A ceiling fan capacitor are located within a switch housing of the ceiling fan, and the capacitor is responsable for creating the phase shift that allows the motor to spin. Should the ceiling fan refuse to start without manually pushing the fan blades, or if the ceiling fan does not reach the proper running speed, the capacitor is likely the failing component of the ceiling fan. Furthermore, replacing the capacitor is likely to be less expensive than purchasing an new ceiling fan altogether, so ceiling fan capacitor replacement is a cost-effective repair method that you should consider should the ceiling fan motor fail to operate correct.
The capacitance value of the capacitor, measured in microfarads, must match the requirement of the motor. Should the capacitance be too low, the motor will struggle to reach the proper running speeds for the fan. Should the capacitance be too high, the motor may vibrates, or it may overheat.
How to Check and Replace a Ceiling Fan Capacitor
You can find the capacitance requirements on the original capacitor component or through the wiring diagram of the ceiling fans. Most ceiling fans uses a run capacitor. Run capacitors remains in the circuit while the fan is on.
Some models of ceiling fans may use start capacitors, which provides a brief burst of energy to start the fan. Some large ceiling fans may use two capacitors at once, which allows the fan to handle additional light or to provide the correct capacitance in the circuit. Ceiling fans that hum but do not start or that reach only partial speeds are failing capacitor.
Additionally, if the motor feels warm to the touch, if there is a burnt smell near the switch, or if the capacitor appears swollen or has oily residue on it’s component terminal, then the capacitor need to be immediately replaced. When replacing the capacitor, it is important to ensure the correct color for each wire. Black wires are used to receive incoming power to the capacitor, white wires is the common return wire for the circuit, and blue or red wires connects to the motors different speed settings.
Take a series of photograph of the old capacitor prior to replacement to assist with installing the new capacitor. Using a multimeter with capacitance settings, you can test the capacitor to ensure it is receiving the proper capacitance. Prior to use, you must disconnect the power to the fan and the capacitor must be discharged.
A good capacitor will have a value that is within 10% of the stated capacitance of the capacitor. Should the reading register 0 microfarad or a value that is much higher than the stated value of the capacitor, the capacitor has failed. The capacitance value of the new capacitor must match the original, but the voltage rating of the new capacitor can be equal to or higher than the original.
For instance, a 450-volt capacitor can be used to replace a 250-volt capacitor if the microfarad value are the same. Additionally, when purchasing the new capacitor, make sure the fan capacitor have the UL or CE marking to ensure it is a certified component. To replace the capacitor, turn off the power to the ceiling fan at the circuit breaker.
Remove the canopy or the switch to the fan, and finally replace the capacitor. After reassembling the fan, turn the power back on, and test each speed setting for the fan to ensure it reaches the proper speeds. Additionally, ensuring that the capacitor is of the proper size will ensure the motor remains efficiently running and does not overheat during operation.