Electrical system problems are one of the most common reasons we receive AC repair calls. Your cooling system relies on a network of components, circuits, and connections working together, and even a small failure can bring the whole system down. One of the most important electrical components in your AC is the capacitor.
What Does a Capacitor Do?
Capacitors are small cylindrical components that store energy in an electrostatic field. Think of them as short-term batteries for your AC’s motors. There are two types: the start capacitor, which sends an initial jolt to get a motor running, and the run capacitor, which sends a steady series of jolts to keep it running. Capacitors serve three motors in your system: the compressor, the blower motor, and the outdoor fan.
What Happens When a Capacitor Fails?
Capacitors can fail due to power surges or simply wearing out over time. As one begins to fail, you’ll often hear a clicking sound from inside the cabinet. When a run capacitor dies, the motor it powers will still attempt to run but will produce a humming sound instead of its normal operating noise. Don’t ignore this. A failing capacitor left unaddressed can cause the motor to burn out entirely, requiring a full motor replacement rather than a simple capacitor swap.
If you notice clicking or humming from your AC system, contact Fresh Air Cooling and Heating today to schedule professional air conditioner repairs in Richmond, TX.
