Why it matters to you
With about 111 days a year at or above 90°F at IAH, Greater Houston compressors log long run hours, and a compressor failure is often where the repair-or-replace decision starts. Older systems built for R-22, whose production ended January 1, 2020, raise extra refrigerant-supply questions when the compressor fails.
Practical guidance
Warning signs include an outdoor unit that hums without starting, repeated breaker trips or warm air at the vents; turn the system off at the thermostat and call a licensed technician. Ask for the diagnosis in writing, including the refrigerant type and the system's age.