For most of us, doing laundry is likely a weekly task—but when was the last time you had your washer or dryer cleaned? If your answer is, “Not for a very long time,” you’re not alone, but it is something you should make part of your routine. Regularly cleaning your washing machine is important, but a well-maintained dryer is essential for the safety and efficiency of your home.
It may seem like a small, inconsequential part of your laundry routine, but a clogged dryer duct can have serious consequences. Here’s what you need to know about the risks, signs, and solutions for dealing with clogged dryer vents.
What Is a Dryer Vent?
First, it’s important to understand the purpose of a dryer vent and its location on your machine. A dryer vent is a tube that takes the moisture from your clothes or linens outside your house while drying.
The vent is different from the lint trap. The lint trap is typically inside the machine and located near your dryer’s door, while the vent is attached behind the machine and connected to the wall. Think of the lint trap as your dryer’s first line of defense against buildup.
During the drying cycle, lint from your laundry can slip past the lint trap and begin to build up in your dryer vent, even if you clean off your lint catcher before every load.
There are a few different types of dryer vents and depending on where your machine is located in your home, one type of vent might be better suited than another.
What Are The Risks of a Blocked Dryer Vent?
Fire Hazard
According to the National Fire Protection Association, around 14,000 home structure fires involve clothes dryers and blocked vents are one of the leading causes. Lint buildup in a dryer vent is highly flammable, creating a significant fire risk if left unchecked.
Higher Electricity Bills
A clogged vent forces your dryer to work harder and longer to dry clothes, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. While higher electricity bills are not a safety hazard, it’s still not ideal to spend your money on something that can be avoided with regular maintenance.
Damaged Clothes
Clogged vents restrict airflow and cause your dryer to overheat. This can make your clothes wear out faster, shrink prematurely, or cause overall damage to your clothes.
What Are The Signs of a Clogged Dryer Vent?
There are a few different warning signs that you have a clogged dryer vent, once you notice any of them, address the issue quickly. Here are the primary things to look out for:
- Your clothes are taking an unusually long time to dry.
- The exterior of your dryer becomes excessively hot while it’s running.
- There is a burning or musty smell coming from the dryer.
- Lint or debris is accumulating around the dryer or vent opening.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to deep clean your dryer vents.
How Can You Prevent a Clog From Happening?
Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining your dryer vent. Be sure to clean the lint trap after every cycle. Taking a proactive approach and removing lint from the trap before starting a new drying cycle reduces buildup in your machine and vents over time.
Additionally, avoid overloading your dryer. An overloaded dryer can force lint into the vent. straining the system, and causing unnecessary wear and tear to your machine.
How Can You Properly Clean Your Dryer Vent?
While regular maintenance helps, professional cleaning is the best way to ensure your dryer vent stays clear and safe. Professionals have the tools and knowledge to clean your vent system thoroughly, removing all lint and debris.
DIY cleaning can sometimes be risky if not done correctly, so trusting professionals minimizes potential hazards. It’s recommended to schedule professional cleaning at least once a year.
Book a Des Moines Area Dryer Service
Springer Floor Care provides expert dryer vent cleaning services to ensure your system is functioning efficiently and safely. Don’t wait for a clog to become a hazard—contact us today to schedule your professional dryer vent cleaning!