How do you tell if it's the compressor or the capacitor?

A compressor with a bad capacitor will hum but not start. Testing the capacitor's output against its rated spec reveals whether it's delivering enough starting power. If the capacitor passes, the compressor itself is investigated next.

Why do contractors sometimes recommend compressor replacement when it's a capacitor?

A non-starting compressor looks the same from the outside whether the cause is the capacitor or the compressor motor. Without testing the capacitor first, it's easy to assume the compressor is dead.

Is a capacitor replacement a permanent fix?

If the compressor motor is intact and only the capacitor has failed, yes. The compressor runs normally once the capacitor is replaced. The motor itself doesn't need replacement.

Compressor Vs Capacitor Failure

A Jurong West client was advised to replace their outdoor compressor. The unit wasn't cooling, and the contractor said the compressor was dead. Before committing to major work, they wanted confirmation. What we found was different. If you were told to replace a compressor directly, get a WhatsApp second opinion first.

Case Details

LocationJurong West, Singapore

BrandPanasonic

Unit age9 yrs

ComplaintThe unit worked normally until the fault appeared with no prior warning. It is not cold at all — the outdoor fan is spinning but the compressor makes a brief struggling 'buzz' on startup and then clicks off.

CauseFailed run capacitor — compressor motor intact

The Assessment

A non-running compressor can be caused by the compressor itself, or by the components that control it. Before concluding the compressor is dead, we test what actually failed.

Power was reaching the compressor
Compressor motor resistance checks were within normal range
Capacitor output was below spec — not delivering enough starting power
Compressor was humming but not starting — a classic capacitor failure pattern

The Diagnosis

Compressors need a capacitor for starting power — like a jump-start boost. When the capacitor degrades, it can't deliver enough charge. The compressor tries to start, hums, then stops. From the outside it looks dead. The motor is fine. It just needs a new capacitor.

Replace the capacitor first. If the compressor starts normally after, problem solved. If it still won't start, then investigate the compressor. Rule out the smaller fix before doing a major replacement.

The Outcome

Client approved the capacitor replacement. The compressor started normally, ran smoothly, and cooling returned. The unit remains fully working since the repair.

Timeline

Week 1Unit stopped cooling — outdoor compressor not starting

Week 1 (Day 3)Previous contractor recommended compressor replacement

Week 2 (Day 1)Client contacted Snowflake for second opinion

Week 2 (Day 1, same visit)Snowflake assessment: Compressor motor tested normal, capacitor output tested below spec

Week 2 (Day 2)Capacitor replaced — compressor started normally, cooling restored

PresentRunning normally, original compressor intact

What This Means for You

Are you seeing this pattern?

Aircon suddenly stops cooling entirely
Outdoor fan spins, but you don't hear the deep hum of the compressor
Compressor makes a brief struggling 'buzz' then clicks off

If this matches your situation, don't assume the compressor is dead. It might just be the starting capacitor — a quick, inexpensive fix compared to a major replacement.

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