Why does my AC compressor run continuously and never shut off?
AC compressors can keep running constantly even after replacing parts like relays and pressure switches, while failing to reach the target temperature. This endless cycle prevents the system from cycling off properly, leaving the AC stuck running continuously without cooling the space down further.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Change the air filter
In their words
Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.
“Any way to fix a/c compressor don't stop ? Replace 3 time my relay. 3 time the presostat. (Sensor on the high side)”source ↗
“Now it cools from 76° down to 72° fine, but it won’t reach 71° anymore. It just stays at 72°, and sometimes even goes back up to 73° while the AC keeps running continuously.”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
- 8Why does my car A/C compressor keep turning on and off?
- 3Why does the outdoor AC fan stop while the compressor keeps running?
- 4Why does my HVAC fan run continuously and blow hot air?
- 4Washing machine runs continuously on all settings
- 5Why does my condensate pump keep running continuously?
- 3Why does my outside AC unit keep running when turned off?