If your air conditioning unit is having problems, it could be caused by the compressor reaching the end of its lifespan, but how long is that? Typically, an AC compressor will last 10-15 years with proper maintenance before they start to fail.
In addition to maintenance, there are also other factors that can affect the lifespan of your device, including refrigerant levels, system workload, the climate you live in, and others.
Let’s take a closer look at the most important component in your AC system, what it does, and when it needs to be replaced.
Quick Takeaways
- In ideal circumstances, most AC compressors last 10–15 years
- The compressor is the heart of the air conditioning system
- Low refrigerant and poor maintenance can shorten compressor life
- Strange noises, warm air, and hard starting might indicate compressor problems
- Replacing an aging AC system is usually cheaper than replacing a compressor alone
How Long Do AC Compressors Last?
With proper maintenance, AC compressors typically last between 10 and 15 years. Their lifespan is typically the same as the overall unit itself, because the cost of replacing a compressor is usually comparable to the cost of replacing the entire unit.
What Does an AC Compressor Do?
The compressor is an essential component of any AC unit because it makes the entire thing work. It compresses and pressurizes the refrigerant, which then circulates throughout the unit so it can distribute cold air from the vents.
Without a compressor, the refrigerant just flows in a loop (or doesn’t flow at all), and no cold air can be produced. The result is a very high electrical bill caused by a unit that doesn’t do its job correctly.
What Causes AC Compressors to Fail?
A failing AC compressor could be caused by several things. The most common include:
Low Refrigerant Levels
If the AC unit doesn’t have enough refrigerant, it’ll work overtime to get the room to the proper temperature. This causes the unit to work too hard and can significantly shorten the lifespan of the compressor.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Dirty coils cause the unit to work harder, which reduces efficiency, lowers the lifespan of the AC unit, and raises your home energy bill.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues like frayed or corroded wires can disrupt the flow of electricity to the unit. This can result in overcharging, undercharging, and can present a fire hazard, as well.
Poor Maintenance
A poorly maintained unit will break down faster because of dirt, grime, corrosion, and other factors. Proper maintenance makes sure everything inside is clean and working at peak efficiency.
Excessive Wear and Tear
A unit that operates 24 hours a day for long periods of time will naturally tend to fail faster than one that is used only occasionally. Although long run times may be necessary depending on your circumstances, it will inevitably lead to decreased performance and a lower lifespan for your unit.
Signs Your AC Compressor May Be Failing
The biggest signs of a failing compressor include:
- Warm air from vents
- Loud noises
- Hard starting
- Frequent circuit breaker trips
- Long cooling cycles
- Reduced cooling performance
How to Extend the Life of an AC Compressor
The most important thing you can do to extend your AC compressor’s lifespan is to schedule regular, professional maintenance. Finding issues early and correcting them is essential for making sure the unit lasts as long as possible.
You’ll also want to change your air filters regularly, as a dirty filter can reduce performance. Outdoor units tend to get dirtier faster than indoor ones, so they should be cleaned regularly.
If you find ice outside the unit or other signs of refrigerant leaks or electrical issues, they should be taken care of as soon as possible. If it’s a minor issue, it can be fixed before the unit suffers too much damage.
Should You Repair or Replace a Bad AC Compressor?
Sometimes it’s better to have a compressor repaired, and other times it’s better to get a full replacement. Here’s how to decide what’s right for your home:
When Compressor Replacement Makes Sense
If the unit is still under warranty and everything will be covered by the manufacturer, you should absolutely get a new compressor. It’s also a good idea if the rest of the unit is in good shape and relatively new, or if you’re on a budget and don’t wish to spend the extra money for a brand new system.
When a New AC Installation Is the Better Investment
In most cases, it’s better to get a new AC unit installed, especially if your unit is older (i.e., approaching 10-15 years since installation) or if it’s been damaged for a while. Compressor issues can cause faults in other parts of the machine, which means it’s better to get the whole thing replaced.
How Compressor Problems Affect Energy Efficiency
An issue with your AC unit’s compressor makes the device significantly less energy efficient in several ways. First, it increases the amount of energy consumed by working harder and running for longer periods of time, which reduces cooling performance. The result is a faulty unit that can skyrocket your energy bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my AC compressor is bad?
Common signs of a failing compressor include odd noises or smells, rooms that don’t reach the proper temperature, burning smells, and hot air coming out of the unit instead of cold.
Can an AC compressor last 20 years?
Most AC compressors last about 10 to 15 years, but they can occasionally reach 20 years if they aren’t used for long periods of time (i.e., if the home is only occupied during the winter).
Is it worth replacing an AC compressor?
Generally speaking, it’s better and cheaper to replace the entire unit instead of just the compressor. It’s the most important part, which means the cost of a new compressor is usually so high that it’s more cost-effective to replace the whole thing.
What is the most common cause of compressor failure?
The most common cause of compressor failure is improper maintenance, because most other issues would be detected during a maintenance cycle and stopped before the compressor failed.
Can low refrigerant damage a compressor?
Yes, if there isn’t enough refrigerant in your AC unit, the compressor has to work harder to achieve the proper temperature. This can severely damage the compressor and lead to a failing unit.
How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?
It depends on the size of the unit, but generally speaking, a new compressor can run anywhere from $800 to $2,300 or more. This is why it’s recommended to simply buy a new unit when possible.
Keep Your Cool with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning of Orlando
If your compressor is nearing the end of its lifespan, the team at One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning can help you evaluate your options. We provide professional AC installation services in Orlando, FL, and the surrounding communities, helping homeowners upgrade to reliable, energy-efficient cooling systems built for Florida’s climate.
Whether you’re dealing with recurring compressor problems or an aging air conditioner, our team can recommend the right solution for your home. Remember: at One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re always on time, or you don’t pay a dime!