HVAC system stopped blowing cold air today. Last time it did this, we gave it a 2-3 hour break, in case it was over-heated, and it came back. Today, same deal, but no cold air after a few hours. I went out and didn't hear the compressor or fan going.
After opening the unit to have a look, I noticed that 1) the capacitor had "goop" over it (see circled sections of pictures below) 2) the electronics "bay" looked a bit wet, which was odd (see top of picture #1 below). I suspect this is a sign of a blown capacitor, but GoogleBing image searches aren't conclusive. Suggestions? Opinions? Conclusions?
Exhibit 1
Exhibit 2
Best Answer
The capacitor needs replacement. While it is possible there is a circuitry problem causing the capacitor to overheat (and thus fail like this), it is also possible it was simply time for this electrolytic capacitor to fail while nothing else is wrong.
See this photo for a similar failure mode.