27L1576 (2025)

FAQs

How to tell if a pool pump capacitor is bad? ›

Remove the two wires connected to the capacitor, with a small flathead, or needle nose pliers. If the capacitor is bulged or cracked, or looks like it is burned or charred, you can assume that it is D.O.A. and you need a replacement capacitor.

This is a part that costs less than $20.00 and can be easily tested and replaced as a DIY activity. A $20.00 part is much easier on the wallet than a new motor that can cost anywhere from $130.00 to $300.00 plus.

It's important to monitor your AC system for signs of capacitor failure, such as humming noises, difficulty starting, or inconsistent cooling performance, to ensure your unit runs efficiently and reliably. If your system seems to be showing signs of failure, turn to Sanborn's for AC repair services.

The answer to both of your questions, unfortunately, is no. You will cause damage to the motor. Replace it with the same microfarad / voltage-rated capacitor, and you will be in great shape. The pool pump hums and then clicks off when trying to start. ...

Think of your pool pump capacitor as your pool pump's battery. It functions the same as a car battery, giving your pump's motor the required energy to reach the critical velocity (or RPM) before switching over to another power source. And much like car batteries, a busted capacitor won't allow your pool pump to start.

The capacitor stores power like a battery and over time loses the ability to store as much as it needs to. After about three years, a start capacitor will need to be replaced.

Fortunately, fixing a bad AC capacitor is typically a straightforward air conditioner repair. Grove Heating & Cooling walks you through the steps we take to repair a bad capacitor in your air conditioner so you know exactly what to expect during your service appointment.

Be warned, however, as the humming can also be a sign of a faulty or seized motor shaft. If you can turn the motor shaft manually, then it's likely the capacitor causing the issue. If it can't turn manually, then it's an entirely different issue that has to do with the motor or bearings.

You can safely substitute a higher voltage rating capacitor in place of a lower one, but never put a lower voltage capacitor if the original was a higher voltage---These capacitors are used on many Capacitor Start/Capacitor Run Motors.

There can be two types of capacitors in a pump - a start capacitor and/or a run capacitor. Start capacitors have a range between 108 to 300 mfd or uf. 115 volts is typical for a start capacitor. Capacitors are rated for the maximum voltage that they can handle safely.

What are the symptoms of a bad capacitor on a water pump? ›

If a run capacitor fails, the motor can display a variety of problems including not starting, overheating, and vibrating.

If the capacitor has gone bad, the motor will still attempt to operate — but without the power necessary to do so, the motor can overwork and burn out, leading to major damage that can come with a hefty price tag.

When a capacitor short-circuits, the winding in the motor may burn out. When a capacitor deteriorates or opens, the motor has poor starting torque. Poor starting torque may prevent the motor from starting, which will usually trip the overloads.

If a water pump's capacitor is malfunctioning, you may notice that the pump is not working as well as it should be, or that it is making unusual noises. Additionally, you may notice that the pump is running less efficiently than usual, which can lead to higher energy bills.

Fortunately, diagnosing a bad AC capacitor is relatively straightforward for a trained HVAC technician. They will use a multimeter to test the voltage rating across the capacitor terminals. If the voltage reading is too low, then the capacitor is most likely defective and needs to be replaced.