Now that the spring heat has arrived, have you noticed your air conditioning system exhibiting unusual behavior? Major problems that stop your system from working may be hard to ignore, but minor problems often seem less urgent. A system that short cycles or occasionally freezes can be frustrating, but it may still keep your home mostly cool.

Unfortunately, seemingly minor problems with air conditioning systems can often escalate quickly. Not only can these issues eventually cause your system to stop working, but relatively cheap failures can damage much more expensive components. If you've been putting off necessary repairs to your AC system, here are three ways that delaying these fixes may lead to a much higher bill.

1. Reduced Efficiency

Your air conditioning system's efficiency depends on each component working in unison with the rest of the system. Achieving your system's rated efficiency requires precise refrigerant pressure and good heat transfer at the evaporator and condenser coils. Problems with any part of the system can reduce its cooling capacity or cause the system to cycle on and off, increasing energy usage rapidly.

The longer you use your system with these problems, the more money you'll waste on excessive energy bills. Your system efficiency may worsen as the season progresses and your air conditioner struggles against warmer outdoor temperatures. Generally, any problem that causes your system to turn on and off too often or run non-stop is probably costing a substantial amount of money on your utility bills.

2. Electrical Issues 

The compressor is your air conditioner's most expensive component and the part that draws the greatest amount of electricity. When first starting, your compressor usually has the most substantial power draw, and refrigerant pressure problems can strain your compressor. An overworked compressor will draw even more current, potentially tripping your AC system's breaker.

While your breaker will protect your home from fires or damage, excess current draw can damage your air conditioning system's wiring or other components. The sudden surge of power may cause damage to your air conditioner's capacitor or contactor, shortening the life of these electrical components or forcing you to replace them.

3. Compressor Damage

The worst-case scenario for any air conditioner is damage to the compressor. Replacing a compressor can be extremely costly and, if your system isn't still under warranty, may be nearly as expensive as replacing the whole system. Unfortunately, refrigerant pressure issues can overwork the compressor, repeatedly causing it to overheat and shut down.

If your system frequently cycles on and off, your compressor is likely triggering its overheat protection and shutting off. While these protective mechanisms can help avoid immediate catastrophic damage, continuing to use your system will place it under more strain. Contacting an HVAC technician is the best way to get your system operating efficiently again and avoid serious damage to your compressor.

To find out more, contact AC system repair services today.