Anyone who lives in a hot and humid climate understands the important role air conditioning plays in personal comfort. An air conditioning system that is malfunctioning can leave you without the ability to cool your home. The key to maintaining a comfortable interior is the ability to recognize potential cooling problems before they become too severe to repair. Watch for these three tell-tale indications that your air conditioner needs professional repairs.

1. Strange Sounds

The sound of your air conditioner turning on and off is something that you have probably grown accustomed to overtime. Changes in the sounds your cooling system makes should be cause for concern. Banging, clanking, or hissing sounds are all signs that your air conditioner is in distress. The cause of these strange sounds could be a loose component within the condenser. An experienced HVAC technician will be able to troubleshoot your cooling system to locate and eliminate the source of any strange sounds before permanent damage is sustained.

2. Strange Odors

Your sense of smell can be a valuable tool in assessing the condition of your air conditioning system. Musty odors could be an indication that there is a leak within your system's condenser. Leaks have the potential to fuel mold growth. Mold spores can be pushed through your air ducts and into your home. Breathing in these spores could lead to respiratory distress. Burning odors could be a sign that there is damaged wiring within your air conditioner. Damaged wiring could spark an electrical fire. It's critical that you have a professional repair your air conditioner quickly if you begin to smell strange odors while the system is operating.

3. Weak Airflow

You should monitor the force of the airflow coming through your vents when trying to maintain your cooling system. A decrease in airflow could be an indication that your air conditioner needs to be serviced by a professional. Dirty air filters and clogged condensers are typically to blame for changes in airflow. An HVAC technician can pinpoint the blockage and take action to restore proper airflow in your home.

Don't overlook any of the small warning signs that indicate your air conditioning system is in distress. Contact an AC repair professional as soon as you notice any strange sounds, odd odors, or a decrease in airflow so that you can repair your cooling system before it sustains any serious and permanent damage.