Buzzing Condenser - bad Capacitor?

[oneatlguy]

I have a Rudd AC unit (external) that seems to be working fine from a cooling stand point, but when the compressor turns on an additional loud buzz can be heard. As soom as the compressor turns off the buzz stops.

It appears to be coming from a thing that looks like a cut off can of shaving cream with wires connected - labled capacitor.

Is this something I can repair myself or call a contractor? I have turned off the ac just to prevent damange.

Hell, I cannot find out what the capacitor even does! The unit is only 4-5 years old.

Thanks for any advice.

Chuck

[imeduc]

Check the contactor on the unit that is what will make a buzz like when the tstat turns it on to make the compressor run. bugs ants can get into the points on it its coil can be going out. A cap just kicks up the power to help the compressor and fan run . They just blow or stop and dont work

My mistakes dont define me they inform me.

[HayZee518]

The capacitor offsets the phase angle of one of the windings in a motor enabling it to start or run. When ANY motor starts it presents a dead short to the electrical circuit until it starts to rotate, then current drops down to normal running current. A capacitor can be tested by two means. Very carefully remove the wires off it and short out the two terminals with an insulated screwdriver. If it is good there will be an arc and a loud snap. Using a meter on the highest resistane setting touch the probes to the cap terminals. If it is good, the needle will go upscale and then downscale. Reverse the leads and do it again. Same thing should happen - go upscale and then downscale. A cap that the needle goes up and stays is shorted.
When you replace the cap make sure you get one of the same or higher voltage rating - the capacitance in microfarads should be the same.

[lonestarheir]

I bet that it is the contactor is pitted and burned causing it to "chatter". If you do not feel comfortable working with high voltage electrical call a local HVAC contractor and they should be able to solve this small problem.


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Brandon
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