Your washing machine has several parts that could fail due to normal wear and tear. One of those parts is the start capacitor that gives the washer motor a boost so the motor can start up properly. The capacitor is a small and inexpensive part, but if it starts to malfunction, your washer might not start; if it does start, the motor might overheat.
It may take a visit from a washer repair service to determine if the problem is a bad capacitor so it can be replaced. Here are a few signs you have a faulty washer start capacitor and how a bad one is replaced.
Signs The Washer Start Capacitor Is Bad
When a motor first starts up, it needs more power than once it runs continuously. This extra boost of power is supplied by the capacitor, which acts as a battery to store power for when it is needed. If the capacitor is bad, there may not be enough power for the motor to start and your washer may not work at all. However, the motor may still try to start but struggles because it doesn't have enough power. This can cause the motor to burn itself out. Your washer might run, but be slow and not work properly.
Testing That Identifies A Bad Capacitor
The washer repair professional might tell by watching how the washer operates if the capacitor is bad. However, they can tell for sure by using a multimeter to test the capacitor. First, the washer has to be taken apart so the capacitor can be checked with the meter. If it's bad, the capacitor needs to be replaced with a new one.
Repair Steps When The Washer Capacitor Goes Bad
Replacing the capacitor is simple. The most difficult part is taking the washer apart. The top of the washer has to be unscrewed so it can be lifted out of the way to release the cabinet. The cabinet is then pulled away from the washer, leaving the rear panel in place. The capacitor is attached to the rear panel with a holder and wiring.
The wiring is disconnected from the old capacitor, then the capacitor is pulled out of the holder and removed from the washer. A new capacitor is placed in the holder and attached to the wiring. After that, the washer is put back together and tested to make sure it starts up and runs properly.
One thing to keep in mind when dealing with a bad capacitor is that if it still holds a charge, you could get shocked from handling it. For that reason, you may not want to attempt changing a faulty capacitor by yourself. You can let a washer repair professional do the job instead so you don't have to worry about electrical safety.
Share26 August 2021
After I purchased my first home, I realized that there were a few issues with my kitchen appliances. It just seemed like nothing worked like it should, and it was really frustrating. To ward off problems in the future, I started looking around for an appliances repair services business that could help. I was able to find a great company that came out, evaluated our equipment, and made the necessary changes. This blog is all about the different things to look for if your appliances start to fail. You never know, you might be able to ward off some serious expenses in the future.