The dryer is generally a reliable appliance, so you can use it without problems, unaware of a danger building in your vents. Lint may not develop quickly, but you should not wait for it to be heavy before you take action. Clogged dryer vents cause house fires every year, so it is a question of safety as much as basic maintenance. Knowing why lint builds up in the system and when to clean it will help to lengthen the life of your dryer and protect your home.

What Causes Lint?

Every article of clothing is made of linty fibers. When water is removed from wet clothes, it takes some of these fibers along. Much of the lint will be caught in the screen, but over time particles will pass through and get deposited in the vent system. Since a lot of it actually gets caught by the trap, there is the risk of a fire starting in this spot as well.

When to Clean the Vents

Some people use their dryers more frequently than others so this is one factor that helps to determine how often you should get them cleaned. Otherwise, there are some telltale signs that your vents are clogged. Clearing out the lint trap is required after drying a load of clothes. It will take more than a regular vacuum cleaner to clear out the vents properly however. A technician will perform a thorough cleaning so the dryer can be used safely. Sings that tell you when to call for dryer vent cleaning are:

  • The dryer starts to get very hot during while being used
  • Clothes are hotter than usual when they are removed
  • It takes more than one cycle to dry a load of clothes, or they may still be damp
  • High levels of humidity in the laundry room
  • The vent flap on the outside is not functioning properly
  • The laundry room may have a burning smell

There is no escaping lint if you use your dryer, so do not put off maintenance, especially if you notice any of these signs. A technician can also make sure that the vent system is properly designed to allow heated air to escape. Proper maintenance will extend the life of the appliance, so it is another way to manage your budget.

Dryer Vent Cleaning in Drexel Hill

We have two CSIA Certified chimney sweeps standing by to assist you with your dryer vent cleaning needs. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 to schedule an appointment for dryer vent cleaning. We provide chimney services throughout the Main Line region.