home efficiently.

If an AC capacitor is non-functional, you can bet your air conditioner will not turn on. It will actually cause a unit to use more electricity to operate, resulting in increased utility bills each month. If a capacitor is defective, it will not supply the adequate indoor air comfort you are accustomed to receiving from your AC unit.

AC Capacitor Suppliers in India

Detecting Problems

A failed or defective capacitor is among the most common reasons behind air conditioner breakdowns every summer. Often times, these components can be replaced on your own, while other models may require the assistance of a licensed HVAC professional. Capacitors are manufactured in several different sizes, shapes, and colors. The type of capacitor needed will depend on the make and model cooling system.

You can identify whether or not your air conditioner system is suffering from a blown or defective capacitor with a couple easy checks. First, if the unit is making a humming sound when the fans are not running, it may be from a blown capacitor. If you take a chopstick and push one of the fan blades, and the fan starts to go on its own, you may have a defective capacitor.

Call a licensed heating and cooling contractor for advice on replacing Ac parts, or for needed air conditioning repairs or unit replacements. Blown fuses and other components may be a tell-tale sign that your unit is ready to be replaced, or in need of major repairs.