The starting capacitor provides the initial kick to the single-phase motor of slicers and meat grinders: a worn-out or damaged capacitor is a common cause of a motor that "hums" but doesn't start.

How to choose the correct part: check the capacitance in mF (microfarad, sometimes shown as µF — same unit) — available from 2.5 to 50 mF — and the voltage (some models require 400V). The correct capacitance is the one shown on the original capacitor or on the motor's rating plate.

Symptoms of a capacitor that needs replacing: motor humming without starting, starting only if helped to turn manually, or overheating quickly.

For other electronic spare parts go back to Electronic Spare Parts.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a capacitor with a different capacitance than the original?
No, a capacitance that's too low won't give the motor enough of a kick, while one that's too high can damage it: always use the value shown on the original component.

How do I know if it's the capacitor or the motor that's the problem?
If the motor hums but doesn't start, and turns normally when helped by hand, the capacitor is the main suspect.