Delaying or neglecting necessary AC repair can lead to a cascade of severe and expensive consequences. The most immediate impact is a rapid Increase in Energy Bills, as a malfunctioning unit struggles to operate, consuming excessive electricity to maintain inadequate cooling. You will also experience Decreased Comfort and Unreliable Cooling, with rooms becoming unpleasantly warm or humid, making your living or working environment unbearable. Ignoring a problem inevitably leads to Catastrophic System Failure, where minor issues escalate into major component breakdowns—like compressor failure—which are incredibly costly to fix or necessitate a complete AC replacement. This also often results in Compromised Indoor Air Quality, as dirty or struggling units cannot filter air effectively, potentially circulating allergens and pollutants.