What is a common symptom of a malfunctioning capacitor?

A common symptom of a malfunctioning capacitor is that the system may fail to start or run inconsistently. Capacitors are crucial components in HVAC systems, particularly in air conditioning and heat pump units, where they provide the necessary electrical charge to start the compressor and the blower motor.

When the capacitor is defective or weak, it may not hold enough charge to start the motor properly. This can result in the system being unable to initiate operation, or it may cause the system to start intermittently, leading to inconsistent performance. This behavior can manifest as the unit failing to turn on at all or turning on for a brief moment and then shutting off. Such symptoms indicate that the capacitor needs to be assessed and potentially replaced to restore the proper function of the HVAC system.

In contrast, the other symptoms presented in the options relate to different issues within the system and do not typically originate from capacitor failures. For example, a system running too cool suggests a different problem related to the thermostat or temperature control settings. Unusual noises may indicate mechanical issues unrelated to the electrical side of components like capacitors. Lastly, refrigerant leaks are associated with sealed system failures, not electrical component malfunctions.