Keeping Your AC System Cleaner

Common Signs of a Bad AC Capacitor

by Yolanda White

Central air conditioning systems rely on a capacitor, which is very similar to a battery.  An AC capacitor plays a major role in the operation of your home's air conditioner, so if the capacitor is in bad condition, you will most likely notice. Luckily a bad AC capacitor can be replaced, and in most situations, replacing the capacitor will solve all your problems. A bad capacitor can create a number of problems, but an experienced HVAC technician will be able to diagnose the problem and provide a solution. Some f the common signs of a bad AC capacitor include:

Higher Than Normal Cooling Bill

The capacitor stores the energy to get your home's air conditioner running properly. When the capacitor is on its last legs, it won't have enough energy to power up your air conditioner normally. This means that your home's AC may cycle on and off in short spurts, which can lead to a much higher-than-normal cooling bill. If you have not changed your home's cooling habits but receive a very high cooling bill, it may be because the capacitor is about to fail. Don't ignore higher than normal cooling bills—they are often the sign of a problem with your home's air conditioning system.

Your Air Conditioner Is Old

If your air conditioner is more than a decade old, there is a good chance that the capacitor is on its last legs. It is not uncommon for capacitors to fail before the entire HVAC system needs to be replaced. An easy way to prevent major problems is to have your air conditioning unit inspected regularly. An HVAC inspection by a professional will identify problems and let you know if it is time for your to replace your capacitor. Replacing an old capacitor in advance can help prevent a lot of problems and issues.

AC Is Not Blowing Cold Air

When the capacitor fails, the fan that starts running the AC will not have enough power to start spinning. When this happens, the air conditioner will not be able to function properly, and cold air won't flow into your home. When this happens, it is always a good idea to have your home's air conditioner capacitor checked. An old, broken capacitor causes a lot of air conditioning problems, but at the same time, replacing it can restore your air conditioner''s proper function so it can cool down your house. 

If you're ready to replace your AC, contact companies like Vance Air & Heat.

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