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Cleaning out the lint trap of your dryer is second nature to most. We often do it after each load.
Why?
Because it helps our dryer work more efficiently and we know it’s a safety hazard if we don’t.
The same holds true for your dryer vent. This is the tube that runs from your dryer to the outside of your house. It helps remove hot air and moisture. If this vent gets clogged it can lead to many complications.
Here are the top 5 reasons why it’s important to clean your dryer vent of clogs and lint.
1. Safety
The number 1 reason on our list is safety! Dryers run hot and lint is highly flammable, which makes for a dangerous combination if you don't clean your dryer vent.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, clothes dryers are responsible for more than 15,000 structure fires each year and 80% of those are due to clogged dryer vents. This is a preventable problem.
There is also the possibility of fumes backing up into your home through clogged vents. The gasses and carbon monoxide that should be released outside could potentially back up into your home causing an air quality issue for you and your family.
2. Low-Efficiency
We all want our appliances to work as efficiently as possible. A clogged dryer vent could mean your clothes will need multiple cycles before drying correctly or will need to run longer. This is because the proper amount of hot air is not reaching your dryer.
Multiple cycles and extended drying times mean additional energy spent and could lead to an increase in your electrical bill.
3. A Clean Dryer Vent Means a Longer Life for Your Dryer
We already pointed out that a clogged vent means a less efficient drying cycle. If your dryer is running longer than normal or more than one cycle per load, your slowly decreasing the life of your dryer. It’s essentially working double-time!
A dryer that is overworked will add considerable wear and tear to your machine. This could lead to malfunctions and needed repairs. Allowing your dryer to run this way can also cause a complete breakdown of your machine over time.
4. Mold
The purpose of the dryer vent is to release moisture and hot air outside. The moisture can sometimes create wet spots inside the tube. Built-up lint can get caught in these wet spots and create mold.
This wet lint can also stick to the inside of the vent’s tube making dryer vent cleaning more difficult.
5. Less Maintenance
Like any other appliance or machine, your dryer will last longer and work better if it’s properly cared for. Cleaning the dryer vent regularly will help ensure that your clothes are being dried in a timely manner and you aren’t wasting unnecessary energy. Extended drying times can even cause strain on your fabrics.
A dryer that continues to run with a clogged vent can cause internal problems that require repairs. This means more money for you.
Your dryer vent should be cleaned once a year. If you’re unsure of how to clean your dryer vent or want professional assistance, contact a cleaning specialist today!