Capacitors are traditionally tested with a capacitance meter (commonly found as a function within a multimeter), with the component taken entirely out of the circuit. “Bench testing,” as this method is referred to, is hands-down the safest method of checking capacitance in microfarads. All other methods require the capacitor to be wired into the circuit […]

I got a lot of comments that many of you discharge run capacitors with a voltmeter. I test this method vs. the capacitor discharge tool I created. Obviously, many of you use needle nose pliers or a screwdriver. While this is widely practiced, it could result in an arc, shock, or damage to the capacitor. […]

My technician (and brother-in-law), Bert, made a good point. (It's hard for me to admit it, but it's true.) When he needs to open the refrigerant circuit to make a repair, regardless of whether he is recovering or pumping down, he pulls out his nitrogen tank and his regulator. (We like the Western Enterprises VN-500 […]