TV Capacitor Replacement Introduction
When a capacitor fails, your TV won’t turn on. In this article, we will discuss how to test for a defective TV capacitor and walk through the process of replacing it. If you aren’t completely comfortable with this TV repair, call us @ (888) 488-0975
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before you begin, it’s essential to prioritize safety:- Disconnect the TV from the power outlet and remove any attached cables.
- Let the TV sit for at least 30 minutes to ensure any residual power has dissipated.
- Use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent damage to sensitive electronic components.
Step 2: Accessing the Capacitors
- Place the TV face down on a soft surface, such as a blanket, to prevent screen damage.
- Unscrew and remove the back panel of the TV to expose the internal components.
- Locate the power supply board, which is typically near where the power cable connects to the TV.
Step 3: Visual Inspection
Before testing the capacitors, perform a visual inspection:- Check for any bulging, leaking, or ruptured capacitors. A healthy capacitor should have a flat top, but may still be discolored or appear to be leaking glue.
- Inspect the solder joints and traces on the board for any signs of damage or cracks in the solder or the board its mounted in.
- Take note of any suspect capacitors for further or additional testing.
Step 4: Testing the Capacitors
To properly test a capacitor, you will need a digital multimeter (DMM) with a capacitance measurement function:- Set the DMM to the capacitance setting (typically indicated by a “F” symbol).
- Carefully remove the suspect capacitor from the board by desoldering its leads.
- Connect the DMM probes to the capacitor’s leads, ensuring correct polarity.
- Check the measured capacitance value against the capacitor’s rated value. A significant deviation indicates a faulty capacitor.
Step 5: Replacing the Capacitor
- Obtain a replacement capacitor with the same capacitance, voltage rating, and temperature rating as the faulty one.
- Insert the leads of the new capacitor through the appropriate holes on the power supply board, ensuring correct polarity.
- Solder the leads to the board and trim any excess lead length.
- Double-check your work for any solder bridges or cold solder joints.
Step 6: Reassembling and Testing the TV
- Carefully reattach the back panel of the TV and secure it with the screws.
- Reconnect the power cable and any other cables previously removed.
- Power on the TV to verify that the issue has been resolved.