For all types of equipment, performance is always a prime concern. Maintenance is the key to keeping your large appliances running properly, and to help them to last. The dryer is one piece of equipment that you will use frequently and the more often you use it, the greater the need for maintenance. If your dryer seems to be slowing down, it may have a lot to do with the state of your venting system.
Warning Signs
Your dryer will let you know that everything is not as it should be. One of the first things homeowners notice is that it takes a longer time to dry loads of clothes. You might need another cycle to get them dry, and in some cases you may have to run items through the dryer again. As you would imagine, this can drive up your expenses.
Another warning sign to look out for is moisture stains in your ceiling. This might be the result of moisture being forced out of a clogged dryer duct. Many homeowners have reported an increase in the warmth in their laundry rooms.
The simple step to boosting performance is to get the duct system thoroughly cleaned. While a professional will do the best job, many homeowners can do a fair amount of the work with the right approach and tools. With a powerful vacuum you can clear out most of the ductwork from both ends. Then, set the vacuum to blow and insert it in the transition end of the duct, so it pushes more of the lint out of the system.
After doing this, you see a marked improvement in the performance of your dryer. If it still fails to operate the way it should, contact a chimney sweep to inspect and clean the system.
The Fire Risk
If you have a severely blocked dryer vent system, and you have not had a house fire, consider yourself lucky. Blocked vents are a leading cause of house fires, so a little maintenance can protect your family as well. A good reason to have your system inspected is that there are often installation flaws which can hinder the proper venting of heat. Any lint that collects at any point in the system creates a potential fire hazard. There is always a possibility that you will need some adjustment to the ductwork to maintain efficiency.
Chimney Inspection
Give me a call at 610-626-2439 if you’re not sure whether you need to worry about dryer vent cleaning and maintenance. One of the CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps here at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service can inspect your dryer vent to make sure it’s properly serviced each year.