Capacitors by Treat’s Heating & Cooling
A capacitor is an electrical device that stores an electrical charge. They are used on fan motors and compressors in HVAC systems. There are two types of capacitors, run capacitors and start capacitors.
Run capacitors are used in furnaces, air conditioners and heat pumps. The capacitors are used with the fan motor and compressor. They maintain a constant voltage supply to the motor and increase at the time of startup.
Start capacitors are used in air conditioners and heat pumps. They provide the extra energy at startup for the compressor. A relay disconnects them from the compressor after the compressor starts.
When capacitors go bad, they either go out entirely or decline in strength. If a capacitor goes out completely, it may prevent the motor affiliated with it from running completely. If the compressor motor isn’t working, then the system won’t heat/cool.
Signs that your capacitor is going out may be a burning smell, clicking sound or your blower motor doesn’t turn on. It is important to have a professional check to see if your capacitor is bad because of the risk of electrical shock.
Call Treat’s Heating & Cooling 360.825.0800 we will send a professional technician to your home to diagnose your system.
The Maple Valley, WA capacitor experts at Treat’s Heating & Cooling offer high quality installation, repair, maintenance, and other heating and air conditioning services throughout Western Washington including Enumclaw, Buckley, Bonney Lake, Sumner, Puyallup, Tacoma, Auburn, Black Diamond, Covington, Maple Valley, Federal Way, Kent, & Seattle WA.