Nate Electrical Practice Exam 2025 - Free Electrical Practice Questions and Study Guide

The commonly observed effect of incorrect capacitor installation is an increased risk of equipment damage. When capacitors are improperly installed, they may not provide the required reactive power to the motor. This can lead to issues such as overheating, poorly functioning motors, and potential failure of electrical components. The imbalance caused by incorrect capacitance can generate excessive current or voltage that the equipment isn't designed to handle, which ultimately leads to premature wear or catastrophic failures in the system.

In contrast, options like instant motor start-up, enhanced energy efficiency, and improved motor functionality typically result from proper capacitor installation. When caps are installed correctly, they help provide the necessary phase shift for efficient motor operation, but incorrect installation can hinder this process, emphasizing the critical nature of proper installation practices in electrical systems.