During a service call in Las Vegas, our team at Fast Affordable Air was called out to diagnose and repair a malfunctioning rooftop HVAC system. The customer reported that the central cooling was not operating efficiently and that airflow had become noticeably weak inside the home. After accessing the rooftop, we identified the unit as a Rheem Classic™ gas-electric package system.
Step 1: Visual Inspection of the Rooftop Unit
The first step was to remove the panels of the rooftop unit to check both the electrical and mechanical components. We immediately noticed that the capacitor was showing signs of failure. The top was swollen, which is a clear indicator that it needed to be replaced.
Step 2: Replacing the Failed Capacitor
The original capacitor was a 40+5 µF, 370VAC dual-run capacitor, model 43-101665-26. Capacitors help start the fan motor and compressor by storing and releasing electrical energy. A failed capacitor often leads to the fan not turning or the compressor failing to start, which disrupts the entire air conditioning cycle.
We replaced the old CSC capacitor with a new AMRAD USA2235 model, which offers the same specifications but with an upgraded build quality for longer-lasting performance.
Step 3: Blower Motor and Fan Testing
With the new capacitor installed, we turned our attention to the indoor blower motor, located within the unit’s internal housing. We tested motor rotation, bearing condition, and wiring connections to make sure the fan could properly distribute cool air throughout the home.
This blower motor is part of what’s called the “squirrel cage” fan assembly. It pulls air through the return ducts and pushes it across the evaporator coil. Keeping this motor in good shape ensures your cooling system runs efficiently and quietly.
Step 4: Gas Heat System Check
While the main complaint was cooling-related, our technicians also performed a quick check of the gas heating section. This included inspecting the burners, pressure switches, and the ignition control board. Everything checked out fine, which means the system is ready for use during colder months too.
Step 5: Final Roof Seal & Safety Review
We ensured all electrical whip connections and penetrations through the roof were tightly sealed to prevent water leaks. The platform curb was inspected for integrity, and all panels were securely fastened after testing. The new capacitor was tested under load, confirming both the fan motor and compressor now start reliably.
Benefits of This Repair
- Restored full cooling operation to the home in time for rising temperatures
- Improved energy efficiency thanks to a properly functioning capacitor and fan motor
- Prevented further wear and tear on the compressor by resolving startup issues early
- Extended the life of the Rheem rooftop unit through proactive maintenance
For homeowners and property managers around Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas, it’s important to address HVAC issues early. Small electrical components like capacitors are inexpensive but vital to the system’s overall health.
