Ninety-three million miles away, at the center of the solar system, this perfect sphere of blazing hot plasma (5800 degrees Kelvin) beams relentless heatwave after heatwave to the innocent and perspiring residents of Phoenix. As the Arizona desert becomes super-heated with no end to summer in sight, a sizzling city pins its hopes on the diminutive electrical legend, CAPACI-TOR! Able to start air conditioning motors in a flash, CAPACI-TOR’s electrostatic field is essential in cooling homes and buildings in the Valley of the Sun.
No, “capacitor” is not a new Marvel character for summer release but rather your air conditioner’s electrical superhero. Electric motors within your air conditioner rely on capacitors to run smoothly. Did you know that over three quarters of all AC service problems and repairs are related to electrical issues?
Why Are Capacitors So Important to My Air Conditioner?
HVAC systems contain many electrical circuits, parts and components. If circuit boards can be considered the brains of the unit, then capacitors are the instigators. Capacitors regulate the “start-up” and “run” energy for the electric motors. Capacitors come in all shapes and sizes and are found in virtually all electric motors. In air conditioners, capacitors are small cylinders about the size of a Dixie cup used mainly to store and release electric charges not unlike a short-term battery. Capacitors regulate the motors in the compressor, blower and fan. If the capacitor fails, then the motor will soon stop working, and you may notice a clicking sound or a loud hum. Either noise is, unfortunately, not a good sign and you should call for service immediately.
What Can Cause A Capacitor to Fail?
The electrical system in your air conditioner is built to last. However, Arizona is a tough environment for your most important summertime appliance. Electrical thunderstorms, lightening, power failures and resulting power surges (when the power grid goes back on) can wreak havoc on capacitors. Like all the components in your air conditioner, capacitors can wear down over time. AC units operate six months or more in Phoenix year in, year out. All that heavy use and vibration takes a toll, especially on precision electronic parts.
What Should I Do If My Air Conditioner Becomes “In-Capacitated?”
Electrical problems and capacitor repairs are not for do-it-yourselfers. As capacitors fail, they often open up which, if not handled properly, can result in leakage of toxic materials. Our trained technicians will perform a detailed inspection and restore your capacitors and air conditioner to top form. Just like your car, regular maintenance on your HVAC unit will help prevent major problems from occurring. Why not call the experts at Cool Blew today!
