A/c capacitor problems??

Question

what makes the start/run capacitor go bad? I have replaced mine 3 times in the last 3 months. Something must be causing this. the repair man where I bought the cap. from said he don't know. Maybe someone here can help.

Answer 1

A service call from an ac tech might be in order here. The capacitor should not be replaced that quickly. The other post has a good thought in that the compressor may be drawing too many amps on startup and is failing.

Answer 2

The potential relay is sticking,it's the wrong size,it's wired wrong,or there is a voltage problem.Check them all.It's one of the four.Good luck.

Answer 3

GO TO A/C SUPPLY STORE, AND BUY A HARD- START KICK. TURN OFF POWER ON UNIT. AND DISCHARGE CAPACITOR, WITH A SCREWDRIVER, BY TOUCHING TWO OF THE TERMENILS AT THE SAME TIME, DO THIS TO ALL THREE. OR YOU WILL GET A GOOD JOLT.  HAVE IT INSTALLED ON THE START CAPACITOR ONE WIRE ON COMPRESSOR SIDE OF CLIP, THE OTHER WIRE ON COMMON SIDE OF CLIP. (ON THE CAPACITOR). ALSO, MAKE SURE YOU BUY THE SAME CAPACITOR WITH THE SAME SPECS. GOOD LUCK.  

Answer 4

clean your condenser coil also get a 440 cap if your compressor is drawing too many amps its on its way out

Answer 5

Hi, is it the run or the start capacitor that's failing ?

Make sure the condenser is clean (both front and back). And that the indoor air filter is clean. Check all connections are tight. If the compressor has only one capacitor and no start relay or cap its a PSC (permanant split capacitor) starting system. This way of starting a compressor relies heavily on the gas pressure having equalised as the compressor does not have a great deal of starting torque to overcome any pressure imbalance. Ideally the compressor should remain off for at least 5 mins between cycles. I've fitted a delay timer before  to get round these issues.

Good Luck

Answer 6

you may need to clean the coil, or get an adjustment- something may be loose or not working properly, and in turn, causing the capacitor to go bad so quickly.  

I would recommend calling a tech, since you did try three times and probably don't want to spend any more unnecessary money.  If you are in the NJ area, try Browns Heating & Cooling.  They are affordable and reliable.