Capacitors (66 items found)

Capacitors are essential electrical components of everything from air conditioners to refrigerators. When one fails in your home, you can tackle the repair work yourself with HVAC capacitor and other capacitor parts from brands like Perfect Aire, available at Ace Hardware online and in stores.

What Does a Capacitor Do?

Like wiring, fuses, circuit breakers and panels, capacitors are important electrical components that play a specific role. In a circuit, a capacitor collects charged particles along two plates and stores energy for a short period of time. When an appliance or piece of equipment needs a large burst of energy, the capacitor then releases its stores into the circuit. Unlike batteries, capacitors charge up very quickly and can emit stored energy rapidly to supply a lot of power on demand.

The Importance of an Air Conditioner Capacitor

Often people shopping for capacitors are in need of air conditioner parts for DIY repairs. Air conditioners typically have two capacitors: the start capacitor and the run capacitor. The start AC capacitor provides a large burst of energy that allows the motor in an air conditioner to switch on, so that the cooling process can begin. As the air conditioner operates, the run air conditioner capacitor continuously collects and emits energy to help the motor continue to move. When a start HVAC capacitor fails, an air conditioner may fail to start or run without producing cold air. Problems with a run capacitor can cause air conditioners to hum while they operate, shut down randomly during operation or work less efficiently.

How to Choose an AC Capacitor

When shopping for AC capacitors, keep the following features and specifications in mind:

• Microfarad rating: Represented in MFD units, the microfarad rating for an AC capacitor tells you how much energy it can store. The higher the number is, the less energy storage potential a particular capacitor has. Check the rating of your existing HVAC capacitor to choose the right option.
• Voltage: Measured in volts, voltage indicates how much electrical force can move through the capacitor. You should typically choose an air conditioner capacitor replacement that has the same voltage or a higher voltage for best results.
• Terminals: Capacitors come equipped with different types of terminals for making connections within an air conditioner. Select a replacement HVAC capacitor with the same type of terminals as your existing part.
• Shape: You can find both oval and round capacitors. In most cases, an air conditioner can use either shape, but confirm this with the technical information included with your air conditioner before purchasing a replacement part.

Shop for AC Capacitors Near You at Ace Hardware

Whether you need an AC capacitor or a capacitor for an appliance in your home, Ace has the replacement parts necessary to get the job done. Bring your damaged or old air conditioner capacitor to your neighborhood store to get help selecting the right replacement. Our knowledgeable associates can also provide advice on what other tools, materials and safety equipment are required for your project. If you already know which capacitor you need, find it quickly online anytime by using the filter options on the left side of the page. You can arrange to pick up your order at your local Ace store or to have it shipped to your home.