Routine home maintenance includes regular cleaning of your dryer vent. Although it may seem easy to clean your dryer vent yourself, it is not a good idea to use a vacuum and call it a day. DIY dryer vent cleaning can lead to fire hazards. You could accidentally compact the lint and blockage. It is a good idea to hire a professional to clean your dryer vent thoroughly.
Why clean my dryer vent?
Lint can build up in difficult-to-reach places as you use your dryer. It can not only reduce dryer efficiency but can also lead to a fire in your home. A dryer that has a partially or completely blocked vent will have to work harder in order to dry your clothes and remove any moisture. This can lead to dryer overheating. This can increase your monthly energy bills.
To remove all dust and debris from your dryer vent, a professional will clean it. You may not be able to spot a problem or compact the lint properly, making it worse and giving you a false sense of security.
Signs that your dryer vent needs cleaning
Dryer vents that are dirty can pose a danger. There are many signs that your dryer vent is dirty. These are signs that your dryer vent needs to be cleaned.
- Clothes dry slower
- After a cycle, the dryer feels hot to the touch.
- After a cycle, your laundry room will be hot.
- The dryer releases a burning smell
- The exhaust vent is not blowing evenly.
- After each cycle, excess lint is found in the lint trap
- There is debris around the dryer vent
How Often Should Your Dryer Vent Be Cleaned?
Even for light usage, dryer vents should be cleaned at least once per year. This will prevent lint buildup in dryers and help ensure dryers are working efficiently.
You should clean your dryer more often in some homes. For example, if you have three children and a dog, your dryer is likely to be used a lot. To prevent any debris from building up and posing a fire hazard, it might be smart to increase your cleaning frequency to at least two, three, or four times per year.
- There are other ways to prevent a blocked dryer vent
- You can prevent dryer vent damage by taking proactive steps.
- Before every load, empty the lint trap
- Allow your dryer to cool down for at least 15-20 minutes between loads
- Replace the flexible vent pipe you have with a metal one
- Place the dryer near an exterior wall
- Instead of dryer sheets, use liquid fabric softener
- Check the vent pipe regularly for debris
These tips should not be considered an alternative to professional cleanings. No matter how careful you are, lint and other debris will accumulate. It is important to schedule an annual vent cleaning to prevent clogs.