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what makes the capacitor go bad frequently?

5.3K views 15 replies 10 participants last post by  mgenius33  
#1 ·
i have 20 year old Bryant 3.5 ton unit. This unit does not run very often as it's for downstairs and temp set is high, 78F because of my parents

past 10 years, capacity has gone bad every 2-3 years.

rumbling noises - replaced
Bulging capacitor - replaced
Stopped working - replaced
rumbling noised - replaced.

i have another unit which runs alot for upstairs. 17 years 4 ton unit. Capacity never went bad until I replace the entire unit. I used it for 7 years after I moved. The new unit - 4 years hasn't had any issue with cpacitor

I know I have a old unit and it does not make sense to me that particular unit has had an issue with capacitors so often. Other than capacitor issues, it works perfectly.

any idea?

the contractor told me it's the way it is and unsure why
 
Discussion starter · #13 ·
Why not research your model number of your outdoor unit and see what the exact size was in there initially, does not mean the one in there now is the exact rating in MFD…or voltage.

i checked today. per repairclinic.com search result mine should be 40+5mfd 440V and that's what I have now.. I don't know what I have had before though.
my model is 561CJX042000AAAA..i think it's 3.5 ton.
 
Discussion starter · #3 ·
Cheap made in China capacitors?….

5 minute off cycle time delay on system, what type of metering device do you have on this system? A piston metering device or a non bleed TXV. Voltage fluctuation? No burnt wire tips, all high voltage electrical connections tightened up, compressor contactor points in good overall condition.

A quality start assist kit on your system now?

Correctly sized capacitor?

is there anything that's not made in China these days?.i have no way to know.

i know there is a delay, I think i heard mine is piston. i did take a look at the wiring in the unit. I don't notice any burning...
I will ask a tech to check voltage next time...contactor is old. I think it may be the one that came with...looks clean but old.

what is start assist kit?..I don't think i have anything added to the system.
 
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