Dryer Vent Cleaning FAQs

Keep Your Dryer Vents Clear And Your Home Safe From Dryer Fires.

Laundry is a part of life, and so are issues with laundry appliances. While there are some things you cannot control, regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent many problems from occurring. Did you know, dryer vent cleaning can not only increase your dryer’s efficiency but also help prevent dangerous fires from developing as a result of build-up? Despite being a serious cause for maintenance, most of us may not know much about dryer vents at all. If you are wondering about the state of your current dryer vents, we have gathered some of the most frequently asked questions to help give you any information you might be looking for.

Q: Why Are My Clothes Taking So Long To Dry?

A: If you have noticed that your dryer is suddenly not performing as well as it used to, you might be surprised to find that the dryer itself isn’t the culprit. Of course, there are a number of reasons a particular load didn’t dry as quickly as you had hoped; for example, a set of heavy blankets will probably need more time than a usual load to fully finish drying. But assuming this isn’t a one-time incident, and your dryer is generally new and in good working order, the dryer vent is much more likely to be causing issues with drying time.

Any number of objects could be lodged within your vent, causing vent disrepair. Blockages can occur from things such as bird nests or, more often, lint accumulation. Even an improperly configured venting can be a possible cause of decreased dryer function. A professional cleaning expert can help determine the exact cause of your issue and recommend possible solutions. This not only helps you dry your clothes at greater speed but also protects you from potential fire hazards.

Q: Can I Just Clean The Dryer Vent By Myself?

A: While we cannot tell you how to live your life, it is strongly recommended that a dryer vent cleaning be done by a trusted professional service. For best results, and to prevent any potential hazards from occurring, it is ideal to have a cleaning and inspection done yearly. However, if you notice warning signs such as unusually hot clothes, excess lint, or an increase in drying time, you should schedule professional maintenance immediately to prevent a dryer fire.

Q: When Is It Time To Have My Dryer Vent Cleaned?

A: There are many possible warning signs that indicate it’s time for dryer vent maintenance. The most common is the abundance of lint throughout your laundry area. You may also notice that your clothes are coming out of the dryer feeling hotter than usual, or your dryer feeling like it’s overheating. Another sign is the speed at which your dryer performs its usual tasks. If you notice a sudden increase in your drying time, it might be because of an existing blockage in the vents. It’s important to call for professional maintenance to get the issue resolved before it causes a dryer fire.

Q: How Common Are Dryer Fires?

A: There are many possible warning signs that indicate it’s time for dryer vent maintenance. The most common is the abundance of lint throughout your laundry area. You may also notice that your clothes are coming out of the dryer feeling hotter than usual, or your dryer feeling like it’s overheating. Another sign is the speed at which your dryer performs its usual tasks. If you notice a sudden increase in your drying time, it might be because of an existing blockage in the vents. It’s important to call for professional maintenance to get the issue resolved before it causes a dryer fire.

Q: How Much Does Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost?

A: Every home and system is unique, so it is difficult to say exactly how much it will cost to have your dryer vents cleaned. To get an accurate estimate, it is necessary to have a full diagnostic inspection. This will help identify the severity of your existing problems and give you recommended solutions.

Q: Are There Real Benefits To Having My Dryer Cleaned Annually?

A: There are more reasons than you may think to have your dryer vents cleaned every year. Besides making your dryer more efficient and preventing dryer fires, you can actually lower your energy bill because you’re saving on the time and energy needed to dry your clothes. In fact, those who have their dryer vents cleaned annually save an average of $18-$24 every month, all because of reduced dryer times. And because your clothes do not have to be tumbled for as long in the drying process, they’re likely to last much longer. Beyond the monetary reward, you’re also helping conserve energy and lowering your carbon footprint

Q: What Is The Difference Between A Dryer Duct And A Dryer Vent?

A: Your dryer’s exhaust system has two common names, dryer duct, and dryer vent. These two terms are used depending on your geographic location but are interchangeable. Whether it’s referred to as a duct or a vent, it should be treated the same exact way. Contact a professional today to schedule a maintenance or get answers to any remaining questions regarding your dryer vent system.