How Long Should an Air Conditioner Compressor Last?

Few elements of your air conditioner are more important than the compressor. It plays a vital role in the cooling process and ensures your unit operates optimally throughout the dog days of summer. However, compressors don’t last forever and will eventually give out, jeopardizing the entire air conditioner.

So, how long should an air conditioner compressor last in Bozeman, Montana? Premier Systems is here to teach you more about your AC unit’s compressor and its life expectancy.

Premier Systems is Bozeman’s expert AC maintenance company. If you need professional heating and cooling services in Bozeman or the surrounding area, contact Premier Systems.

What Is an Air Conditioner Compressor?

Compressors are essential mechanisms that help air conditioners remove heat from air before cooling it and distributing the air throughout your home. The unit’s refrigerant turns to gas right before it enters the compressor. As the refrigerant enters, the compressor compresses it (hence the name) to heat it before going through the condensing coils that dissipate the heat outside. 

In short, your unit’s compressor works with various other mechanisms to eliminate heat and generate cool air that keeps your home comfortable during hot days. 

Think of the compressor as the heart of your air conditioner. When the compressor breaks down, so does the rest of your unit. Every air conditioner must have a functional compressor to operate.

How Long Do Compressors Last?

So, how long should an air conditioner compressor last?

Most compressors have the same or similar life expectancies as traditional AC units. They typically break down after 15 years but can last longer with proper maintenance.

Many people believe replacing their air conditioner’s compressor is more cost-effective once it gives out. However, compressors are the most expensive part of an air conditioner, making it more economical to replace the entire unit.

Elements That Affect an Air Conditioner Compressor’s Lifespan

Several factors affect your compressor’s longevity and can significantly increase or decrease its lifespan. Below are a few elements that impact your AC unit’s compressor’s longevity.

1. Regular Maintenance

Maintaining your air conditioner’s compressor is a fantastic way to extend its lifespan while taking your unit’s efficiency to extraordinary new heights. Although it’s best to hire regular professional servicing a few times a year, homeowners can perform numerous tasks to keep their compressors in excellent condition.

The following are some minor AC compressor maintenance tasks you should perform regularly:

• Change the air filter every month.
• Clean the unit’s evaporator coils.
• Remove debris, foliage, or pollutants in or around the air conditioner.
• Spray the unit’s exterior with a garden hose to eradicate dirt.
• Assess and clean the air conditioning system’s refrigerant lines and the surrounding insulation to ensure it remains in good condition.
• Keep the unit’s drain lines clean and clear.

Proper maintenance will ensure your air conditioner operates impeccably year-round while diminishing the chances of malfunctions. 

2. Overuse and Underuse

Most homeowners know that excessive AC use can increase unit wear and tear. However, many people don’t know that underuse can have a similar effect.

AC system compressors consist of multiple pistons and moving parts that help transport refrigerant through lines. When the moving parts stay stagnant for too long, they seize up and, eventually, break down. 

Most AC specialists recommend turning on your AC unit now and then to ensure optimal operations. Although you might not need your AC during the winter, turning it on for a few minutes every few weeks will preserve the compressor and prevent it from giving out prematurely. You can also top the compressor motor with oil to keep it in shape during Montana’s colder months.

Just remember to use the correct compressor oil type if you plan on topping your unit’s compressor motor.

3. Refrigerant Leaks

Keeping your unit’s refrigerant levels full is essential to ensure efficiency and prevent it from breaking down. However, sometimes AC units leak, causing the refrigerant to seep out of the unit and hinder operations. Always fix refrigerant leaks swiftly to keep your unit functioning and prevent compressor damage. 

Contact Premier Systems for Exceptional Heating and Cooling Services in Bozeman, Montana

If your AC unit experiences an issue and leaves you asking, “How long should an air conditioner compressor last?” contact Premier Systems. Our team will help persevere your compressor’s lifespan while teaching you how to change a dirty air conditioner filter. 

Give Premier Systems a call at (406) 708-4601 to book your service appointment in Bozeman, Montana, today!