Do you know when it's time to clean your dryer vent? If you're like many people, you may not be aware of the signs that indicate it's time for a professional cleaning. But if you don't clean your dryer vent regularly, it can lead to serious problems, such as a house fire. To help you stay safe, here are five of the most common signs that you need to have your dryer vent cleaned. The first sign is if you notice fluff coming from the outside ventilation opening.
If it's been more than a year since you last had your dryer vent cleaned, then it's definitely time for a professional cleaning. Cleaning the dryer vent regularly will help improve its efficiency and therefore reduce the amount of energy it consumes. Another sign is if your clothes are very hot when you turn on the dryer. This could be an indication that lint is trapped in the system and causing the dryer to overheat. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend cleaning the lint filter after each load and having the ventilation of the dryer cleaned at least once a year. If you see pieces of fluff accumulating where your home's ventilation grille comes out, then it's a sign that you're overdue for a cleaning.
Cleaning dryer racks may seem like a tedious task, but if you haven't done it for a while (for example, more than a year), then it should be at the top of your to-do list. This is especially important if you want to avoid a house fire like the one that happened to this family due to lint buildup in their dryer vent hose. If your clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, then it could be an indication that your dryer vent is clogged with lint. In this case, call a professional to inspect the dryer and have them clean the vents as soon as possible. No matter how diligently you clean the lint filter, lint will eventually reach the vent and begin to clog the system. Finally, regularly cleaning the dryer's ventilation grilles helps remove lint and other debris that obstructs the dryer's performance.
A ventilation grille cleaning professional has the tools necessary to access the build-up deep inside the hose and ensure that the system is completely clean. When the dryer vent or vent hose is clogged, lint buildup prevents moisture from escaping from the dryer. It's important to remember that these are just some of the signs that indicate it's time for a professional cleaning of your dryer vent. If you notice any of these signs, don't wait any longer and call an expert right away. Cleaning your dryer vent regularly will help keep your home safe from potential fires and also improve its efficiency.
