Dryer Vents
Dryer vent cleaning is a necessary maintenance item for all homeowners. It not only can prevent fires caused by lint buildup in the ductwork which can ignite under high temperatures, but it can also dramatically improve dryer efficiency which reduces utility costs by decreasing drying time. We use professional duct cleaning equipment to clean dryer vents, this consists of rotating brushes and different agitation devices that dislodge the buildup of lint from the ductwork. This lint is then blown through the ductwork to the exterior of the house with large volumes of compressed air with a tool called an air sweep.
To help prevent fires caused by dryer vents,
we recommend you do the following:
- Clean the lint screen/filter before or after each load of clothes. If clothing is still damp at the end of a typical drying cycle, this may be a sign that the lint screen or the exhaust duct is blocked.
- Replace foil accordion-type ducting material with rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct. Most manufacturers specify the use of a rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct, which provides maximum airflow. The flexible plastic type duct can more easily trap lint and is more susceptible to kinks or crushing, which can greatly reduce airflow.
- Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct every one to three years depending on dryer usage. Check the outside dryer vent while the dryer is operating to make sure exhaust air is escaping. If it is not, the vent or the exhaust duct may be blocked.
- Clean behind the dryer where lint can build up. Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter.
- Take special care when drying clothes that have been soiled with volatile chemicals such as gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils and stains. If possible, wash the clothing more than once to minimize the amount of volatile chemicals on the clothes and, preferably, hang the clothes to dry. If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that has a cool-down period at the end of the cycle. To prevent clothes from igniting after drying, do not leave the dried clothes in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket.