The air conditioner of your car is not an integral part of your engine's operation, but if it malfunctions and no longer works properly, it can be extremely disruptive to your driving nevertheless. Understanding some of the earlier warning signs associated with an air conditioner that is in need of being replaced can help you determine when you should head to a mechanic to have the unit serviced.

Bad Smells

If you notice that there is a strong, unpleasant smell that permeates your car and seems to get worse when your air conditioning system is turned on, you likely have mold growth in the vents. This can happen when your air conditioner is not used for a long period of time, or when enough condensation is able to accumulate within the system. Mold growth is more than an unpleasant smell to deal with while driving: exposure to mold spores can cause infections and aggravate existing respiratory conditions, so it can be a serious health concern if you don't have the system cleaned out.

Odd Noises

Another indication that there is something wrong with your air conditioner is if you notice a rattling or banging noise coming from somewhere under the hood when you turn the system on. This can be caused by a loose belt or an otherwise damaged component, and if left alone, the problem can quickly grow worse, often to the point where the internal piece breaks completely and leaves your air conditioner unable to properly function.

Leaking Water

You should also keep an eye on the space immediately underneath the dashboard for signs of leaking water. This is a common but serious sign that there is something wrong with your air conditioner, as it points to a clog or damage to the drain hose, preventing the ambient moisture within your vehicle from being vented out of your car through the normal operation of your air conditioner. Leaking water can contribute to mold growth, as mentioned above, not to mention actually damaging the surfaces in your vehicle that are exposed to the leaks.

Air Flow Issues

Finally, the last serious indication that you should have a professional take a look at your air conditioning system is if you find that there is not enough air flowing from your vents. This can take the form of a weak or no airflow, which points to some sort of mechanical damage to the fan, or air that is warm, which points to a refrigerant leak. In either case, a professional will have to take a look at your system to get everything working normally again.

For more information, contact a company like Modern Auto Air.