A/C Capacitors Explained

What is an Air Conditioner Capacitor?

An air conditioner capacitor is arguably the most important electrical component for your entire system. Responsible for storing and releasing the electrical energy in your air conditioning system, when it malfunctions or fails your entire system suffers. Usually located inside the outdoor unit of an air conditioning system, it is small and cylindrical in shape.

Capacitors are widely used in power supplies, audio equipment, and motor controllers, among others. They are most applicable to ensure proper operation and safety in electrically powered devices. Used for various functions, but most commonly needed to regulate voltage fluctuations and removing unwanted noise from active circuits.

Why Does My A/C Need a Capacitor?

In a nutshell, the A/C capacitor provides the electricity needed to start and continue running. When your A/C starts it needs a larger burst of power than it does to continue to run. The capacitor is responsible for providing this extra electrical boost necessary to get the motor and the fan started. It completes this by storing electrical energy and releasing it when needed.

How Do I Replace A Failing A/C Capacitor?

Capacitors can come in different sizes and capacitance ratings, and they may be designed for different types of motors. If a capacitor fails, it can cause the air conditioning system to malfunction or stop working altogether. If you suspect your A/C capacitor of failing it is important to have it replaced as soon as possible by a qualified technician. Your No Sweat Air Conditioning professional can order the right capacitor for your A/C unit, remove the failing part and replace it with a new one, minimizing the downtime of your system.