How to test a Dual Run Capacitor from Air Conditioner with a Multimeter

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Just a simple way to verify if a capacitor is shorted or open using a multi meter set on Ohms. You can reverse the red and black as well, but the ohms will show as negative (-)

Here's a link to a basic multimeter if you don't have one already: amzn.to/2Mw4Mad

WARNING: Please note that you must turn off the power to your A/C Unit and safely discharge the capacitor before attempting this test. Do not touch the leads that attach the capacitor until you have properly discharged it.

Yes, I know that this isn't the correct way to measure MFD or Capacitance. It is really just a continuity test to see if the capacitor is trash. (open or shorted)

If you would like a capacitance meter, here is a basic inexpensive one that has great reviews on Amazon.com: amzn.to/3qw5B7p

Here's a helpful quote from one of the commenters explaining why this worked in my video:
"A capacitor only passes AC and so will normally show an infinite resistance at DC. The technique shown in this video works because the initial application of the ohm meter hits the capacitor with a current transient (i.e., AC). The capacitor provides a relatively low resistance to this pulse of AC current, which is why the meter reading fluctuates before settling to the "infinite" resistance reading." - DGK284

Here is another helpful quote from "Capacitors 101" on the ifixit website:
"To perform a check on a capacitor while it is still installed in a circuit, an ESR meter will be necessary. If the capacitor is removed from the circuit then a multimeter set as an ohm meter can be used, but only to perform an all-or-nothing test. This test will only show if the capacitor is completely dead, or not. It will not determine if the capacitor is in good or poor condition. To determine if a capacitor is functioning at the right value (capacitance), a capacitor tester will be necessary. Of course, this also holds true to determine the value of an unknown capacitor."
"To test the capacitor with a multimeter, set the meter to read in the high ohms range, somewhere above 10k and 1m ohms. Touch the meter leads to the corresponding leads on the capacitor, red to positive and black to negative. The meter should start at zero and then moving slowly toward infinity. This means that the capacitor is in working condition. If the meter stays at zero, the capacitor is not charging through the battery of the meter, meaning it is not working."

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Here's a link to several capacitors on Amazon.com: amazon.com/s?k=capacitor+for+ac+unit&camp=1…

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This video is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Any repairs you make are your responsibility. I am not liable for any damages to you or your vehicle or your property.

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