Ever turned on your AC on a hot Reno day only to find… nothing? No cool air, just silence or maybe a weird humming noise? That could be your capacitor calling it quits.
So, what is a capacitor, and why does it matter so much?
Your air conditioner’s capacitor is a small but powerful part that gives your system the energy boost it needs to start up. Think of it like a battery that kicks things into gear. Without it, your AC fan motor or compressor simply won’t turn on, which means no cold air for you.
How can you tell if the capacitor is bad?
Here are a few red flags to watch out for:
- Your AC isn’t blowing cold air
- You hear a humming noise from the outdoor unit
- Your unit won’t turn on, or randomly shuts off
- You smell something burning
- Your energy bills are suddenly higher
- Your system is old and struggling
Any of those sound familiar? A failing capacitor can easily cause these issues and make your AC work harder, which means higher energy costs and even bigger repair bills if it’s ignored.
What’s causing it to go bad in the first place?
Capacitors wear out over time, especially in extreme temperatures like we get here in Reno. Overuse, power surges, and just plain age can all contribute. Most capacitors last around 10–20 years, but that depends on how well your system is maintained.
Can your AC still run with a bad capacitor?
Not for long. It might hum, buzz, or even start up a few times. But eventually, it’ll stop working altogether. And running your system with a bad capacitor can damage other components, which means even costlier repairs.
What should you do if you think the capacitor’s bad?
Don’t try to fix it yourself. Capacitors store electricity even when the power is off, and they can be dangerous to handle. Your safest bet is to call a licensed HVAC technician to check it out. A quick inspection and capacitor replacement could get your AC running like new again.
Time to stop sweating it
If your AC is showing signs of capacitor trouble, don’t wait. Sierra Air Inc. is here to help with fast, friendly service across Reno and the surrounding areas.
Call Sierra Air Inc. today for expert AC repair and reliable capacitor replacement. We’ll keep your cool air flowing, no matter how hot it gets outside.
