Do I Need to Have My Dryer Vent Cleaned?

Your clothes dryer has been faithfully churning loads after loads of warm, fluffy laundry for years. But have you ever considered the state of its vent? While most of us regularly clean the lint filter, we are not as diligent with the dryer vent.

Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in the vent, posing serious risks to both the appliance and your home. Let’s take a closer look at why it is important to get the dryer vent cleaned and some signs that suggest it’s time to get it done sooner rather than later-

Why Get the Dryer Vent Cleaned?

So, why get the dryer vent cleaned? Take a look-

• Preventing Fire

One of the most significant reasons to get the dryer vent cleaned is to minimize the risk of a house fire. Lint accumulated in the dryer vent is highly flammable and it can be ignited by the dryer heat. As per the US Fire Administration, there are over 2,900 clothes dryer fires in the country every year.

• Energy Efficiency

Like most other appliances, the dryer won’t function as efficiently if all of its components are not in perfect condition. When the dryer vent is clogged, it forces the dryer to work harder to expel moist air. The inefficiency can elongate the drying process, consuming more energy, and leading to higher utility bills.

• Extended Appliance Lifespan

If the dryer has to work harder than normal for a prolonged period, the appliance will suffer from premature wear and tear. This could potentially shorten its lifespan and require expensive repairs. In some cases, you might also have to replace the components or the entire dryer itself.

5 Signs That Suggest the Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning

Now that you know some of the reasons why dryer vent cleaning is important, let’s take a quick look at some common signs that indicate it’s time to get the vent thoroughly cleaned-

1. Slower Drying Times

If you’ve been using the dryer for long, you’ll have an idea about the average time it takes to dry the clothes. But if you notice it is taking longer for the dryer to dry your clothes, it could be due to a clogged vent. The lint buildup reduces the airflow and restricts the drying process.

2. Hotter Laundry Room

If the laundry room is hotter than usual or if the dryer feels excessively hot to touch, it could be due to a clogged vent. If the vent is obstructed, the heat produced by the dryer can’t escape properly.

3. Excess Moisture in the Laundry Room

If the dryer vent is clogged, moist air is unable to escape properly. This can lead to condensation and moisture buildup in the laundry room, possibly resulting in mold and mildew issues.

4. Burning Smell

A burning smell when the dryer is in operation is also a serious warning sign. It indicates that lint or debris inside the vent may have ignited. Immediately turn off the dryer and address the issue in such cases.

5. Excessive Lint Accumulation

If there’s an unusual amount of lint accumulating around the dryer’s exterior vent opening or on the ground nearby, it clearly suggests that the lint is not venting properly and is escaping from the system.

Ensure Enhanced Safety by Regularly Getting the Dryer Vent Cleaned

As you can see, there are several reasons that make regular vent cleaning an absolute must. But rather than using the DIY approach, it’d be wise to trust professionals for the job. There are several risks associated with DIY vent cleaning, including unintentionally compacting lint and worsening the blockage which could be a serious fire hazard. The professionals at Beeson Mechanical Service can take care of the issue in the quickest, safest, and most efficient manner. Book your yearly dryer cleaning and maintenance by calling us at 317-535-9338.