Carrier 38CKC030300 AC -- need correct dual capacitor for fan

[ssg]

I'm trying to find the correct dual capacitor for a Carrier 38CKC030300 A/C unit.  I've seen recommendations for capacitors with the following microfarad

   * 45/5

   * 35/5

   * 30/5

 

For example, this website lists two: http://www.repairclinic.com/Shop-For-Parts/a41b370c12d1182245/Model-38CKC030300-Carrier-Central-Air-Capacitor-Parts

 

OEM Part - Manufacturer #P291-4553RS
OEM Part - Manufacturer #P291-3553RS

 

I don't have the original and I don't have the manual.

 

Thanks,
Scott

 

[BryanS]

You can typically look up the model number on the compressor itself and find what it calls for. Also the condenser fan motor usually has it stamped on the motor data plate. And typically you can use a capacitor within +/- 10% of the one it is supposed to use.

Edited May 22, 2015 by BryanS

[BryanS]

3 different hvac part websites say 35/5. I would trust that over repairclinic when it comes to hvac parts. Correct way is to look up the compressor brand and model. Sometimes you can find a spec sheet and it tells you the capacitor size.

[ssg]

Thanks for the information.  I ended up going with a 30/5 because that's what came out of it.  The fan comes on now and everything seems to be working fine.  Maybe I'll check out the compressor just to double check what it says.  Thanks for the coments.

[BryanS]

No problem. I've had capacitors so rusty the label couldn't be read and that's how I went about finding the size. I think you can also look at the RLA(run load amps) and then compare it to the amp draw you are getting with that capacitor to see if they are close. I've never done it that way, but I believe that's another it can be done.

[alamo1718]

35/5 is much more common. If I remember correctly, a cap that is to small will have higher amp draw than called for. Look on the shell of the compressor. Write down everything that's written on the compressor.  You should be able to look up the cap called for by Compressor manufacturer. I'm pretty sure most popular compressor manufacturers have an app that will tell you.  If you can't find it, post it and I'll see if I can find it. I had the app's for several and I might even have a cross reference guide on my computer.