AC Capacitor Symptoms You Should Know (Before It’s Too Hot to Handle)

So, here’s the deal: your AC unit has a little hidden hero working tirelessly behind the scenes. Yep, we’re talking about the AC capacitor. If you’ve never heard of this guy, don’t feel bad, this stuff can be a little…droll (that’s why it’s best to leave it to the experts who LOVE this kind of stuff). Anyway, the AC Capacitor is this small but mighty part that helps your AC unit fire up–But when it’s on its last legs, it sends out some pretty clear SOS signals—if you know what ac capacitor symptoms to look for. Not paying attention? You might just find yourself staring down the barrel of a sizzling hot day with an AC unit that’s dead in the water. Not the vibe, right?

Join Igloo AC and let’s walk through some telltale signs that your AC capacitor might be struggling, because nobody has time for surprise heatwaves.

AC Capacitor Symptoms You Should Look For

The AC Won’t Turn On (Cue the Dramatic Music)

Picture this nightmare scenario if you will: it’s hot, you hit the switch, and…nothing. Silence. No cooling gusts. No humming. Nada. When your AC unit won’t even try to turn on, a blown capacitor is often the culprit. Capacitors give your AC that oh-so-needed initial power boost to start running. So, when they’re down, your unit might feel like a useless box with no will go on.

How to tell if it’s really one of the AC capacitor symptoms to look out for? Check your breaker (just in case), and then call up your favorite AC pros, like Igloo AC, for a quick inspection. They’ll take one look, give it a zap of life (or install a new capacitor), and you’ll be back in business.

Your AC is Making a Clicking Sound, But Nothing’s Happening

Another one of the AC capacitor symptoms to watch out for: So, maybe your AC isn’t quite at the “let’s give up all together” point, and it’s making some effort (better than us on certain days)— say there’s a clicking sound when you try to turn it on. But instead of blowing chilly air, it just clicks…then clicks again…then, yep, clicks some more. This clicking is actually a cry for help. It’s the motor trying to start, but the capacitor just doesn’t have the juice to give it that extra push.

This is a pretty clear sign that it’s time to bring in a replacement. And, if you’re in Hawaii, who better to turn to than Igloo AC? Our pros know how to keep the island cool and are masters of diagnosing capacitor issues.

Don’t Ignore the AC Capacitor Signs! (And Keep Igloo AC in Your Contacts)

If you’re experiencing any of these AC capacitor symptoms, your AC unit’s capacitor is waving a red flag. The good news? This is a fix that’s usually straightforward and fast—just a quick swap, and your AC will be back to its cooling self in no time.

The next time your AC is acting up, remember these signs and give Igloo AC a call.