Signs of a Bad Capacitor
The AC hums but the fan sits still. You go outside and the top of the metal box feels hot. That is usually a bad capacitor. If you look through the fan grate and see the fan blades struggling to turn, shut the power off immediately. Letting it hum will burn out your compressor.
What Does a Capacitor Actually Do?
The capacitor gives your compressor and fan motor the jolt of electricity they need to start. Think of it like a car battery. When it goes bad, the system simply cannot start up. A failing capacitor will make your system work harder and pull more electricity.
Why Do Capacitors Fail?
Heat kills capacitors. Ohio River Valley humidity makes our systems work hard all summer. Add the cottonwood fluff that blankets Greater Cincinnati every May and June, and your outdoor coils get clogged fast. A clogged coil makes the unit overheat. If you see a sticky fluid leaking from the silver cylinder inside the unit, it is dead. Do not try to touch it. Capacitors hold a nasty electrical charge even when the power is completely off.
Fixing the Problem
We charge a simple $89 diagnostic fee to come out and test your system. We also stick strictly to a Repairs First policy. We will replace the blown capacitor, clean the cottonwood off your coil, and get your house cooling again instead of trying to sell you a whole new air conditioner.