As a general rule of thumb, electric motor start capacitors can be replaced with a micro-farad or mfd rating equal to or up to 20% higher F than the original capacitors serving the motor. The voltage rating on the replacementCapacitor must be equal to or greater than the original.

What happens if you use a higher MFD capacitor?

The higher the MFD of the capacitor, the greater the stored energy and the greater the start winding amperage. If the capacitor is completely failed with zero capacitance, it is the same as having an open start winding.

Can I use a higher capacitance capacitor?

Yes, you can replace a capacitor with one of a slightly higher uF, but try to stay as close as possible to the original number and don't go lower. Replacing a capacitor is sometimes referred to as “recapping a circuit board,” and it's important to match the new capacitor up to the old one.