what is a capacitor for ac unit

An AC capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy and provides the initial jolt of electricity that an air conditioners motors need to run successfully. It is a component within the outdoor condensing unit of an air conditioner or heat pump that delivers power to the motor driving the air conditioning system. The capacitor consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material, and it stores energy in the form of an electrostatic field. Once the air conditioner motor reaches proper operating speed, the capacitor limits excess power and supplies a steady amount for the duration of the cooling cycle. Capacitors are high-voltage devices that could seriously harm you because they are connected to wiring inside your air conditioning system which is connected to your home’s electrical grid. Therefore, it is not recommended to change your AC capacitor yourself. Failed capacitors are a common problem because it is a strenuous job, and they can wear out over time or fail when extremely hot temperatures cause the device to overheat, or power surges or lightning strikes can also damage the capacitor. Signs that your AC’s capacitor is not working properly include inconsistent performance, the AC not cooling, or the system not turning on.