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repair a bad aircon capacitor

How to Repair a Bad Aircon Capacitor in Singapore

With the right tools and guidance, it can be manageable to repair a bad aircon capacitor in Singapore. Aircons are essential for staying comfortable in Singapore’s hot and humid climate. However, like any machine, they can develop issues over time. One common problem is a faulty capacitor.

The capacitor plays a crucial role in starting and running the aircon’s compressor and fan. If it goes bad, the unit can fail to cool properly or not work at all. This article will guide you through repairing a bad aircon capacitor in a simple and clear manner.

Signs of a Faulty Aircon Capacitor

Before repairing a bad aircon capacitor in Singapore, it is important to identify the symptoms of a bad capacitor. You can only treat a fault if you know what is actually wrong. Here are some common signs of a bad aircon capacitor:

  1. The aircon does not start.
  2. The aircon runs intermittently or shuts down unexpectedly.
  3. You hear a clicking sound when the unit is turned on.
  4. The fan or compressor fails to work.
  5. The unit struggles to cool effectively.

How to Repair a Bad Aircon Capacitor in Singapore?

Bad aircon capacitor repairing becomes straightforward once you follow the guidance provided by LS Aircon Servicing Singapore. Moreover, they also provide aircon installation, aircon repair, and aircon relocation services in Singapore. Let’s go through the step-by-step process:

Tools You Will Need

To repair a bad aircon capacitor, you will need the following tools:

  • Screwdriver
  • Insulated gloves
  • Multimeter
  • Replacement capacitor

Below are the steps that elaborate on the use of these tools to repair a bad aircon capacitor.

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Safety should always come first. Turn off the power to the aircon at the circuit breaker to avoid any electrical hazards. Moreover, you should verify that the unit is completely powered off before proceeding.

how to repair a bad aircon capacitor

Step 2: Access the Capacitor

Afterward, you need to find the capacitor. It is usually housed in the outdoor unit of the aircon. Remove the screws on the panel to access the capacitor. Keep the screws in a safe place to avoid losing them.

Step 3: Discharge the Capacitor

Capacitors store electrical energy even when the unit is off. To discharge it, use an insulated screwdriver to bridge the terminals of the capacitor. This step is essential to prevent shocks during the repair process.

Step 4: Inspect the Capacitor

Look for visible signs of damage. A faulty capacitor can have a bulging top, leakage, or burn marks. If you notice any of these signs, it is likely the capacitor is damaged and needs replacement.

Step 5: Test the Capacitor

Use a multimeter to test the capacitor. Set the multimeter to the capacitance testing mode and connect its leads to the capacitor terminals. Compare the reading to the specifications printed on the capacitor. If the reading is significantly lower, the capacitor is faulty.

Step 6: Replace the Capacitor

When you make sure that the capacitor is faulty, remove the damaged capacitor by disconnecting the wires. Take note and possibly a snap of the wire connections and their placement to ensure proper reconnection later. Get a new capacitor of the same specifications and install it by connecting the wires in the correct order. Connect it in place using screws or brackets.

Step 7: Reassemble the Unit

When you repair a bad aircon capacitor, reassemble the aircon unit. Ensure all screws are tightened and the panel is properly closed.

fix a bad aircon capacitor

Step 8: Restore Power

Turn the power on at the circuit breaker. Test the aircon to see if it functions correctly. If it starts smoothly and cools effectively, you have successfully resolved the issue.

When to LS Aircon Servicing Singapore?

While replacing a capacitor is a straightforward process, it may not always be suitable for everyone. If you are unsure about handling electrical components, it is best to call a professional technician like LS Aircon Servicing Singapore. They have the expertise to diagnose and fix the problem safely.

Conclusion

It is a manageable DIY task to repair a bad aircon capacitor in Singapore by following the above simple steps. For a successful process, you need to Identify the issue early, use the right tools, and prioritize safety.

However, if the task feels beyond your doable capacity or you lack time to complete it, do not hesitate to seek help from a professional. Regular maintenance and care are also a fruitful way to keep your aircon running efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

A good aircon capacitor will have voltage readings within the described limit. Any value that is outside this range, indicates that the aircon capacitor is faulty. Moreover, you can also see the signs of melting or bulging on the surface of a faulty capacitor.
In the single-phase supply, you need a capacitor to start the machines and a capacitor that keeps the power factor in check during the operation of the motor. The running capacitor is generally located near the compressor or the fan motor. It has a cylindrical shape and has wires attached to it.
A bad capacitor forces the motor to work harder than normal. Therefore, it results in overheating and a burning smell. However, you may not feel the electrical odor because the capacitor is generally placed outside. If your aircon isn't working, look at the condenser unit to ensure the motor isn't overheating.