Part of good AC maintenance is getting a thorough inspection and tune-up. The last thing you want to deal with after a fun summer day at Zoo Boise is to come home to a sweltering house. An AC capacitor inspection is essential to the tune-up process and helps keep your AC running smoothly.
AC Tune-Up Must: Why Capacitor Checks Are Key
The air conditioner capacitor plays a key role in starting up the unit and ensuring it runs effectively. It’s similar to the spark plugs in your car. Your car won’t start without spark plugs, and your AC won’t start without the capacitor.
This crucial part of the AC system gives the motor inside your AC the jolt of energy it needs to start while regulating the power supply. Testing the AC capacitor function is an important part of AC maintenance.
The AC Capacitor: Unsung Hero of Your Cooling System
Most air conditioner capacitors are “dual run.” Think of a dual-run capacitor as a battery that stores and releases electrical energy to start and keep the AC motor running. The start capacitor produces a powerful jolt of energy to start the motor, while the run capacitor provides a steady flow of power.
The AC capacitor is designed to start the AC quickly and keep it running so the system continues producing cool air on those hot Boise summer days. That’s why testing the AC capacitor regularly is crucial.
Signs Your AC Capacitor May Be Failing
Over time, your air conditioner’s capacitor may start to fail, and replacing the AC capacitor might be required. Here are some capacitor failure signs to look for:
- Odd noises like humming, buzzing, clicking, or hissing sounds could mean the capacitor is weakening. These sounds often occur when your AC’s compressor struggles to start because of a failing capacitor.
- You may notice that the AC takes longer to turn on or doesn’t turn on at all. Both of these are potential symptoms of a failing capacitor.
- Your AC might shut off randomly.
- Warm air is blowing from the vents.
- It may seem like your AC is “sluggish” whenever it’s running. This is one of the most common symptoms of a failing capacitor.
The Risks of a Faulty Capacitor
A faulty capacitor can pose several risks, including:
- Higher energy bills: Damaged capacitors make your AC compressor work harder, resulting in higher monthly energy costs.
- Random shut-off: A faulty capacitor can’t deliver a constant charge to the AC unit, causing it to shut off at random intervals.
- Burning smells: An odd burning smell may indicate that the faulty capacitor has caused the motor to overheat.
- No cold air: A faulty capacitor can prevent your AC system from producing cool air.
- Damage: In some cases, a faulty capacitor can cause various components to fail, leading to costly repairs or a total system replacement.
Why Professional Capacitor Inspection Is Key
A capacitor inspection performed by trained, experienced professionals is key to protecting your investment, helping to maintain your warranty coverage, and making sure your AC continues to run efficiently. This part of your AC system inspection allows the technician to identify any signs of wear or damage to your AC that you might not be aware of.
The technicians at Express use specialized tools to make it easier to pinpoint subtle signs of damage to the capacitor and the AC. Working with electrical components can be dangerous, so professionals should always inspect the capacitor to make sure it’s safely discharged before testing to accurately assess its condition.
The Role of Capacitor Inspection in AC Tune-Ups
Including a capacitor inspection in an AC tune-up helps prevent problems from becoming more advanced. Identifying faulty capacitors and replacing them as soon as possible may save you money on expensive repairs later. This part of the AC tune-up and inspection also helps keep your system running smoothly during the hot summer months.
AC capacitors can wear out and fail over time. We recommend inspecting the capacitor and the rest of your system at least every two years.
Benefits of Regular AC Maintenance
There are plenty of benefits of getting regular AC maintenance, such as:
- Better energy efficiency and lower energy bills
- A more powerful, consistently running system
- Reliability and peace of mind
- Less need for expensive repairs or a possible system replacement
- Maintaining your warranty coverage
- Improved indoor air quality
- Extends the lifespan of your system
- You’ll spot issues early so they can be repaired fast
Join our Express VIP Club and receive bi-annual HVAC system tune-ups, priority scheduling, same-day appointments, and more,
Contact Express for an AC Tune-up and Capacitor Inspection
If you need a tune-up, including an AC capacitor inspection, the experts at Express Plumbing, Heating, & Air can help. We’ll fully assess your system and give you tips to help keep your AC running as efficiently as possible. If you need a new AC, we offer a range of financing options to suit your budget. When you’re ready to schedule an appointment for an AC tune-up, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I inspect the capacitor myself, or do I need to call an HVAC technician?
You need the proper tools and knowledge to safely test capacitors. This high-voltage component can cause serious injury. We recommend contacting an experienced HVAC technician with the expertise and equipment to do the job.
Can a bad capacitor lead to other problems with my AC unit?
Yes. A bad capacitor can lead to more serious problems with your AC. This vital component is required for everything else to run smoothly. If you have a bad capacitor, your AC might not turn on right away, may turn on and off intermittently, or it could stop working altogether.
