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Air conditioning capacitors play a vital role in air conditioning systems. To help consumers understand their functions, operational principles, and how to replace faulty capacitors at home correctly, follow this Mytour guide!
1. What is an Air Conditioning Capacitor?
An air conditioning capacitor, also known as a capacitor, capacitor block, or capacitor pack, serves to store electrical energy and provide power to start the compressor.
Therefore, it is cylindrical in shape and connected to the blocks through the start and common terminals of the air conditioner. Hence, the capacitor is positioned inside the outdoor unit of the air conditioner.
1.1. Functions
As compressor motors typically use asynchronous electric motors, single-phase squirrel-cage rotors, they require capacitors for startup assistance. Therefore, the main function of the capacitor is to aid in compressor startup, thereby contributing to the creation of a cool airflow throughout the room.
1.2. How does an air conditioner capacitor work?
An air conditioning capacitor consists of two or more conductive plates separated by a dielectric material. The capacitor operates on the principle of capacitance discharge, as follows:
When the capacitor is activated, the compressor motor starts. Gas in the outdoor unit converts to vapor and passes through the expansion valve. It then absorbs heat from the surroundings and cools the indoor unit.
The cooled refrigerant is then returned to the compressor. Under pressure differential, it transitions to liquid and is pumped into the outdoor unit. Meanwhile, the outdoor fan exhausts hot air from inside, ensuring efficient compressor operation.
1.3. Classifying air conditioning capacitors
Presently, the capacitor for the outdoor unit is typically a non-polarized oil capacitor and comes in 2 types:
- The 2-pin capacitor, also known as a single capacitor: usually has a simple structure and is installed in various Samsung, Panasonic, Sharp air conditioners... Common capacitance values for this type include 20 µF, 25 µF, 35 µF, 40 µF, 45 µF, and 50 µF.
- The 3-pin capacitor, also known as a dual capacitor: it assists in starting the compressor and fan inside the outdoor unit. This capacitor typically consists of 2 capacitors sharing a common pin and 1 pin connected to the block, 1 pin connected to the outdoor unit fan. Brands like LG, Casper, Daikin, Hitachi... often utilize this capacitor type. Common capacitance values include 2 µF, 15 µF, 30 µF, and 50 µF.
>>> Explore more: What is an air conditioner block? Common types of air conditioner blocks
2. Signs and causes of air conditioner capacitor failure
2.1. Signs
Identifying whether the air conditioner capacitor is faulty is challenging due to its deep installation within the outdoor unit. However, by observing a few signs below, you can determine if the capacitor is defective:
- Feeling warm air instead of cool when turning on the air conditioner.
Possible Causes:
- Operating the air conditioner beyond its capacity.
Continuous operation of the air conditioner can lead to increased internal temperature, affecting components within the outdoor and indoor units. Some habits that may cause overloading include setting the temperature too low for extended periods, running the air conditioner 24/7, or installing it in excessively hot areas.
- Unstable power supply.
Unstable power supply is also a factor that can lead to capacitor failure. This can result in unstable air conditioner operation and reduced cooling efficiency, significantly reducing the lifespan of the unit.
- Excessive ambient temperature
High ambient temperature or improper placement of the outdoor unit can cause capacitors to fail quickly. This also leads to inefficient compressor operation.
Replacing Capacitors Correctly at Home
To address capacitor failure, the only solution is to replace it with a new one. You can refer to the following technique for replacing capacitors in air conditioners at home:
Replacing a 2-pin Air Conditioner Capacitor
- Step 1: Identify the common, run, and start terminals on the compressor.
Replacing a 3-pin Air Conditioner Capacitor
- Step 1: Understand the markings on the 3-pin capacitor and follow these wiring instructions:
For Heat, connect the start terminal of the compressor; C, connect the run terminal of the compressor and the fan, then connect an additional power source from the bridge to it; for Fan, connect the start terminal of the fan.
- Step 2: Connect the common terminal of the fan and compressor to the remaining power source at the outdoor unit and the indoor unit.
4. Some Tips to Prevent Air Conditioner Capacitor Failure
To minimize capacitor failure during air conditioner usage, consider the following solutions:
- Regularly clean your air conditioner every 6 to 9 months if it's not used frequently. If you use it continuously, clean it every 3 to 4 months.
- Ensure proper installation of both the outdoor and indoor units to maximize cooling efficiency and prevent internal capacitor damage.
Read more: Does leaving the air conditioner on with doors open consume electricity?
Mytour has provided you with essential information on air conditioner capacitors and the correct technique for replacing them at home. We hope this article will provide you with useful insights for using this device. Thank you for reading!
