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Most people know to clean out their lint screens. After you run a load of laundry, lint and other debris will get caught in the filter located on top of your unit or inside the door. Dryer screens must be kept clear to avoid risks related to dryer fires. However, some people forget that dryer vents must also be cleaned. A professional can help with older dryers and dryers that produce excess lint, as some units require disassembly for thorough cleaning. We collaborated with Dryer Vent Professionals of San Diego to discover why it's essential to have your dryer cleaned by professionals. Read on for five reasons to have your dryer vent cleaned by a professional.
Reduced Fire Hazard
It is estimated by the U.S. Fire Administration that about 15,000 home fires could be avoided per year with proper dryer vent cleaning. Lint is made of fabric fibers that are lifted off of the clothes and other laundry in the washing machine. In the dryer, the water is removed, and the lint is generated by friction. Lint is extremely flammable, and buildup is risky. A fire can cause serious damage and spread quickly from your dryer to other parts of your home. Many dryers require professional assistance for thorough cleaning that can afford homeowners peace of mind. If you notice a burning odor or your laundry feels excessively hot when you take it out of the dryer, it might be time to have your vents cleaned.
Longer Dryer Lifespan
Wear and tear and lint buildup can cause a dryer to stop working properly. Many owners may think the dryer is broken and needs to be replaced, when really it just needs a professional dryer vent cleaning. The more lint that builds up, the harder your dryer has to work to dry your laundry. Considering dryers are not cheap, having your vent cleaned regularly can ultimately save you money and keep your dryer going longer.
Improved Efficiency
When your dryer vent is clogged, it has to run longer to dry clothes, blankets, sheets, towels, and all of the other things you regularly run through your washing machine. If the dryer takes longer to get your laundry dry, it is using more energy. This can add significantly to your energy bill over time. In fact, it is estimated that the average dryer will use at least $0.75 worth of electricity during a standard cycle. A dirty, clogged dryer vent can take two or three cycles to dry your laundry, meaning it may be doubling or tripling your bill and your carbon emissions. If your utility bills are rising, it may be time to call a professional dry vent cleaning service
Elimination of Mold and Allergens
Your dryer’s job is to eliminate moisture from your laundry. If the vent is clogged, the damp lint in the vent allows allergens and mold to grow, as the dryer cannot function optimally. Humidity that lingers in basements and laundry rooms can then lead to mold growth in the walls and other parts of the house. A clogged dryer vent can even attract a variety of pests into your home, such as rodents, and can give way to an ideal environment for pest breeding. If you notice an increase in pests around your dryer or dryer vent, you may want to reach out to a local dryer vent cleaning service to check out your vent.
Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and Poor Air Quality
For gas dryers, a clogged dryer vent will not allow exhaust fumes to vent out of the house as they are supposed to. Carbon monoxide can then build up inside the home, which creates a fatal risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is always best to be safe and work with a dryer vent cleaning service to ensure your dryer is in optimal condition and your home is protected against carbon monoxide. A clean dryer vent can improve the air quality in your home overall. Dirt and dust collect in air ducts and vents throughout buildings and lead to poor air quality. Keeping your dryer vent clean will help prevent contaminants from recirculating throughout your home.
In Conclusion
There are lots of benefits to keeping your dryer vent clean. Your dryer is an appliance that needs regular maintenance, just like most others in your home. A clogged dryer vent can pose a major safety hazard, so consult with a local dryer vent cleaning professional about when to have yours cleaned.