Is It Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Have you checked your clothes dryer lately?

Like most homeowners in Ogden,UT, you've probably taken precautions to prevent fires from happening in your home. But have you checked your clothes dryer lately? Each year, a significant number of homes are damaged by a lint fire. This type of dryer fire can occur when your vent isn't kept clean. So, how do you know if your vent needs maintenance?

4 Ways to Know if Your Vent Needs Maintenance.

1. It's Been a While Since Your Last Inspection

It's important to have your dryer vent duct inspected at least once a year by a professional vent cleaning specialist. While it's possible to do the cleaning yourself, hiring professionals ensures the job is done properly, as they are familiar with all kinds of dryers and have the appropriate tools to efficiently clean the vent.

2. You Smell Something Burning

A burning smell is a sure sign that something's wrong. Lint can clog up the trap, drum casing and exhaust tube, and easily cause a lint fire. If you smell something burning, turn off the dryer and have a professional inspect it immediately.

3. It Takes a Long Time for Clothes to Dry

A vent that's blocked up will keep your clothes from drying properly. The time it takes might be twice or even three times as long. You may put clothes in for a normal drying cycle and find that they're still damp when you take them out. The clothes aren't able to dry because a blocked vent will not be able to release the moist air from inside.

4. The Dryer and Your Clothes Are Really Hot

If the outside of the dryer is hot to the touch and your clothes are extremely warm when you take them out, this is a sign that the vent is blocked and the air from inside the dryer is not being blown out properly.

As a homeowner, you have enough keep you busy without having to worry about a lint fire. Happily, if you look out for the signs above and take the appropriate steps, you won't ever have to!