When is the last time you thought about your dryer vent? Few people realize the lint from your clothes ends up not only in the lint trap but also flows into the dryer vent where it accumulates over time. Highly combustible lint combined with excessive temperatures from the dryer is a recipe for a fire.
Dryer fires usually start beneath the dryer when the motor overheats. Overheating is caused by a build-up of lint in the duct that increases the drying time and blocks the flow of air. Other contributing conditions may include lint inside the dryer, a missing or damaged lint screen, an excessively long vent, non-code vent material (plastic, vinyl and non-rated foil) that may kink or stop airflow, or a bird’s nest or other debris blocking the vent.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there are 15,500 fires, 10 deaths and 10 injuries associated with dryers annually, with costs over $80 million. Dryer vent cleaning significantly reduces the risk of this type of fire.
Warning Signs
Dryer is still producing heat but taking longer and longer to dry clothes
Clothes are hotter than usual at the end of the cycle or smell burnt
Outdoor flapper on vent hood doesn't fully open when the dryer is on.
Condensation is found on the dryer’s interior
Additional Benefits to Dryer Vent Cleaning
Allows dryer to operate more efficiently and saves you money.
Protects dryer from excess wear and premature death.
Helps clothes dry faster—a time saver for busy families.
Reduces excess household dust and humidity.
Helps preserve clothing, as many fabrics are damaged by excessive heat.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Service providers should thoroughly inspect your dryer vent line from the dryer to the termination point outside your home. A brush and vacuum system is the most effective method of cleaning vents, and providers should have a tool long enough to clean the entire vent. Plastic, vinyl or foil vent material could be damaged by cleaning tools, allowing moisture to flow into walls or living spaces. This can result in mold growth and respiratory illness. This material should be replaced with code-compliant vent material.
By following these simple guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of having a dryer fire or moisture damage in your home. And always remember – never run the clothes dryer while you are out of the house or sleeping, and it really is important to clean your lint trap every time you dry a load of clothes.
This article was written by Janice Bittner, owner of in Northern Virginia. Janice specializes in dryer vent cleaning, maintenance, repair and alterations to prevent clothes dryer fires. She is also committed to educating all of her customers, explaining to them how their dryer duct and vent system works and how to properly maintain it to reduce the risk of fire. Janice services Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington and Alexandria Counties.
Linteater Dryer Vent Cleaning System
Dryer vents clogged with dust, fiber, and lint is the cause of nearly 30% of all dryer fires, making it a top contributor to this tragedy. To reduce this risk, clean lint screens and traps before and after every load of laundry. Carefully wash lint screens with soap and water at least once a month to remove residue buildup from dryer sheets. Also, be sure your vent material and installation are up to code according to city, state, and manufacturer recommendations. Replace foil or plastic vents with venting made from semi-rigid or solid metal material. Check the path of the dryer vent. Be sure it is as straight and short as possible. This helps prevent buildup at the elbows of vent systems. Check out the outside hood of the venting system. Make sure it is free from blockages, freezing, or other damages. In addition to these actions, have your dryer vent system professionally inspected and cleaned seasonally.
To enhance dryer fire prevention methods, be sure to keep a working fire extinguisher that is designed for use in laundry rooms near the washer and dryer. Test and replace the batteries on all fire alarms frequently. Do not store flammable or combustible materials near the dryer and refrain from drying clothing covered in such materials. Do not leave the house or go to sleep when your clothes dryer is running. Develop a fire safety/emergency plan. Be sure to include exits and meeting places in the plan. Discuss and practice the plan with all household members. Learn the warning signs of lint buildup and clogged vents including:
•Clothes take more than one cycle to dry, especially jeans and towels.
•There is no lint visible on lint screen.
•Dryer repeatedly stops during a cycle.
•Clothes have a moldy smell after a dry cycle.
•Clothes are very hot after a dry cycle.
This article was written by Karl Schiesz, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Central Alabama. Karl is committed to educating his customers on dryer vent cleaning and maintenance to prevent clothes dryer fires and to save money on energy bills. http://www.dryerventwizard.com provides more tips and information on dryer vent maintenance and services. Karl services Central Alabama, and neighborhoods around Jefferson County, Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston and Gadsden.
Both Dayne & Dayne Benson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Dayne has sinced written about articles on various topics from Interview Questions, Franchise and Home Management. Dryer Vent Wizard is a nationwide company, Dryer Vent Wizard professionally inspects and cleans clothing dryers for homeowners and in commercially-owned buildings. Poorly maintained dryer vents cause fire hazards and cost substantially more to operate.At. Dayne's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.
Dayne Benson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Anger Control, Anger Control. Dryer Vent Wizard is a nationwide company, Dryer Vent Wizard professionally inspects and cleans clothing dryers for homeowners and in commercially-owned buildings. Poorly maintained dryer vents cause fire hazards and cost substantially more to operate.At. Dayne Benson's top article generates over 4400 views. to your Favourites.
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