{"id":19649,"date":"2025-07-02T13:15:20","date_gmt":"2025-07-02T20:15:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/b\/?p=19649"},"modified":"2026-07-14T12:54:39","modified_gmt":"2026-07-14T19:54:39","slug":"how-to-test-and-replace-a-central-ac-capacitor","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/b\/how-to-test-and-replace-a-central-ac-capacitor\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Test and Replace a Central AC Capacitor"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Is your AC not starting or cooling? It might be the capacitor. Learn how to test and replace a central AC capacitor with this DIY guide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":19685,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_aviaLayoutBuilderCleanData":"[av_image src='https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/b\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/20250701_1101_Cozy-Utility-Closet_simple_compose_01jz380t8ef6taqrge05hhegv1-1500x630.png' attachment='19685' attachment_size='featured_large' copyright='' caption='' styling='' align='center' font_size='' overlay_opacity='0.4' overlay_color='#000000' overlay_text_color='#ffffff' animation='no-animation' hover='' appearance='' link='' target='' title_attr='' alt_attr='' lazy_loading='disabled' id='' custom_class='' av_element_hidden_in_editor='0' av_uid='av-mcmebjap' admin_preview_bg=''][\/av_image]\r\n\r\n[av_textblock size='' av-medium-font-size='' av-small-font-size='' av-mini-font-size='' font_color='' color='' id='' custom_class='' av_uid='av-mckvt8fj' admin_preview_bg='']\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your central air conditioning system is having trouble starting up, struggling to cool the house, or making strange buzzing noises, the culprit could be the capacitor. Luckily, testing and replacing a central AC capacitor is a straightforward DIY job that many homeowners can handle safely with the right tools and precautions.<\/span>\n\nWe recommend consulting your manufacturer's documentation or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/repair-help\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> contact us<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with any questions.<\/span><\/em>\r\n\r\n[lwptoc numeration=\"none\"]\r\n<p style=\"font-size:14.5px;margin:14px 0;font-family:system-ui,-apple-system,sans-serif\"><a href=\"#app-safety-notes\">Full safety notes below<\/a><\/p>\n\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is a Central AC Capacitor?<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A capacitor is a small, cylindrical or oval-shaped component located in the outdoor condenser unit. It stores and releases energy to help start and run motors, usually the compressor and the fan.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are two main types of capacitors found in central AC units:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start Capacitor: Delivers a high-voltage boost to start the compressor.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Run Capacitor: Provides continuous voltage to keep the compressor and fan motor running smoothly.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many systems use a dual-run capacitor, which powers both the fan and compressor in one housing, with three labeled terminals: C (Common), FAN, and HERM (compressor).<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signs of a Failing AC Capacitor<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before jumping into testing or replacing the capacitor, look for these common signs that it\u2019s failing or has already failed:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AC won\u2019t start or struggles to start<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Humming noise from the condenser unit<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fan starts late or not at all<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Compressor cuts in and out<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">AC blows warm air<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">System trips the breaker<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bulging or leaking capacitor<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your system shows any of these symptoms, it\u2019s a good idea to test the capacitor before replacing other components.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety First<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before performing any testing or repairs, shut off power to the AC unit at the main circuit breaker. Capacitors can hold a dangerous electrical charge even after power is off, so proper safety steps are critical. You\u2019ll also want to wear safety glasses, insulated gloves and rubber-soled shoes.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tools and Materials You\u2019ll Need<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gather these items before starting the job:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multimeter with capacitance (\u00b5F) setting<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insulated screwdriver<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nut driver or socket set<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Needle-nose pliers or wire cutters<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replacement capacitor\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Permanent marker or masking tape for labeling wires<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Electrical tape (optional)<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shut Off Power to the AC Unit<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Go to your breaker box and switch off the circuit controlling your air conditioner.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For added safety, pull the disconnect located outside near the condenser unit.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a non-contact voltage tester to double-check that no power is flowing to the unit.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always verify power is completely off before opening the unit.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Access the Capacitor<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a nut driver or screwdriver to remove the side panel on the condenser unit. This usually involves a few screws along the top and side.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Locate the capacitor, it's usually mounted to the side of the housing and shaped like a silver can (round or oval).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before touching it, take a photo of the wire connections or label them with tape and a marker. You\u2019ll need to reattach them in the exact same order.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 3: Discharge the Capacitor<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even with power off, capacitors can retain a dangerous charge. You must safely discharge it before removing or testing it.<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take an insulated screwdriver and place the blade across the terminals.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Touch one terminal with the tip and then rotate the screwdriver to bridge it to the next.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Repeat for all terminal combinations (C to FAN, C to HERM).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may see a small spark; that\u2019s normal.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discharging the capacitor is essential for your safety.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 4: Remove the Capacitor<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use needle-nose pliers to carefully pull the wire terminals off the capacitor tabs. Twist gently to loosen tight connectors.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remove the mounting strap or bracket and slide the capacitor out.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Examine the capacitor for physical damage, including bulging top or sides, oil or fluid leaking, and burn marks. Any of these signs confirm that it needs to be replaced.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Test the Capacitor with a Multimeter<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set your multimeter to the capacitance setting (\u00b5F).<\/span>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Connect one probe to the C terminal, and the other to the FAN terminal.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Read the value and compare it to the manufacturer\u2019s label on the capacitor.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Repeat for C to HERM.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The readings should be within \u00b110% of the labeled value. If either reading is outside this range or if the multimeter shows OL (open loop), the capacitor is faulty and needs replacement.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Install the New Capacitor<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Position the new capacitor in the bracket or mount and secure it with screws or clips.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reattach the wires using your photo or labeled tape as a guide.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure terminals are pushed on snugly and no wires are loose.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use electrical tape to bundle and organize wires if necessary.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check that no wires are touching the metal housing or fan blades.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Close the Unit and Restore Power<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replace the side panel and tighten all screws.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turn the circuit breaker and disconnect switch back on.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set your thermostat to \u201cCool\u201d and lower the temperature to trigger the AC.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let the system run for 10\u201315 minutes and observe for any problems. If everything runs smoothly, your new capacitor is doing its job.<\/span>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extra Tips for Success<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always keep an extra capacitor on hand: They\u2019re inexpensive and common failure points.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Label wires before removal to avoid confusion during reinstallation.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep the work area dry to avoid slips and electrical hazards.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Store the old capacitor safely until it can be properly disposed of at an electronics recycling center.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where To Find Us\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/b\/how-to-find-your-appliances-model-number\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> model number<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> AppliancePartsPros.com<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.appliancepartspros.com\/repair-help\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> repair help section<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@appliancepartspros\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> YouTube videos<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to help you troubleshoot.<\/span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/appliancepartspros\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Facebook<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/instagram.com\/appliancepartspros?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instagram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/applpartspros\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Twitter<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. We\u2019re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!<\/span>\n\n<em><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model.\n\n<div id=\"app-safety-notes\" style=\"border:1px solid #E6E6E6;border-radius:8px;overflow:hidden;margin:22px 0;font-family:system-ui,-apple-system,sans-serif\"><div style=\"background:#1C437C;color:#fff;padding:9px 16px;font-weight:700;font-size:15px\">\u26a1&nbsp;Electrical safety \u2014 before you start<\/div><ul style=\"margin:0;padding:14px 20px 14px 38px;font-size:15px;line-height:1.6;color:#1A1A1A;background:#fff\"><li style=\"margin:6px 0\"><b>Disconnect power<\/b> before you start \u2014 unplug it or switch off the breaker, and <b>confirm it's dead<\/b>.<\/li><li style=\"margin:6px 0\">Follow your <b>local electrical code<\/b>.<\/li><li style=\"margin:6px 0\">Anything involving <b>household wiring, outlets, or the breaker panel<\/b> itself is <b>licensed-electrician territory<\/b>.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n[\/av_textblock]\r\n\r\n[av_blog blog_type='posts' categories='16' link='category' blog_style='blog-grid' content_length='content' contents='title_read_more' date_filter='' date_filter_start='' date_filter_end='' date_filter_format='yy\/mm\/dd' offset='0' conditional='' bloglist_width='' columns='3' preview_mode='auto' image_size='portfolio' items='3' paginate='yes' lazy_loading='disabled' alb_description='' id='' custom_class='' av_uid='av-mcmea2h7']\r\n\r\n[av_social_share title='Share this entry' buttons='' share_facebook='' share_twitter='' share_whatsapp='' share_pinterest='' share_reddit='' share_linkedin='' share_tumblr='' share_vk='' share_mail='' share_yelp='' yelp_link='https:\/\/www.yelp.com' style='' av-desktop-hide='' av-medium-hide='' av-small-hide='' av-mini-hide='' alb_description='' id='' custom_class='' av_uid='av-r345q9']\r\n\r\n","_aviaLayoutBuilder_active":"active","footnotes":""},"categories":[16,84],"tags":[12630,12625,12626,12622,12241,12624,12623,12628,12627,12629],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\r\n<title>How to Test and Replace a Central AC Capacitor<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is your AC not starting or cooling? 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