- Actuators
- Adapters
- Air Blowers
- Air Conditioners
- Air Curtains
- Air Purifiers
- Anemometers
- Axial fans
- Ball Valves
- Belimo
- Blowers
- Brackets
- Brass
- Brazing Rods
- Capacitors
- Carrier Parts
- Clamp Meters
- Cleaning Products
- Coatings
- Compressors
- Condensate Pumps
- Connectors
- Contactors
- Copper Capillary
- Copper Coils
- Copper Straight Tubes
- Copper Strainers
What do capacitors do for air conditioning motors?
What do capacitors do for air conditioning motors?
In an air conditioning motor, capacitors act as electrical storage batteries that provide the extra electrical boost needed to start and smoothly run the motor.
Because standard residential single-phase electricity cannot naturally create the rotating magnetic field required to turn a motor, capacitors store up electrical energy and release it out of phase. This creates a magnetic “push” to get the motor spinning and keep it running efficiently.
The Two Types of AC Capacitors
| Capacitor Type | Primary Function | How it Operates |
| Start Capacitor | Provides massive initial torque to jumpstart a stalled motor. | Disconnects via a relay within seconds once the motor hits 75% speed. |
| Run Capacitor | Maintains a smooth, efficient magnetic field and corrects power factor. | Stays permanently connected to the motor circuit while it runs. |
PETROSS capacitors are widely recognized as industry best-sellers, built for long-term durability and extended operational life. We carry an extensive inventory of PETROSS capacitors, offering a wide range of models tailored to meet the needs of HVAC/R professionals.
