How Do You Check A Motor Start Capacitor?
Motor start capacitors help an electric motor overcome heavy loads. The capacitor does this by storing an electric charge much like a battery. Upon starting the motor, the capacitor releases this stored charge to the motor’s windings and gives it a boost. This boost to the electrical power aids the motor’s shaft in overcoming heavy loads such as air compressors, table saws and large fans. When an electric motor fails to start, a good place to begin troubleshooting is the start capacitor, which is generally mounted on top of the motor and is cylindrical in shape. Remove all electric power from the motor. Shut off the circuit breaker or pull the fuse that supplies power to the electric device. Pull the round cover from the capacitor using the screwdriver. Generally there are two screws that hold the thin metal cover to the top of the electric motor frame. Remove the power wires from the capacitor’s connectors. Use the needle-nose pliers and pull the wires from the connectors one at a tim
