CAP005 Generic 5uF Motor Capacitor, Universal Appliance Capacitor for Rangehood Fans, Pumps and Small Single Phase Motors

CAP005 is a generic 5uF capacitor for appliance motor circuits, the kind of part used with fans, pumps and small motors across many brands. Because it isn't tied to one manufacturer, the job is matching values rather than model numbers. Read the label on the old capacitor for its microfarad (uF) rating, voltage, tolerance and terminal style, and make sure this 5uF part lines up with those details.

Signs a motor capacitor has failed

Single phase motors in appliances often rely on a capacitor to shift the phase in one winding, which gets the motor started and turning the right way. As a capacitor ages its value drops and the motor struggles. Typical signs are a fan or motor that hums but won't start, one that only spins after a flick by hand, slow speed, overheating or a motor running backwards. A capacitor that's bulging, leaking or cracked has clearly failed and should be swapped.

Part details

• Generic capacitor, code CAP005
• Capacitance 5uF
• For appliance motor circuits that call for 5uF

Safe capacitor replacement

Unplug the appliance or isolate it at the switchboard before opening it up. Capacitors can hold a charge after power is removed, so discharge the old one safely before touching its terminals. Note or photograph the wiring, fit the new capacitor in the same position and secure it so it can't rattle. Hard-wired appliances should be handled by a licensed electrician.

Questions about this part

Can I use a capacitor with a different uF value?

It's best not to. The motor is designed around a set capacitance, and the wrong value can make it run hot, slow or noisy. Stick with 5uF if that's what the old capacitor says, and choose a voltage rating equal to or higher than the original.