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Signs that your air conditioner capacitor is bad or failing include a range of symptoms. The AC unit may not turn on at all, or it might struggle to start before shutting down randomly or in the middle of a cooling cycle. You might hear a humming or banging noise when it attempts to start, or the compressor might hum without the unit actually running. Other indicators include a smell or smoke coming from the unit, the blower circulating room-temperature air instead of cold air, and an unexpected increase in your energy bills.

You should clean your air conditioner at least once per year, but you may need to clean your whole HVAC system (including the air ducts) more often. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association, you may need to clean them more frequently depending on factors like whether you smoke, have pets, or have allergies.

It depends on the specifics of your warranty. The motor is likely not covered if you’re working with a limited warranty. The same goes for other components like the compressor and evaporator coil. Some extended warranties will cover the blower and fan motor, so read the fine print before signing up. Additionally, the manufacturer may offer a warranty for the parts, including the motor, though there’s likely to be a strict time limit for this coverage.

Yes, having mismatched evaporator and condenser coils in your AC system can lead to serious issues. For instance, it can result in higher monthly energy costs as the system runs longer to compensate for the mismatch. This mismatch can also put extra stress on the system, compromising its efficiency and longevity. 

Along with that, mismatched coils can lead to higher temperatures and humidity levels in the home. What’s more, using coils of different sizes may violate the manufacturer's warranty, as they are designed to work synergistically, and any mismatch could lead to repairs and system failure.