Homeowners know the importance of cleaning gutters, swapping air filters, and properly maintaining their lawn. But how much time do you spend tending to your dryer vent? If you’re anything like the average homeowner, the answer is probably, “not a whole lot.” According to the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Data Center, almost 15,000 structural fires occur each year due to an issue with the clothes dryer. Clogged, dirty dryer vents cause 80% of them.
Below are some warning signs that it is time to get professional dryer vent cleaning:
Clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, often taking two or three cycles to be fully dry.
Clothes give off a strange, burning smell. This could signify your dryer vent cannot ventilate the warm air out of the appliance properly.
The laundry room feels excessively hot when your dryer runs. Again, the culprit could be a clogged vent that doesn’t let warm air escape.
Risks of a Clogged Dryer Vent
Issues caused by a clogged dryer vent include:
Fires. Lint, a highly flammable material from your clothes, can build up inside the dryer vent.
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. When the dryer vent is clogged, CO gases aren’t able to escape. They build up inside the vent and could seep out into the laundry room and other areas throughout the home.
Wear and tear on the dryer. When it takes several cycles to get your clothes dry, your dryer undergoes a lot of strain.
Staggering utility bills. A dryer that runs more often than it should draws a significant amount of power. This usage will be reflected on your monthly utility bills.
Benefits of Dryer Vent Cleaning
We recommend having your dryer vent cleaned at least once a year. If you have a larger family or do more laundry than the average household, you may need it cleaned more frequently. Here’s what you can expect from professional dryer vent cleaning:
For more information about our dryer vent cleaning or other electrical services, contact Curtis Total Service today!