07/15/2021
Couple hard starts installed in Canyon Lake today. UEC Heating and Air
AC hard start kit is a capacitor — a device that collects and stores electricity ahead of time — that provides an air conditioning system with an extra boost of energy at startup.
1. Extends Compressor Lifetime
2. Assists With Low Voltage Problems or Improper Wiring
3. Provides Better Energy Efficiency
4. Allows You To Avoid Compressor Replacement
How Can You Tell When Your Air Conditioner Is Having Trouble Starting?
Here are a few warning signs that can let you know it’s time to install a hard start kit:
1. AC Tripped the Circuit Breaker
This issue can be caused by a compressor that is starting to wear. If the motor can’t supply the energy capacity needed for startup, the compressor will begin to draw higher amounts of power longer, tripping your home’s circuit breakers.
2. AC Shows Flickering Lights
It’s normal for lights to flicker slightly when appliances turn on, but severe changes in lighting or power levels can indicate a problem. If an HVAC compressor is using excessive electricity, a hard start kit can help immensely.
3. The AC has Short Period of Operation Before Shutting Off
A customary cooling cycle should last around 15-20 minutes, depending on how warm it is outside and whether you have a single-stage or variable-speed HVAC system. What if you notice that your air conditioner is only operating in short bursts of a few minutes at a time? This is called short cycling, a potential indicator that something is causing excess energy strain on the system. If the problem is electrical, an AC hard start kit may be the solution.
4. AC has Clicking Noises
Clicking can happen because of a problem with your compressor, thermostat or fan. Sometimes the issue is within the components themselves, and other times it’s due to not having enough electricity to reach run speed. HVAC pros can tell the difference and may recommend a hard start kit to assist with power.
5. The AC is Making a Humming Noise
A constant electrical hum coming from your compressor likely means that it isn’t receiving sufficient power to turn the motor. This is a serious issue because continued electrical current will generate significant excess heat, leading to damage of the compressor.