Actually, we had tried as an evaluation or case study as part of our cost reduction program, in our 7.5hp airconditioning compressor a 3 mins stop and 12 mins run or 4 times stop per hour hoping that we could reduce energy consumption on it at around 20%. We did it because the compressor was no longer controlled by thermostat because we can not meet the set temperature. A sort of undersized with respect to the room area. We got a significant reduction on energy cost, though actual temperature slightly rose up, but only to find out that we shorten the service life of the compressor. We replace the compressor after two months and our assumption is that it was caused by 4 times stop per hour. The compressor by the way is connected direct on line. Like DickDV said, it might have been different if it were started in reduced voltage or using vfd. But I just dont know if it is ok to use vfd in such kind of refrigerant compressor (copeland sealed type, 7.5hp)