31
1. Determine that capacitor is serviceable.
2. Disconnect fan motor wires from fan speed switch or system switch.
3. Apply "live" test cord probes on black wire and common terminal of capacitor. Motor should
run at high speed.
4. Apply "live" test cord probes on red wire and common terminal of capacitor. Motor should run
at low speed.
5. Apply "live" test cord probes on each of the remaining wires from the speed switch or system
switch to test intermediate speeds.
8.4 Capacitor
A run capacitor is wired across the auxiliary and main winding of a single phase permanent split
capacitor motor such as the compressor and fan motor. A single capacitor can be used for each
motor or a dual rated capacitor can be used for both.
The capacitor's primary function is to reduce the line current while greatly improving the torque
characteristics of a motor. The capacitor also reduces the line current to the motor by improving the
power factor of the load. Run capacitor hook-up line side of the capacitor is marked with a red dot and is
wired to the line side of the circuit
Capacitor test:
1. Remove capacitor from unit.
2. Check for visual damage such as bulges, cracks, or leaks
3. For dual rated, apply an ohmmeter lead to common (C) terminal and the other probe to the
compressor (HERM) terminal. A satisfactory capacitor will cause a deflection on the pointer,
