How Dryer Vent Cleaning Prevents Home Fires

A dryer vent could be part of your home that is so everyday, so ordinary, and so out-of-sight that it may not ever be on your radar. As long as everything is working correctly, what is there to think about, anyway? Well, keeping dryer vents clean is crucial for the safety and efficiency of every home. At Clean Air America we’re here to help prevent the worst case scenario with our professional dryer vent cleaning services. Read on to learn more about how this valuable service can help to make your home a safer place.

Why Does A Dryer Vent Need To Be Cleaned?

Every load of laundry that you do will shed fibers and create lint–some more than others. The lint trap in an easily-accessible area on the front of your dryer is the first line of defense against these particles. Most lint will end up here, and should be cleared out as frequently as after every dryer load, if possible. However, not all lint particles will be caught in the trap. Some lint will continue through the dryer vent system and lead to buildup within the walls of the vent hose or pipe. Once there is even a thin layer of accumulated lint, it will attract more, and the level of buildup can quickly become exponentially worse. This can lead to hazardous accumulation of flammable material that is continually in contact with hot air. 

Built up lint and debris restrict airflow and can lead to the dryer overheating, which can, in turn, cause the accumulated lint to ignite. So fire is an obvious concern, but it isn’t the only reason that dryer vent cleaning is a good idea.

Getting your dryer vent cleaned is essential for several reasons. Clogged dryer vents:

• are a common cause of home fires

• cause your dryer to operate less efficiently, wasting both time and energy

• decrease efficiency and increase both energy bills and wear and tear

• can shorten the lifespan of your dryer

• allow moisture to accumulate in your home, leading to mold and mildew issues

How Can You Prevent Dryer Lint Fires?

The first thing to do is to ensure that your dryer is installed correctly and that appropriate venting materials were used. This will allow lint to flow where it needs to in order to be cleaned out. Clean out the lint filter/trap as well as you can, after each and every dryer load. Do regular visual inspections of the dryer vent and where it exits your home. Check for an external buildup of dust and lint, and keep an eye out for blockages. If you are able to remove the screen or cover plate, do that and then clean as much lint as you can. For areas that are not within easy reach, opt for professional dryer vent cleaning services. 

Even if you are unable to easily access the dryer vent for a visual inspection, you can also pay attention to potential warning signs:

• It takes longer than usual for your clothes to dry

• The dryer or clothes become excessively hot during a cycle

• There is a burning smell while the dryer is running

• There is an unusual amount of lint around the dryer or on your clothes

• The vent cover doesn’t open properly while the dryer is running

With regular maintenance and safe usage practices you can prevent dryer vent fires and create a cleaner and safer home.

What To Expect From Dryer Vent Cleaning

Professional dryer vent cleaning is a detailed process that results in a thoroughly cleaned ventilation system. Technicians will first work to completely inspect the dryer vent and the surrounding area, assessing the level of lint buildup and identifying any additional issues. 

They will then get to work, using specialized cleaning equipment and tools–including high-powered vacuums, brushes, and other devices–to remove any and all lint, debris, and obstructions from your home’s dryer vent. Following a thorough cleaning, the area will be inspected a second time, to ensure that all buildup has been removed and that the vent is now clear and safe. Technicians will also provide you with some simple, actionable tips for everyday use and maintenance along with best practices and recommendations for the most efficient use of your dryer vent. You can expect the entire process to take around an hour or so, depending on the length and condition of the dryer vent.

Plan to schedule dryer vent cleaning at least once a year, depending on the level of use of your dryer and the amount of buildup you’re noticing. If you need more regular maintenance, it’s well worth it in order to prevent a house fire and provide your family with a clean and safe living environment. Not to mention the preservation of your appliance and potential reduction in energy use. Dryer vent cleaning truly is one of the easiest ways to create a positive change in the safety and efficiency of your home.

Clean Air America Is Your Source For Dryer Vent Cleaning In Cleveland, Akron and Canton

You don’t want to wait for a crisis to start thinking about maintaining your home’s dryer vent. The best time to take action is right now, before you start dealing with the telltale signs of a clogged or severely impaired dryer vent. Prevent a home fire, help your appliance last longer, and potentially save a little on your energy bills. At Clean Air America we are your air duct cleaning and dryer vent cleaning experts. We know our stuff and are dedicated to helping you maintain a clean and safe home. Give us a call today to schedule your next dryer vent cleaning appointment, or get a free estimate online!