I keep a spare cap on hand for each of my two units (they are different) and spare contactor as well (they use the same thing in this case). Can buy for 10-20 bucks each at the most. Got my last batch at Home Depot (ordered online, they don't stock shit). I change the contactors preventatively as once those damn things weld shut you risk burning up a compressor and they seem to be a wear item so change it every few years. I also replaced the cap preventatively too but less critical as that will just not start if it fails.
Home AC out..what can I do
- Thread starter RenegadeT
- Start date
- Joined
- Mar 16, 2005
- Location
- Archer Lodge
Contractors generally weld together due too low voltage, low voltage on coil pull in, so they bounce and arc, then the surface is higher resistance which is even more effected by low voltage and heats up the tips, then get hot enough to melt together.
See it all the time in electric forklifts, and don't think for a second your household power doesn't fluctuate during the day, especially high demand days like today.
Regular change out still isn't a bad idea, cheaper than a compressor, and the pull in coils can get weak over time as well
So the thing about electrolytic capacitors is they actually have a shelf life. If you buy a spare today when you replace one six or eight years from now it may or may not be good anymore. In my industry we recommend that you should "reform" a dormant capacitor annually to ensure it will still work when you need it. Essentially you charge it with DC on a current-restrained source. See link: http://www.vcomp.co.uk/tech_tips/reform_caps/reform_caps.htm