What Does an Air Conditioner Capacitor Do?

Don’t let a faulty air conditioning capacitor keep you from getting the cool air you deserve. Contact Gladiator Services at 201-248-0952 for professional inspections and repairs.

As a homeowner, you expect your HVAC system to produce clean air quality and consistent indoor temperature. However, consistent performance from your appliance year-round depends on many complex components — such as the motor, condenser unit, and capacitor. You may wonder, “What does an air conditioner capacitor do?”

An AC capacitor connects to the wiring in your AC unit, supplying its motor with a sufficient electrical charge. The capacitor allows your HVAC system to perform efficiently, saving you money on monthly energy bills. With proper upkeep, capacitors can last as long as 15-20 years.

From inspections to replacements, technicians specializing in air conditioning repair in Franklin Lakes explain everything you need to know about capacitors.

What Is an Air Conditioner Capacitor?

Air conditioner capacitors look like small batteries but perform a slightly different role in your HVAC system. 

An AC capacitor jumpstarts your unit by sending pulses of electricity to the system’s motor. Capacitors are necessary because your home’s electrical wiring does not provide enough energy to keep the AC unit running.

Once the motor is active, your capacitor will feed the unit during its cooling cycle from power stored between its electrical charge plates. AC systems consume a significant amount of electricity throughout the day. Capacitors ensure that the motor always has an adequate energy supply to keep the AC running and cooling your home.

You should expect your AC unit to turn off now and again as it regulates indoor temperatures. Your capacitor will reduce its energy output during these cycles until it is time for the motor to start running again. 

Frequent on/off cycles can wear down the capacitor over time, causing malfunctions that prevent the AC unit from performing at its recommended capacity. That is why monitoring your HVAC system for damage throughout the year is so important.

Capacitor Voltage and Microfarads

Now that you have an answer to the question, “What does an air conditioner capacitor do,” let’s get into the details of how they work.

A technician measures your capacitor’s performance by determining its voltage and microfarad levels. High-voltage capacitors transmit electricity much faster than lower-voltage alternatives — making them ideal for large HVAC systems that require significant power. 

Microfarads determine how much energy your capacitor can store. Capacitors for residential air conditioners typically provide at least five microfarads. However, large capacitors for industrial applications may provide up to 80 microfarads.

The Difference Between Start and Run Capacitors

Some outdoor air conditioning units rely on two separate capacitors — a start capacitor and a run capacitor.   

• The start capacitor gives your AC unit’s motor a jolt of electricity every time the HVAC system activates.
• The run capacitor releases the excess energy required to keep blower motors moving. At this point, the start capacitor can stop sending electricity until the next cycle.

You may own an AC unit with a dual capacitor. This component performs both duties in one convenient package. When these parts break down, a technician can quickly replace them without disconnecting multiple components. 

When to Replace a Faulty AC Capacitor

What does an air conditioner capacitor do when it goes out? A bad capacitor can cause your entire HVAC system to stop working. Power blackouts, the age of your HVAC system, and internal damage to the wiring can short out the capacitor. As a result, the AC motor will stop blowing cold air.

Here are a few problems you may notice if your AC capacitor shorts or breaks:

• Your HVAC system never starts its cooling cycle
• Your HVAC system shuts off and will not turn back on
• Your air ducts are producing lukewarm air
• You can hear a humming noise coming from the AC unit
• Your monthly utility expenses go up
• You can see vapors coming from your outdoor unit
• Your AC unit produces a “burnt plastic” smell

Turn your AC unit off if you notice any of the above issues. Call a reliable HVAC repair technician to inspect your system immediately. They will help you replace your capacitor quickly and inspect the unit for any other complications that may be present (like mold growth or water damage).

Why Hire a Professional Technician for Capacitor Repairs?

Capacitors store high-voltage electrons and can be dangerous to replace without the right tools and equipment. You can sustain electrocution or burns if you attempt DIY repairs, so call an HVAC company for your capacitor repairs instead. Professional technicians can safely open your HVAC unit and repair it without incident.

You can also enjoy these additional benefits when hiring a reputable HVAC company:

• Access to superior-grade AC capacitor replacement parts
• Fast repairs, reducing your exposure to a hot or humid indoor environment
• Preventive care advice for a longer-lasting AC unit 

The Price of a New Capacitor

HVAC repair specialists typically charge around $200 for capacitor replacements. However, depending on the brand of your AC unit, parts and labor could cost as much as $400.

Why are these parts so expensive? AC capacitors are one of the most likely components to malfunction after years of use. Professionals must match the right capacitor for your system and install them with painstaking attention to detail for the best results.

New capacitors guarantee higher AC performance and longer life. Consequently, they help you save money in the future by avoiding frequent repairs.

Contact Gladiator Services Today

Is your HVAC system overdue for inspection or maintenance? At Gladiator Services, we can install and repair your AC capacitors at competitive rates. Our experienced technicians provide honest communication, fast results, and world-class customer service during every visit.

See how you can eliminate the hassles of air conditioning installation by partnering with us. We guarantee 100% customer satisfaction, no matter your HVAC request.

What does an air conditioner capacitor do? Learn more with HVAC professionals at Gladiator Services in Hillsdale, NJ. Schedule a consultation at 201-248-0952.