As homeowners, we often forget about the maintenance of our appliances until it’s too late. One such area that often gets neglected is the dryer vent. A dirty dryer vent is not only unsightly, but it also poses a significant risk to your home and family.
You should call a professional to clean your dryer vents as soon as you notice a change in the consistency of your laundry cycles.
Some indications that your dryer vent is dirty are excess lint in the lint trap, overly hot clothes after a cycle is complete and a musty smell that lingers on your clothes. The worst-case scenario is that your dryer can catch fire, leaving you to foot the bill. You usually have time before this happens, but you shouldn’t wait too long before investing in a professional cleaning service.
In this post, we’ll discuss the signs of a dirty dryer vent, the dangers of clogged vents, and when to call a professional versus when you can DIY. With this knowledge, you should have a better idea of how to keep your dryer vents functioning and how to keep your family safe.
Signs Your Dryer Vent Is Dirty and Should Be Cleaned
Your dryer vent will need cleaning at least twice a year. If this doesn’t occur, you might notice some signs. One of the most obvious signs is when your clothes take longer than usual to dry. This is because a clogged vent restricts airflow, making it harder for your dryer to do its job effectively. Another sign is when your dryer feels hot or emits a burning smell. These smells can become trapped in the laundry room and actually affect the health of those in proximity.
The Dangers of Clogged Dryer Vents
Clogged dryer vents are a serious fire hazard. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2010 and 2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 15,970 home fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year. These fires can occur when lint accumulates in the dryer vent and restricts the flow of air, causing the dryer to overheat and potentially ignite the lint. In some cases, the fire can spread quickly throughout the house, causing extensive damage and putting the lives of the occupants at risk.
To prevent these dangerous situations, it’s essential to have your dryer vent cleaned regularly by a professional to ensure that it’s free of lint and other debris.
This simple step can go a long way in keeping your home safe and preventing costly and potentially life-threatening disasters.
When To Call a Professional VS When You Can DIY
While cleaning your dryer vent yourself is tempting, it’s best to call a professional. Professionals have the experience, knowledge, and equipment to thoroughly clean your dryer vent and ensure it’s free of lint and debris. Additionally, a professional dryer vent cleaning service will identify potential hazards and make sure your dryer is working efficiently.
If you’re in the Metro Detroit area, consider calling our team at Unique Air Duct Cleaning. With nearly three decades of experience in air duct cleaning, our hardworking team will provide you with efficient service and strong expertise. We use the latest equipment to thoroughly clean your air ducts as well as your dryer vent, ensuring your home is safe from fire hazards. Contact us today to schedule your air duct or dryer vent cleaning and experience the peace of mind that comes with a clean and safe home.