Home maintenance can seem like a real chore, but there are actually some fairly important tasks that many neglect but totally shouldn’t. One of them is keeping your dryer vents clean. Many forget that there’s more to it than cleaning the dryer’s lint screen between loads of laundry. A clogged dryer vent that’s allowed to stay clogged can lead to very dangerous results. Having your ventilation system properly cleaned annually is the simplest way to protect your home and your family.
What happens if my dryer vent gets clogged?
When your dryer vent becomes clogged, laundry may take longer to dry completely. If hot air is still having trouble escaping the vent, it can make your clothes, the dryer, or the entire laundry room overly warm. Strange smells are also not uncommon when the dryer vent hasn’t been cleaned in a while.
Dryer lint is also highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if the vents aren’t cleaned regularly. Along the same lines, a blocked vent could cause carbon monoxide to collect in your home rather than being vented outdoors.
A clogged dryer vent is bad for the environment—and your bank account
Keeping the lint trap and vent cleared allows the heated air to move through the dryer efficiently, but a clogged vent or dirty lint filter could force the machine to use as much as 30% more energy. Pushing your dryer to perform with a clogged vent could result in a bump in your electric bills. Think about it: if your machine takes twice as long to dry clothes, you’re using twice as much energy. That also results in a shorter lifespan for your dryer.
Don’t let mold fester in your vents
Dryer vents are responsible for blowing any moisture from the dryer outside, but if it’s clogged, moisture can collect, turning into wet spots or even puddles. Lint that soaks up any humidity will get moldy. Wet lint sticks and compacts, making any existing clogs far more difficult to clear.
Ideally, you want to clean your dryer vents at least once a year; and it doesn’t hurt to have an HVAC specialist do it for you. They can better ensure the vent is completely free of blockage and that your dryer is running optimally. Regular cleaning and maintenance reduce wear, which can help you avoid unnecessary repairs in the long term.
Efficiency and safety are the two most important reasons to have your dryer vents cleaned. Proper maintenance is necessary to keep your dryer working efficiently and for the course of its expected life. That same maintenance can also keep your electric bills normal and your family safe. Contact us today to have your dryer vents professionally cleaned.
