Diagnose and Repair Capacitor in Trane XR13

Posted by: Mas Broto
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Trane XR13 Heat Pump Capacitor

Capacitors is a small cylindrical part that store and supply energy in your Trane XR13 unit. They either work to start a motor and keep a motor running. Trane xr13 capacitor could be one of the essential components in your A/C unit. They work together with the compressor, the blower motor, and the outside fan in your air conditioner.

If the Trane xr13 capacitor isn’t working, that can lead to sorts of A/C problems. In some cases, your air conditioner is running fine, but the fan isn’t moving. Other case, the fan is running but not blowing cold air. If these happened, it’s likely you have a bad A/C capacitor, and it can’t provide that kickstart of energy the fan, compressor, or blower needs to do its job.

The most common problem that bad capacitors can cause in Trane xr13 is hard starting. This is when the compressor is difficult to starting up, stutters trying to turn on, and then shuts off a short while later.

You can also tell that the Trane xr13 capacitor is failing if you hear a clicking sound from inside of your air conditioner.

Direct looking at the capacitor itself can also give you some idea about how to troubleshoot the problem. When the spae of the capacitor is bulge, instead of a flat surface, or if there’s leakage, that’s a sure sign that your trane xr13 capacitor is in a bad condition and need replacement.

Symptoms of a Bad Trane xr13 Capacitor

The most common signs and symptoms of a bad capacitor:

  • AC not blowing cold air
  • AC is hard starting
  • Clicking sound coming from your air conditioner
  • AC shuts off on its own
  • AC won’t turn on

What Causes Capacitors To Fail?

Air conditioner capacitors can fail for a lot of different reasons, but mostly it is just due to age. Trane xr13 capacitor is capable of giving you years worth of service. This condition happen if you are having annual maintenance completed on your air conditioner.

These are the common causes of capacitor failure:

Voltage Rating
The incoming voltage to your house constantly varies. When the voltage is lower than required, an electric motor pulls more amperage. A sudden surge of high voltage can be detrimental too. The run/start capacitor tends to be the weak link in the circuit and fails.

Motor Failure
If a condenser fan motor, blower motor, or compressor begin to fail (bearings) or seize up entirely, the amperage on the circuit skyrockets and can wipe out the capacitor.

Heat exposure
The hotter the area is, the more risk your trane xr13 capacitor is at for failure. Overheating it can damage the unit and shorten its lifespan.

How to Replace Trane XR13 Capacitor by Yourself

  • Turn off the power to the unit at the disconnect or breaker panel.
  • Find and inspect the capacitor.
  • Discharge the power of the capacitor.
  • Dismount the old capacitor.
  • Note down how the wires connect.
  • Disconnect the wires.
  • Choose a replacement.
  • Buy a replacement and attach.

The big problems with Trane xr13 capacitor failure is that it can lead to damage to other parts that it powers. When you notice the capacitor is in problem, it’s best to replace it as soon as possible so that you don’t end up with additional maintenance needs and costs.

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Mas Broto

Have been in the heating and air conditioning (HVAC) industry for over 20 years. He is person that will grow and thrive to learn more about the HVAC industry throughout his career. Mas Broto is also a blogger, who's dedicated to bringing you the best knowledge to get ahead in the game of life.

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