Your air conditioning (AC) unit is part of a very intricate system that goes a lot deeper than you may think. The condenser, evaporator, compressor, and expansion valve make up the core of the setup, but none of the cool air generated by these parts would be able to reach you without the help of the vents. Each vent pumps out cold, refreshing air all over your home, creating a comfortable environment that is quite inviting. However, along with air the vents also conduct quite a bit of dust and debris as well. If these items aren't cleared away you could be breathing in oxygen that is far less than ideal. Here are a few signs to look for when you are trying to determine if it's time to schedule an air conditioner vent cleaning.

Watch For Clouds Of Dust

One of the clearest ways for you to tell when you need to have your vents cleaned is to pay attention to what happens when you first turn on your AC. Do you notice that a cloud of dust or puff of smoke instantly appears as soon as the unit clicks on? This is a surefire sign that your vents are clogged up and need to be cleaned immediately.

It's so easy to overlook some of the more obvious signs of trouble. It's important to have this kind of situation evaluated by a professional because you never know just how dirty your vents actually are. In addition to dirt, there could also be a mechanical issue causing the smoke. This places you and your family in a danger and should be taken very seriously.

The Outer Condition Of Your Vents Is A Clue

You can also tell a bit about the condition of your vents by observing the way the outside of each grill looks. Are the vents lined with dust that seems to grow thicker by the day? This could be happening because the inside of the ventilation shaft is so coated with dirt that the debris that's being blown out sticks to the vent before it exits the unit.

Cleaning your AC vents could dramatically change the quality of your indoor air, reducing the number of toxic allergens and making it possible for each person in the household to breathe so much easier. Set up your first vent cleaning appointment and experience the difference as soon as possible.