Homeowners in Marietta aren’t immune to problems from dirty dryer vents. In fact, across the country, over 2,900 fires are started by dryers each year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Most homeowners use their dryers a lot. Over time, dryer lint builds up inside the machine’s lint trapper, and it typically removed by the homeowner. But lint can also build up elsewhere — inside the dryer and along the vent itself. Learn why dirty dryer vents are a big problem for the safety of your home and what you can do about it.
A Trifecta of Terrible Conditions
Over time, lint and other debris build up inside the appliance. This causes a reduction in airflow, traps exhaust gases, and creates hazardous conditions. And worse, lint itself is highly flammable.
Signs to Look For
There are early warning signs that indicate that buildup is occurring in your dryer. Here’s what to watch for:
- The dryer cycle isn’t getting the job done. It takes longer than one cycle to dry clothes, or clothes are coming out of a long cycle still wet.
- The vent runs a long distance from the appliance to the outdoors.
- After being in the dryer, clothes have a musty smell.
- When you take clothes out of the dryer, they’re very hot.
- The vent hood flap is closed when the dryer is running.
- The room in which the dryer is located gets really hot when it runs.
- You notice more lint buildup than usual after each cycle.
Cleaning the Dryer Vent
Every time you use the dryer, you should clean the dryer vent. Simply remove the lint trap and grab hold of the lint. Discard the lint in the trash, and replace the trap.
There are other steps you can take to ensure safety. Inspect the dryer hose. Assess its condition and replace it immediately if you notice that it’s damaged or worn. The hose should run in a straight line, so unbend it if necessary. Regularly remove items stored near the dryer. If a fire does start, storing boxes and other items next to the appliance will give fuel to the fire.
Hire an expert. An HVAC provider can help you with cleaning dirty dryer vents. In fact, it’s recommended that you hire an expert to clean out the entire system. A professional inspection includes checking the gas line, the vent and exhaust and the hood flap. The dryer is cleaned by taking the dryer apart and vacuuming any lint that is trapped between the drum and the casing as well as the vent line. The final step is an inspection. The technician should inspect the venting system to ensure that it meets local codes.
How often should you clean the dryer? The federal government recommends that homeowners hire qualified service professionals to service and clean systems periodically. If you have a gas-powered dryer, have it inspected every year. Don’t risk a clothes dryer fire started by failure to clean. Contact Reliable Heating & Air today to schedule a dryer vent cleaning appointment, and sleep easy tomorrow!
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