Growing up, we don’t remember ever seeing anyone clean out their dryer vents – outside of cleaning the internal screen between loads, that is. And if you’re like many of our clients, you’re probably thinking that this isn’t a service you actually need. That is… until 6 months from now when you realize your clothes aren’t drying like they used to. A quick online search later, and you’ll see that clogged up dryer vents are a leading cause of this occurrence.
The good news? Mid-Valley Chimney Repair & Sweeps can get your venting system professional cleared out in no time. Give us a call at 513-727-0994 or schedule with us online now.
Did You Know… Dryer Vents Could Catch Your House on Fire?
The latest report on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states as follows:
In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year.- These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage.
- The vast majority of fires (92%) involved clothes dryers.
Why are we – a team of chimney sweeps – so good at dryer vent cleanings? Well, because they’re very much like cleaning a chimney. Utilizing specialized brushes attached to a drill, our team efficiently sweeps your dryer vent’s sides clean. Before you know it, your dryer will be working efficiently, and you’ll be able to enter your laundry room with peace of mind day after day.
Signs Your Dryer Vent Is Clogged
Stay vigilant and be on the lookout for these signs that indicate your dryer vent may be in need of cleaning:
- Extended Drying Times: Clothes taking longer than usual to dry is a clear indicator of reduced airflow. A clogged vent restricts the escape of moist air, leading to prolonged drying cycles – as well as higher energy bills and more wear on your clothes.
- Overheated Dryer: If your dryer – or the clothes in it – feels excessively hot to the touch during (or directly after) operation, it may be struggling to expel heat due to a clogged vent. Overheating poses a fire hazard and can damage the appliance.
- Musty Odors: A moldy or musty smell emanating from your laundry room could be a sign of accumulated moisture. A clogged vent traps moisture, creating an environment conducive to mold growth.
Lint Accumulation Around the Dryer: Visible lint around (or possibly inside of) the dryer, especially near the vent or lint trap area, indicates that lint is not being properly expelled. This accumulation can escalate the risk of a dryer fire.- Hot Exterior Vent Hood: Check the exterior vent hood while the dryer is running. If it feels unusually hot, it suggests restricted airflow, possibly due to a clogged vent.
- Burning Smell: A burning odor while the dryer is in use is a huge red flag. Lint, when heated, can emit a burning smell, signaling a potential fire hazard.
- Excessive Lint in the Lint Trap: While it’s common to find some lint in the trap after each cycle, an unusually large amount suggests that not all lint is being expelled (hinting at a clogged vent).
- Fluctuating Dryer Performance: Inconsistent or erratic dryer performance, such as sudden stops or unexplained malfunctions, may be attributed to a compromised vent.
- Visible Debris Around the Exterior Vent: Inspect the area around the exterior vent for lint buildup, debris, or even bird nests. Accumulated debris obstructs airflow and necessitates prompt attention.
If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. Regular professional dryer vent cleaning can safeguard your home, enhance appliance efficiency, and mitigate the risk of a potentially devastating fire. Give us a call or schedule online with our techs now!
How Often Should I Have My Dryer Vents Cleaned?
We suggest scheduling a professional inspection and cleaning of your dryer vents at least once a year. This routine maintenance helps prevent lint buildup, ensures optimal dryer performance, and minimizes fire risks.
That said, if you use your dryer multiple times a day (hello those with kids, pets, and busy households), consider investing in more frequent cleanings. Heavy usage results in faster lint accumulation, requiring more regular attention to maintain safe and efficient operation.
Give Us a Call Today
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook potential hazards that may be lurking in our homes. Don’t put your home at risk. If your dryer is not drying or if it smells like something is burning or if your clothes feel really hot, turn the dryer off and unplug it. Let it cool down and then call Mid-Valley Chimney to come out and take a look at it as soon as possible.
Scheduling an appointment with us is a breeze, and our expertise in dryer vent maintenance is unparalleled. We’re committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, and we’d love to help you out soon. Give us a call at 513-727-0994 or book with us online today.