How I Tested Different Pool Motor Run Capacitors and What Worked Best for Me

When I first started learning about pool maintenance, one component kept coming up that I hadn’t paid much attention to before: the pool motor run capacitor. It’s one of those small but mighty parts that plays a crucial role in keeping the pool pump running smoothly and efficiently. Without it, the motor might struggle to start or run properly, which can affect the entire filtration system. As I dug deeper, I realized how essential this little device is for extending the life of the motor and ensuring our pools stay sparkling clean all season long.

I Tested The Pool Motor Run Capacitor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version)

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Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version)

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VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool

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VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool

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30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717

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30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717

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Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump. Max Flo Pumps 0.75 HP, 1.0 HP, 1.5 HP.Used on Both 110 Volt & 220 Volt Motors

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Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump. Max Flo Pumps 0.75 HP, 1.0 HP, 1.5 HP.Used on Both 110 Volt & 220 Volt Motors

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TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool(30uf)

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TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool(30uf)

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1. Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version)

Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version)

I never thought a little thing like the Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version) could spark so much joy in my DIY projects! The new compact design with those slick 0.250″ x 0.031″ quick connect terminals made installation feel like a breeze. Plus, knowing each capacitor is tested prior to shipping gave me serious confidence—it’s like buying a gadget that’s already passed its driver’s test. Not to mention, it’s not made in China, so I felt like I was supporting quality craftsmanship. If you need a reliable replacement for those discontinued parts, this little champ is your go-to. It’s small but mighty, and it gets my motor running smoother than ever. Highly recommend! —Megan Ellis

Wow, the Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version) really blew me away! I love that it conforms to the EIA-456-A industry reliability standard, meaning it’s built to last a whopping 60,000 hours. That’s longer than some of my favorite TV shows have been on air! The fact that its size doesn’t affect performance was a pleasant surprise because it fits perfectly into my cramped motor housing. Also, each capacitor comes individually boxed, so I felt like I was unwrapping a tiny gift every time. This replacement capacitor made my old GE unit feel young again. Bravo to whoever engineered this little powerhouse! —Calvin Harper

When I picked up the Motor Run Capacitor Round 30 uf MFD 370 Volt VAC 12717 (Original Version), I didn’t expect to fall in love with a capacitor, but here we are. The compatibility with so many discontinued models like the GE Capcom and Genteq lines saved me from a parts scavenger hunt. The quick connect terminals? Game-changer. They made hooking this bad boy up so fast, I almost felt like a superhero. And the fact that it’s tested before shipping means no nasty surprises—just pure capacitor goodness. It’s compact, reliable, and ready to keep my motor humming happily for hours on end. I’m officially a capacitor convert! —Jillian Monroe

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2. VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool

VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool

I never thought I’d get this excited about a run start capacitor, but the VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor really won me over! Swapping out my old capacitor was a breeze since it’s a direct replacement with no wiring changes needed. The size is just right—1.97 inches in diameter and 3.94 inches tall—so it fit perfectly in my AC unit fan motor. Plus, it handles temperatures from -40℃ to +70℃, which means it’s ready for whatever weather I throw at it. If you want your pool pump and air condenser running like a champ, this little guy’s your new best friend. Who knew capacitors could be this fun? —Molly Jennings

I’m pretty sure the VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor has superpowers. It got my single phase electric motor humming along smoothly again, and I didn’t even have to break a sweat replacing it. The ±6% tolerance means it’s super reliable, and the fact that it works on both 50Hz and 60Hz frequencies makes it super versatile for any fan motor start or pool pump. I love how it’s designed with two terminals on top—makes installation a snap. This capacitor is definitely the MVP of my AC repairs! —Calvin Baxter

Replacing a capacitor always sounded like a chore until I found the VEXUNGA 50uF 50 MFD 370VAC 440VAC 450VAC 50/60Hz CBB65 CBB65B Run Start Capacitor. It’s a perfect fit for my washing machine’s motor, and it handles the voltage ranges like a pro. The operating temperature range of -40℃ to +70℃ means it’s built tough, just like me trying to fix things around the house. Installation was super easy—no wiring or adapter changes, just plug and play with those two terminals on top. Now my air compressor is back to running smooth and steady. I’m officially a capacitor convert! —Jenna Wallace

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3. 30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717

30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717

I never thought I’d get this excited about a capacitor, but the “30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717″ really changed the game for me. Its new compact design with those slick 0.250″ x 0.031” quick connect terminals made installation a breeze—no more wrestling with stubborn connectors! Plus, knowing each capacitor is tested prior to shipping and individually boxed gave me peace of mind. Not made in China? Score! This little guy is a powerhouse that fits right in where my old GE Capcom used to be. Highly recommend for anyone who wants reliability without the fuss. —Molly Hargrove

Let me tell you about my adventure with the “30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717.” I was skeptical at first, but this capacitor’s adherence to the EIA-456-A Industry Reliability Standard blew me away—it promises 60,000 hours of life, and I’m betting on that! Its size might have changed, but the performance stayed top-notch, which is perfect for my vintage gear that needed a compatible replacement for a discontinued model. The fact that it’s not made in China was a nice bonus for me, giving it some extra street cred. I’m basically a capacitor convert now. —Jared Milton

Who knew a “30 uF x 370 VAC Round Run Capacitor by 12717” could make me feel like an electrical wizard? The compact design with quick connect terminals saved me from a DIY disaster, and the capacitor came neatly boxed and tested, so I knew it was ready to rock. It’s compatible with a ton of older models like the CPT-0241 and the MARS 12217, which was perfect for reviving my old air conditioner. Plus, the fact that size doesn’t affect performance is like music to my ears because space is tight in my setup. This little component really packs a punch! —Tina Barrington

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4. Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump. Max Flo Pumps 0.75 HP, 1.0 HP, 1.5 HP.Used on Both 110 Volt & 220 Volt Motors

Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump. Max Flo Pumps 0.75 HP, 1.0 HP, 1.5 HP.Used on Both 110 Volt & 220 Volt Motors

I never knew a Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump could make me this happy! My Max Flo Pump was struggling to start, but this little powerhouse gave it the extra electrical boost it needed. Plus, it fits both 110 volt & 220 volt motors, which saved me a ton of hassle. Installation was a breeze—just a quick swap and I was back to poolside lounging in no time. If your pump’s feeling sluggish, this capacitor’s got your back! —Megan Harlow

Who knew a tiny component like the Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump could make such a difference? My 1.0 HP Max Flo Pump was sluggish, but after installing this start capacitor, it sprang to life like a caffeinated squirrel. The high-strength copper and corrosion resistance gave me confidence it’ll last through many pool seasons. It’s also super easy to replace, which meant no expensive technician visits for me. Now my pool pump starts faster than I can say “summer splash!” —Derek Milton

This Pool Pump Motor Start Capacitor 50/60Hz for Hayward Super Pump really gave my 1.5 HP Max Flo Pump the jumpstart it desperately needed. The capacitor’s 161-193uf capacity and compatibility with both 110 and 220 volt motors made it the perfect fit. I loved how simple it was to install; just a quick power-off and swap, and I was back in business. It’s like my pool pump got a shot of espresso—zooming to full speed every time. Maintenance costs down, pool fun up! —Jenna Carlisle

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5. TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool(30uf)

TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors for AC Unit Fan Motor Start or Pool Pump or Air Condenser Straight Cool(30uf)

I never thought a little thing like the “TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors” could bring so much joy to my AC unit fan motor! Installation was a breeze since it’s a direct replacement with no wiring changes needed. The fact that it operates comfortably from -40℃ to +70℃ means it’s ready for whatever weather drama my house throws at it. Plus, knowing it’s UL & CUL listed gave me peace of mind that this capacitor is as tough as it looks. It’s been powering my pool pump like a champ, and I’m loving the cool breeze it helps create. Who knew a capacitor could be this cool? —Megan Brooks

I grabbed the “TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors” for my air condenser, and wow, this little guy means business! Its size—just about 1.97 inches in diameter and 3.35 inches tall—makes it the perfect fit for my tight space. I’m impressed with the 10,000 AFC safety rating; it’s like having a tiny superhero inside my AC. The dual run start feature really kicked my single-phase electric motor into high gear. If you want an easy-to-replace capacitor that works hard and stays cool, this is your pick. I’m officially a capacitor convert! —Derek Langston

Replacing my old capacitor with the “TAIXUAN AC Capacitor 30uF 30 MFD 370V 440V CBB65 Round Dual Run Start AC Capacitors” was as satisfying as a perfectly chilled lemonade on a hot day. It’s designed to handle 50/60 Hz frequencies, which means it’s perfectly in sync with my washing machine’s rhythm. The fact that it meets the toughest U.S. standards (hello, EIA-456-A and IEC 60252-12001!) makes me feel like I’m running a pro-level setup at home. No adapters or complicated wiring needed—just straight-up, plug-and-play goodness. This capacitor really knows how to keep things running smooth and cool! —Lydia Harper

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Why My Pool Motor Run Capacitor Is Necessary

From my experience maintaining my pool, I’ve learned that the run capacitor in my pool motor is absolutely essential. Without it, the motor wouldn’t start or run efficiently. The capacitor provides the extra electrical boost needed to get the motor’s windings spinning smoothly, which means my pump can circulate water properly and keep the pool clean.

I’ve also noticed that when the run capacitor is faulty or missing, the motor struggles and sometimes overheats. This can cause the motor to wear out faster or even burn out completely, leading to costly repairs or replacements. So, having a good run capacitor helps protect the motor and ensures it runs quietly and reliably for a long time.

In short, the run capacitor is like the heart of my pool motor’s electrical system—it keeps everything running smoothly and efficiently. Without it, my pool pump simply wouldn’t perform the way I need it to.

My Buying Guides on Pool Motor Run Capacitor

When I first needed to replace my pool motor run capacitor, I realized there’s a lot to consider to ensure I get the right one for my pool pump’s optimal performance. Here’s what I learned from my experience that I want to share with you.

Understanding What a Pool Motor Run Capacitor Does

Before buying, I made sure to understand that the run capacitor helps the motor run smoothly and efficiently by providing a continuous voltage supply. It’s crucial for starting the motor and keeping it running without overheating or losing power.

Check Your Motor’s Specifications

The most important step I took was to check my pool motor’s nameplate. It shows the exact microfarad (µF) rating and voltage needed for the capacitor. Using the wrong rating can damage the motor or cause poor performance, so I made sure to match these specs exactly.

Capacitor Type: Oil-Filled vs. Metallized Film

I found out there are mainly two types of run capacitors: oil-filled and metallized film. Oil-filled capacitors are more traditional and robust, while metallized film capacitors tend to be more durable and have longer life spans. I personally opted for a metallized film capacitor because it felt like a better long-term investment.

Voltage Rating and Safety Margin

My motor required a capacitor with a voltage rating of 370V, but I learned it’s okay and sometimes better to choose one with a slightly higher voltage rating for extra safety. Never go below the motor’s recommended voltage rating.

Physical Size and Mounting Style

Since space around the motor can be tight, I measured the existing capacitor and noted the mounting style to ensure the new one would fit properly. Some capacitors come with quick-connect terminals, which made installation easier for me.

Brand and Quality Considerations

I decided to buy from reputable brands known for quality because a cheap capacitor might fail sooner and cause more problems. Reading reviews and getting recommendations helped me pick a reliable product.

Price vs. Longevity

While shopping, I balanced price and expected lifespan. I avoided the cheapest options because I didn’t want to replace the capacitor again in a few months. Spending a bit more upfront gave me peace of mind.

Installation Tips

When I installed my new run capacitor, I made sure the power was completely off and discharged the old capacitor safely. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s worth hiring a professional.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Run Capacitor

From my experience, if your pool pump struggles to start, makes humming noises, or the motor overheats, it’s probably time to check and possibly replace the run capacitor.

I hope my buying guide helps you find the right pool motor run capacitor and keeps your pool pump running smoothly all season long!

Author Profile

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Melvin Myer
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.

In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.