Is your air conditioner not cooling like it used to?
Maybe it’s making strange noises, struggling to start, or not turning on at all. If that’s the case, two of the most common (and often misunderstood) culprits could be the capacitor or the contactor.
But what do these parts actually do, and how do you know which one is to blame?
Let’s take a closer look.
What Does A Capacitor Do?
Think of the capacitor as the “starter” and “booster” for your AC’s motors. It stores and releases electricity to help kick-start the compressor and fan motors and helps them keep running smoothly.
There are typically two types
- Start capacitors give your motor the initial jolt of energy
- Run capacitors keep things moving efficiently once they’re running
Signs your capacitor might be bad include
- A loud click followed by a hum when the AC tries to start
- The fan or compressor won’t start at all
- A motor that hums but doesn’t spin
Capacitors don’t last forever, and when one fails, your system may either struggle to start or shut down altogether. The good news is that they’re usually an affordable fix.
What Does A Contactor Do?
The contactor works like a switch, controlling the flow of electricity from your thermostat to the AC’s compressor and outdoor fan. When your thermostat says it’s time to cool, the contactor closes the circuit and allows power to flow.
If the contactor is failing, you might notice:
- The compressor or fan doesn’t turn on
- A loud buzzing or humming from your outdoor unit
- Burn marks or pitting on the contactor’s surface
A faulty contactor can stop your AC from turning on or cause it to stay on when it shouldn’t.
Which One’s The Real Problem?
Unless you’re a trained HVAC technician, it can be tough to tell which part is acting up. Both issues can cause your AC to behave in similar ways. That’s why it’s important to have a professional inspect your system before replacing anything.
Don’t Play The Guessing Game, Call The Professionals
Capacitors and contactors are small but mighty parts of your AC system. When either one fails, it can leave you sweating literally. If your AC is making weird sounds or not cooling properly, it’s time to get it checked.
Let the experts at Service Champions diagnose the issue and get your AC running smoothly again. We’re here to help keep your home cool, comfortable, and efficient.
