The Hidden Consequences of Skipping Dryer Vent Cleaning

The Dangers of a Clogged Dryer Vent

There are three primary dangers of clogged dryer vents:

Fire Hazards: 

Your dryer vents and ducts collect lint from the dryer and outdoor debris, such as dirt and grass. You might even have an entire bird’s nest in the ducts and not realize it. The debris found in dryer vents is highly flammable and, when combined with the heat produced by the dryer, can lead to a fire quicker than you can imagine.

Health Hazards: 

The lint and debris produced by dryers can combine with moisture from wet laundry, creating a dangerous breeding ground for bacteria and mold that can make your family sick. Gas-powered dryers also pose a carbon monoxide poisoning threat because the lint blocks the carbon monoxide from exiting via the ducts.

Energy Efficiency: 

Clogged dryer vents impact the efficiency of your dryer by restricting the airflow. As a result, you will have to run your dryer beyond the usual cycle time, using more and more energy to do so.

Choosing a Professional Service

Dryer vent cleaning is highly recommended for every homeowner as it offers several benefits, including:

• Dryer efficiency due to reduced run times
• Less wear and tear on parts to help prolong the life of your dryer
• Reduced energy costs due to shorted dryer cycles
• Reduced risk for fires
• Improved indoor air quality
• Less wear and tear on clothes due to reduced run times
  

How to Choose the Right Company

When choosing a dryer vent company, you want to ensure they are experienced and qualified to perform the cleaning safely and efficiently. Focus on the following:

• Check online reviews for companies in your area
• Call the top-rated companies
• Ask about costs
• Confirm the company is insured
• Check their designations
  

How to Maintain a Clean Dryer Vent

You can help keep your dryer vent clean with these tips:

• Clean your lint filter before running every load
• Keep the exhaust area outside clear of nests, debris, overgrowth of weeds, nests, etc.
• Have annual vent inspections for gas dryers
• Avoid overloading the dryer
• Never run the dryer when you are not home
• Store flammable substances away from your clothes dryer
• Have your dryer vent cleaned professionally at least once per year
  

The Importance of Dryer Vent Cleaning:
Protecting Your Family From Hidden Consequences

Although cleaning your dryer vent is likely not top of mind, the hidden consequences of skipping dryer vent cleaning can put your family in jeopardy. Finding a vent cleaning company like Dynasty Ducts is the best way to reduce the risks. Learn more about dryer vent cleaning here.