Before testing a capacitor start motor with an ohmmeter, what must you do?

Discharging the capacitor before testing a capacitor start motor with an ohmmeter is crucial because capacitors can hold a significant voltage even after power is removed. If the capacitor is not discharged, it may give a false reading on the ohmmeter and could potentially pose a shock hazard to the technician.

When testing electrical components, ensuring safety is a priority, and discharging the capacitor eliminates the risk of electric shock and ensures accurate measurements. This practice is a standard safety procedure in electrical maintenance and testing, reflecting a proper understanding of capacitors’ operation and the characteristics of electric circuits.

While checking the power supply and inspecting connections are important for overall motor integrity and functionality, they do not specifically pertain to the preparation necessary for safely and effectively testing the motor with an ohmmeter. Replacing the motor is typically considered a last resort when issues arise after testing and diagnosing has been performed.