What is the proper way to replace start/run capacitor's on a motor? Assuming they could still be live I've read: Disconnect power from machine. Remove wiring from cap terminals & immediately tape them to avoid inadvertant jolt while removing. Then on the bench, 'short' them for storage. Sounds electrifying. Is a screwdriver with plastic handle considered safe?
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Motor capacitor procedure
- Thread starter PeterT
- Start date
You can use a large value resistor 100k or so and this will dissipate the current slowly so you don't get the big spark.
Elektrishun
Well-Known Member
Depending on the degree of danger you can choose a variety of options.
For small single phase motors the start capacitor can be safely discharged with a screwdriver that has a thick plastic handle by placing the metal shank across the capacitor terminals.
Like @combustable herbage already mentioned if you don't like sparks you can build a discharge tool and leave it connected for a few hours or overnight.
There are online calculators that can help you determine the time it will take the resistor to discharge the capacitor:
www.digikey.ca
For small single phase motors the start capacitor can be safely discharged with a screwdriver that has a thick plastic handle by placing the metal shank across the capacitor terminals.
Like @combustable herbage already mentioned if you don't like sparks you can build a discharge tool and leave it connected for a few hours or overnight.
There are online calculators that can help you determine the time it will take the resistor to discharge the capacitor:
Conversion Calculator Capacitor Safety Discharge
Calculate capacitor discharge time with DigiKey's capacitor safety discharge calculator.
Chipper5783
Super User
Interesting. I’ve changed several, never worried about it. The old tube TVs or a microwave - yes.
Most motor capacitors are cheap and self discharge in a few hours. They don't have to be expensive low leakage caps, so they aren't.
If you don't like sparks and don't want to make a discharge circuit, just leave them sit overnight.
I once saw a fellow use a light bulb in a light fixture with leads. When the light quit glowing the danger was over. For 220V motors use two bulbs in series.
If you don't like sparks and don't want to make a discharge circuit, just leave them sit overnight.
I once saw a fellow use a light bulb in a light fixture with leads. When the light quit glowing the danger was over. For 220V motors use two bulbs in series.