![room air conditioner in garage](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FH15JUN_559_06_003.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Blowing Warm Air
If your air conditioner is suddenly blowing warm air instead of cold, that can indicate a range of issues, including a broken compressor or a refrigerant leak.
![Shutterstock 159164966 air conditioner repair man hvac](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Untitled3.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Slow to Turn On
It shouldn’t take several minutes for your unit to kick on after your adjust your thermostat. A delayed cooling could mean it’s time to call a repair technician.
![Male technician fixing air conditioner indoors](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/shutterstock_795907084-e1620072151247.jpg)
Insufficient Air Flow
Much like a unit that takes a long time to start blowing air, it’s a troubling sign if your air conditioner isn’t blowing enough cool air. If you notice a stark difference from your unit’s typical capacity, consider calling a repair specialist.
![old-leaky-windows](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/08-old-leaky-windows-Sneaky-Ways-Your-Home-is-Draining-Your-Bank-Account_542551633-avtk-1-e1620072332873.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Water Leaks
Leaks are never a good sign, whether with your plumbing or your A/C unit. Small amounts could be just condensation. A large pool or discoloration could indicate a more serious issue, like a refrigerant leak.
![fin comb for air conditioner maintenance](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/FH11MAY_518_06_067.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Unusual Odors
A foul smell coming from your unit could mean lots of things, none of them good — things like mold, mildew or a burned out wire. Those issues call for immediate repair.
![Two people checking out an air conditioner](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ASC2-07337-1-scaled-e1626805305788.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Frequent Repairs
This one seems obvious, but if you’re making frequent repair calls, your air conditioner probably doesn’t have a lot of life left in it. At a certain point, you’re better off buying a new unit than funding continued repairs.
![Sweat stains](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/shutterstock_166109384-Sweat.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
High Humidity Levels
High humidity in your home can be especially frustrating if you live in a humid climate. Don’t wait to fix the issue — too much humidity can lead to mold or mildew problems.
![fix air conditioner](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/How-to-Double-The-Life-of-Your-Air-Conditioner-shutterstock_306612137.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
Frequent Cycling
Another troubling sign for your air conditioning unit is if it is constantly starting and stopping. A properly functioning unit should blow steady air, then turn off once the room reaches the right temperature.
![bills mail](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/shutterstock_1834280.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
High Electricity Bills
Keep a close eye on your utility bills, especially if you rely on auto draft. A major spike might be attributed to the transition out of winter, but it also might mean your unit is not functioning properly. Check your statement from previous years to compare.
![window air conditioner](https://www.familyhandyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/shutterstock_338170610.jpg?fit=696%2C696)
It’s Old
Even the nicest, most expensive unit won’t last forever. Your air conditioner should last 10 to 15 years, depending on the model/brand and proper maintenance. If you’re pushing that timeline, it might be time to buy a new unit soon.