One weekend with a malfunctioning air conditioner in the middle of the summer is enough to convince residents of how much they take their AC system for granted. Sudden air conditioner failure is rare; most systems give off subtle clues that things aren’t right, giving you ample time to call a professional for a tune up or repair.

Here are some signs you don’t want to ignore.

You Can’t Get Comfortable

• Do you find you’re fidgeting with the thermostat more than ever to dial in the perfect temperature to keep you comfortable? If your system struggles to keep you cool, it’s a sign that your system needs to be checked out by a professional. Sometimes, it’s a problem with the thermostat and in other cases, it could be leaking or low refrigerant.

Strange Noises

• If your AC unit begins making sounds you’ve never heard before, such as squealing, grinding, or rattling, it’s a surefire indication that something isn’t right. An experienced professional can typically diagnose the problem quickly and repair it before it causes more significant problems down the road.

Foul Odors

• The air coming out of a well-functioning air conditioner shouldn’t emit any odor at all. So, if you smell a burning or musty odor, it’s a sign you should contact a professional as soon as possible for an inspection.

Electrical Problems

• Flickering lights or breakers tripping when your AC kicks on isn’t something you should ever ignore.

Your air conditioner is a complex machine and it’s not one you should try to fix yourself. Hiring a professional AC contractor is the best way to ensure the system is correctly repaired.