A home's air-conditioning system uses many electronic components to generate cool air to each room vent. These systems use large capacitor components to store electrical energy for a boost to the air conditioner when needed. When you need to work internally on the air conditioner, it is imperative that you discharge the two main capacitors, called the run and the start capacitors. Although you may have the power disconnected to the air conditioner, these components are designed to hold electrical energy. Without discharging the capacitors, you can easily electrocute yourself.
Turn off the air conditioner's circuit breaker at the main electrical panel. Use a non-contact circuit tester at the air-conditioner to verify that the power is off completely to prevent electrocution.
Remove the screws holding the air conditioner's side panel to the main assembly with a screwdriver. Consult the air conditioner's manual for specific capacitor location within the main assembly behind the panel. Each manufacturer designs the internal component locations differently.
Pull the side panel from the air conditioner and place to the side.
Visually locate the air conditioner's capacitor within the interior. Do not touch anything inside the appliance; it is possible to be shocked if you touch any exposed connectors or wires.
Hold the screwdriver only by its insulated handle. Do not touch the bare metal tool end.
Place the screwdriver's metal end across the two terminals that protrude from the capacitor. Connecting the two terminals with the metal screwdriver essentially shorts the capacitor's circuit and releases the internal electrical energy.
Repeat step 6 if there is more than one capacitor in the immediate housing area.
Remove the screwdriver from the air conditioner's interior.
Continue with the intended air-conditioner repair after this discharging process.
Things You Will Need
- Non-contact circuit tester device
- There will be at least one capacitor on each air-conditioning unit, including both the indoor and outdoor portions. Consult the air-conditioner's manual for particular information and location for each component. Manufacturers may use single or dual capacitors for their designs.
- If you are not comfortable discharging the capacitor, you can contact a professional heating and cooling technician. Although they will charge you a fee, it is safer to have a trained technician discharge the component if you are unsure of your personal abilities.
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