We all love A/C on a hot summer day, but most of us are in the dark when it comes to the tiny components making it happen.
You’ve probably heard about this elusive thingamajig called a ‘capacitor,’ but what in the world is it?
The basics
To understand the A/C capacitor, first, we need a crash course in A/C 101. Your air conditioning unit consists of three main components – the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator. The compressor pumps the refrigerant through the air conditioner; the condenser cools this refrigerant. It turns it into a liquid, and the evaporator turns this liquid back into a gas, absorbing the heat from your home and, in turn, producing cool air.
The capacitor
The capacitor is situated within the compressor. Its job is to give the extra push needed to get the system up and running. More specifically, a capacitor is an electronic component that stores and releases electrical energy. In an air conditioning system, it provides the necessary starting torque for the motor and helps maintain a steady supply of power while the system is running.
If the capacitor isn’t functioning correctly, your air conditioner will struggle to produce cool air, leaving your home uncomfortably warm.
Is yours working optimally?
To determine if your A/C capacitor is malfunctioning, we look for physical signs such as cracks, bulges, leaks, or loose or corroded terminals. A multimeter set to “capacitance” mode indicates whether the capacitor is working correctly.
At Sun Heating & Cooling, we’re experts in A/C repair, which includes A/C capacitor repair. We’ve got the right equipment and experience to make sure your A/C unit is functioning perfectly and safely.
Contact us today to schedule service, or give us a call: (248) 986-1506
