How Homeowners Can Benefit From Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning

The Dangers of a Clogged Dryer Vent (And How To Avoid Them)

Everyone knows their dryer lint screen needs to be cleaned before every load of laundry. It’s usually written in bold letters that are hard to miss when the dryer door is open. But many folks may not realize that the dryer vents themselves need to be cleaned regularly as well. A good deal of lint makes it past the lint screen and winds up collecting inside the lint pipe that leads from the back of the dryer to the wall.

While it may not seem like a big deal, a dryer vent that’s blocked or clogged with lint can lead to damaged clothing, higher energy bills, and even devastating fires - among other undesirable consequences. So keep reading to learn how professional dryer vent cleaning can prevent these scenarios and keep the dryer operating smoothly and safely!

Safety Concerns

Though the majority of homeowners don’t realize it, a dryer vent clogged with lint is a major fire hazard. It’s estimated that nearly 3,000 house fires occur yearly in the United States due to improperly maintained dryers. This is because lint is flammable and can easily be ignited by an overheating dryer. The buildup of lint typically causes the dryer to overheat in the first place since it impedes the dryer’s ability to remove moisture and ventilate hot air.

It’s recommended that homeowners have their dryer vents cleaned at least once a year by a professional to prevent fires. It may be tempting to try and clean out the dryer vent using a dryer lint cleaner or other DIY methods, but this is generally not advisable since it can result in compacting the lint and making an even more dangerous obstruction. Other fire prevention maintenance tasks include keeping the back of the dryer clean, keeping the outdoor dryer vent free of obstructions, and replacing plastic or coiled-wire dryer vent tubing with smooth, rigid metal ducts. 

Damaged or Shrunken Clothing

A clogged dryer vent doesn’t just increase the fire risk but can also damage clothes and other laundry. Without proper ventilation, the dryer will take longer to complete its cycle, and the temperature inside the drum will rise above the selected temperature setting. 

This combination of excess heat and prolonged drying time can cause significant wear and tear to garments, bedding, towels, and other linens over time. In some cases, garments may shrink dramatically or become damaged after just one cycle, particularly if they’re more delicate items requiring lower drying temperatures. Having the vents professionally cleaned protects clothes by keeping the dryer operating normally and efficiently.

Energy Efficiency & Performance

Keeping the dryer operating at peak efficiency isn’t just good for the laundry. It’s also good for the wallet. For one thing, the excess heat and longer cycle times that result from dirty or clogged dryer vents can put undue strain on the dryer. This can lead to premature wear and tear on belts, motors, heating elements, and other components, meaning homeowners may find themselves shelling out for repairs or even a replacement long before they should have to.

The loss of a dryer’s efficiency will also affect the monthly energy usage as the dryer runs longer and works harder to complete laundry cycles. In some cases, a dryer with a clogged vent may take double or triple the time it normally would to get clothes dry. Not only is this inconvenient, but it also drives up the electric bill. So if homeowners notice that their dryer is taking longer than usual to get the laundry dry and energy bills are higher than normal, it’s time to schedule a dryer vent cleaning service!

About Star Air Conditioning & Heating

Star Air Conditioning & Heating is a veteran-owned and operated company serving Kissimmee, FL, and the surrounding areas since 2004. They offer great value, fast turnarounds, and 24/7 emergency response. Call them today for dryer vent cleaning in Kissimmee, FL.