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Importance of Dryer Vent Cleaning

It seems like the dryer is the one appliance that is always running. Especially if you have kids, it feels like every day is laundry day. But, did you know that your dryer could be a fire hazard? According to the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Data Center, up to 80 percent of the country’s reported structure fires start with a clogged dryer vent. Neglecting dryer lint build up is a recipe for disaster. While preventing fires is paramount, the importance of dryer vent cleaning goes beyond that as well.

Symptoms of Blocked Vent

  • Clothes are still damp after a normal drying cycle.
  • You notice a musty smell in your clothes after a drying cycle.
  • Your clothes are unusually warm to the touch after a completed cycle.
  • The exterior dryer vent hood flap does not open when the dryer is operating.
  • It’s been over a year since your last dryer vent cleaning.
  • Debris and lint are collecting below the interior connection and exterior dryer vent opening.
  • Drying time is exceeding 40 minutes, every time.
  • The temperature in your laundry room seems excessively hot when the dryer is on.
  • There are large amounts of lint accumulating in the lint trap.

Benefits of Dryer Vent Cleaning

Fire Prevention

Dryer lint is extremely flammable. As stated before, according to the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Data Center, clothes dryers are responsible for more than 15,000 structure fires around the country each year. Up to 80 percent of those fires begin with clogged dryer vents.

Prevents Dangerous Fumes

Clogged dryer vents can also cause a release of toxic gases. If your vent is blocked carbon monoxide may back up into your home. Thousands of folks are treated for symptoms of poisonous gas fumes each year due to blocked dryer vents.

Benefits Your Wallet and the Environment

The first step in saving money, and making sure your dryer runs efficiently is cleaning the lint screen with every cycle. This alone can save you up to 30 percent in energy costs. However, if you neglect your annual dryer vent cleaning your dryer eventually will need to run longer and harder. Thus, causing your energy costs to increase.

Increase Your Dryer’s Lifespan

When your dryer vents are clogged your dryer has to work doubly hard. Additionally, this causes further wear and tear on your machine. Therefore, decreasing your dryer’s overall lifespan.

Prohibits Animal Nesting

When your dryer vents become clogged your exterior duct hood flap may not close properly. It could be an invitation for birds and other small animals to nest in this comfy warm space. When you have your vents cleaned all components are inspected, as well, ensuring your system is in top working order.

We Can Help!

Maid Healthy is more than just a maid service. We also provide dryer vent cleaning and HVAC vent cleaning. Our goal is offering homeowners cost-effective, environmentally friendly cleaning services. You can trust our over 50 years experience. Our focus is enhancing your home’s indoor air quality, which provides you with peace of mind. Contact us today for an estimate.