While most people are familiar with their clothes dryer’s lint trap, many are unaware of an even more critical part, the dryer vent. Located on the back of the dryer, it is often out of sight, out of mind. However, ignoring it can have significant repercussions. The vent functions when the dryer is turned on. It works to remove the moisture and lint by venting it outside through a flexible, vent duct (or tube). The vent itself is usually four inches in diameter and made out of metal. It’s important to mention that, even with regular lint trap cleaning, only about 25% is ultimately collected. The rest builds up inside of the dryer, the vent, and the vent duct. Over time, this build-up restricts appropriate airflow.
Why Does It Need To Be Professionally Cleaned?
While it is especially problematic for homes that run the dryer frequently, any dryer can end up with a clogged vent due to the nature of how they work. Some homeowners choose to attempt to clean their own vents out. However, to be sure that it is done properly, it’s best to hire a professional. Professional vent cleaners have special tools to ensure that it is thoroughly clean and free of lint and other debris. If dryer vent cleaning isn’t done properly, those things may build up and cause inefficient drying and an increase in your electric bill. How often a cleaning needs to happen depends on how often the dryer is used. In general, it should be cleaned between three and twelve months. A professional will be able to inspect your dryer and give you a customized recommendation on the time frame.
Vent Cleaning Can Help Prevent Home Fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 13,000 fires happen every year due to clothes dryer-related issues. Of those fires, up to 27% are caused by lint accumulation. Lint can be very flammable, and it only takes one small spark to create a significant problem. While it is essential to make sure that you check the lint trap each time you use your dryer as a preventative measure, having a professional vent cleaning done takes that prevention one step further. It can also reduce the risk of carbon monoxide and mold build-up, which may happen with an entirely blocked vent.
There is also one other fire hazard that can happen with older units. While newer models come with ducts made of a variety of metal and metal-like materials, some older ones still have their original plastic or vinyl ducts. These should be replaced. With an estimated 230 million dollars in dryer related home fire property damage happening annually, it is better to be safe than sorry.
To schedule a dryer vent cleaning for your home, give us a call at (843) 331-8089 to schedule a free estimate. Coast All Clean LLC also performs other services for our clients in the Myrtle Beach community, including house washing, roof cleaning, gutter cleaning, and driveway cleaning and sealing.