What Are The Symptoms of a Bad AC Capacitator?

A capacitator stores energy to start your air conditioner’s motor. Symptoms of a bad capacitator may be as subtle as a humming sound or as obvious as your air conditioner not running at all. Here are some of the most common ones: No cold air. This can also be linked to an incorrect thermostat setting, a dirty air filter or a refrigerant leak. Make sure your settings are correct, your filter is clean and that you’re not hearing bubbling or hissing sounds near your air conditioner. If the problem persists, call us at 307-778-0515 for air conditioning repair. Humming sounds. Air conditioner noises are a sign that something’s wrong. Hearing humming means your capacitator could be going out. But it can also be caused by loose parts, a bad circuit breaker, a broken contractor relay switch or if your air conditioner freezes. If you’re not sure what’s wrong, AC Mechanical can diagnose the problem. Air conditioner struggles to turn on or turns off without warning. If your air conditioner takes a long time to turn on, won’t turn on or shuts off mid-cycle, the capacitor could be to blame.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do electronic air cleaners really work?

An electronic air cleaner is an effective way to improve your home’s indoor air quality. This equipment is installed in your ductwork, alongside your heating and cooling system. It uses electricity to create a charge in its filter, which attracts and traps particles like pollen, pet dander, mold and more. While filters with a higher MERV rating, like HEPA filters, are effective at capturing extremely small particles, they’re also very thick. This density can restrict airflow in your HVAC system and increase your energy bill. Electronic air cleaner filters have larger open areas, which make it easier for air to flow unrestricted. Air can still flow freely while the electric charge traps contaminants and particles, which remain trapped until you clean or replace the filter. One perk of this style of cleaner is that the metal plates can be washed and reused. But if you’re looking for easier upkeep, you can also use a disposable media air filter. For even more air purification, some models include ultraviolet (UV) germicidal lights. These powerful lights are the same intensity as rays that are responsible for sunburn. When used in your HVAC system, they can inactivate some viruses under certain airflow conditions. Our professionals at AC Mechanical can help you find the right indoor air quality solution for your needs and budget. Give us a call at 307-778-0515 to get started with a free, no-obligation consultation and free estimate.

Q: How much water does a humidifier use?

How much water your whole-house humidifier uses depends on your desired humidity setting and the model you install. Most models use between 1.5 and 12 gallons each day. It’s not enough to notice a significant difference on your water bill, but enough to keep your home comfortable. We recommend keeping your home’s humidity level between 30-60%, which national studies say is the right range for comfort and health. There are several types of whole-house humidifiers but the most efficient kind is a steam humidifier. These humidifiers heat water in a reservoir to change it into steam. That steam is then distributed through your ductwork either independently or when your furnace is running, depending on the model you have.

Q: How often should I change my air filter at home?

How often you need to change your air filter depends on your family’s needs and the type of filter you use. Here are a few other factors you’ll need to consider: -If you use a flat or pleated filter - If someone in your home has allergies or asthma - If you have pets Basic flat filters are the most common type of filter. These filters only provide the minimum level of filtration to keep dust out of your system. So, you’ll want to change them every 30–60 days. Thick, pleated filters should be changed every 90 days. If you’re unsure of whether your filter needs to be changed, hold it up to the light. If you can’t see light through it, it’s time to put in a new one. These averages can also help you determine when to replace the air filter in your home: - You live alone and don’t have pets or allergies: every 6–12 months - You have a family but no pets: every 90 days - Your family has one dog or cat: every 60 days - Your family has more than one pet or has someone who suffers from allergies: every 20¬–45 days If you’re tired of changing your filter frequently or are looking for ways to reduce allergy symptoms, ask AC Mechanical about options to include for your home’s indoor air quality. Some filters might not be compatible with your system and may restrict airflow. So, it’s important to check with an HVAC professional first.

Q: What air temperature should my air conditioner produce?

This depends on a couple of things: your home’s current temperature and your thermostat settings. A general rule of thumb is to have the air coming out of your vents be about 20 degrees colder than the ambient temperature. So, if your house is 85 degrees, the air coming out of the vents should be about 65 degrees. To keep your home at the most energy-efficient temperature during the summer, we recommend keeping your thermostat close to the outdoor temperature. Lowering the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures will help you save more. For the greatest energy savings, you can install a smart thermostat. These thermostats take the guesswork out of energy-efficient temperatures by creating a schedule based on your preferences.

Q: What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary based on how much you’re exposed to and how long you’re exposed. Low exposure can mimic flu-like symptoms, such as a headache, fatigue or nausea. Higher or extreme exposure can cause: Severe, migraine-like headache - Drowsiness - Disorientation - Confusion - High heart rate - Unconsciousness - Seizures - Heart failure - Coma - Death You can’t see or smell carbon monoxide. That’s why it’s so important to have a carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home and outside bedrooms. That way, you can be alerted if there’s a problem in the middle of the night. Annual furnace maintenance with AC Mechanical is another way to protect yourself against carbon monoxide. This service ensures your furnace is working properly and safely. We check all critical parts, including the heat exchanger, which can leak carbon monoxide if it cracks.

Q: What does HVAC stand for?

HVAC is an all-encompassing term that stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. It’s often used to refer to your home’s complete heating and cooling system, which includes: - Heating and cooling equipment, such as a furnace, heat pump, air conditioner or ductless mini-split - Ductwork - Indoor air quality products like air filters, air filtration systems, germicidal UV lights, whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers and fresh air ventilation systems - Thermostats and home zoning systems While there are a variety of options for heating and cooling your home, these systems work similarly by: - Using a source of fresh air inside or outside your home for combustion or transferring heat. - Using a filter to trap particles and allergens. - Distributing heated or cooled air through ductwork or straight into a specific room.

Q: What causes indoor air pollution?

Today’s homes are very airtight, which is great for your energy bill. But it’s not so great for air quality, since there are fewer chances for polluted air to escape and fresh air to get in. In fact, the EPA says indoor air quality can be two to five times worse than outdoors due to the lack of ventilation. Some of the most common indoor air pollutants are: - Carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal in large concentrations indoors. It’s commonly produced by a malfunctioning gas appliance, like your furnace. - Radon, an invisible radioactive gas that naturally occurs in rocks and soil. It can seep into your home through cracks or gaps in your foundation. Long-term radon exposure is the number one cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. - Volatile organic compounds, which are gases that emit from certain man-made products, like personal care products, air fresheners and cleaning products. They can also be found in paint, furniture, flooring and drapes. - Pet dander and dust mites - Tobacco smoke - Mold - Too little or too much humidity For some people, increased indoor air pollution can cause eye, nose and throat irritation as well as headaches. It can also aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms. The best way to reduce indoor air pollution is to eliminate the source, but that isn’t always possible. That’s why AC Mechanical offers a number of indoor air quality solutions, including improved air filters, air purification systems, humidifiers and dehumidifiers. Ask us about what products would be right for your home’s unique challenges.

Q: Why is my HVAC making noise?

It’s normal for your HVAC system to make some noise as it starts and heats or cools your home. However, some noises aren’t normal. Be on the lookout for these and call AC Mechanical at 307-778-0515 for furnace repair or air conditioning repair if you hear them. We’re available around the clock through our 24/7 emergency service. 7 FURNACE NOISES THAT AREN’T NORMAL 1. Clicking while heating (compressor or control panel) 2. Grinding or scraping (worn bearings) 3. Humming (fan or capacitor) 4. Popping or banging (ductwork expansion or gas accumulation, which is a carbon monoxide risk) 5. Rumbling (incomplete combustion, carbon monoxide risk) 6. Squealing (blower motor) 7. Thumping (blower wheel or motor) 6 AIR CONDITIONING NOISES THAT AREN’T NORMAL 1. Banging, clanking, humming or rattling (loose part) 2. Buzzing (electrical) 3. Continuous clicking (blower fan, compressor or electrical) 4. Gurgling (clogged drain line) 5. Hissing or whistling (refrigerant leak) 6. Squealing (compressor)

Q: What's the proper amount of indoor humidity?

Having the right humidity levels in your home is crucial for balancing comfort and healthy indoor air quality. Although your preferences may vary, the Mayo Clinic recommends 30-50% for indoor humidity. You can easily keep track of your home’s humidity by installing a Lennox® smart thermostat and a whole-house humidifier or whole-house dehumidifier as needed. If your home has too little humidity, you might experience: Nosebleeds Itchy, dry skin Chapped or cracking lips Scratchy throat Increased allergy or asthma symptoms More frequent illnesses, like colds or the flu Static electricity Damage to wood flooring, furniture and cabinets Dry air that feels colder than it really is If your home has too much humidity, you might be dealing with: Mold, especially in bathrooms Condensation on windows, walls and the ceiling Musty odors Clammy air that feels warmer than it really is If you’re concerned your home’s humidity levels are imbalanced, call our AC Mechanical professionals at 307-778-0515. As your local Lennox Premier Dealer™, we’re committed to your total comfort and complete satisfaction.

Q: How do I know if I have an existing warranty on my HVAC system?

Your heating and cooling system includes a valuable manufacturer’s warranty when it’s installed. This warranty typically covers certain components, like the compressor or heat exchanger, for a certain timeframe. Most manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance in the event you need to make a warranty claim. To find out if your warranty is still valid, go to the manufacturer’s website and enter your system’s serial number. You can find the serial number on a sticker on the outside of your furnace or air conditioner. If we installed it, call us at 307-778-0515 for assistance.