A clogged dryer vent with lint can lead to several problems, including decreased efficiency, long drying times, and even a fire. The United States Fire Administration reports that between 2010 and 2014, there were 2,900 home structure fires caused by clothes dryers. So how can you prevent a dryer vent fire in your home? The answer is simple: by having your dryer vent cleaned regularly. Are you not convinced? Here are five reasons to change your mind.
1. Save money on your energy bill:
When your dryer has to work harder to dry your clothes because of a clogged vent, it also has to use more energy. Cleaning your vent regularly can help you save money on your monthly energy bill.
If you have noticed that your clothes are taking longer to dry or are not getting as dry as you would like them to, your dryer vent is likely partially or fully blocked. A professional vent cleaning company can help resolve this issue quickly and efficiently.
In addition to reducing your energy bills, having your vent professionally cleaned can also extend the life of your dryer. When clothes do not dry properly, they can create excessive heat and friction, damaging the dryer’s components. Regular cleanings will remove any build-up of lint and other debris that could cause problems down the road.
2. Prevent mold and mildew:
A wet environment is the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. If clothes are taking too long to dry or if they come out of the dryer damp, that’s a sign that air isn’t flowing correctly through the vent. Clothes that don’t get sufficiently dried can also start to mildew while still in the machine. Regular cleanings will help keep mold and mildew at bay.
If you notice a musty smell in your home, it’s a sign that mold or mildew is present. These fungi thrive in damp and humid environments, so any area of your home that isn’t adequately ventilated is at risk. Closets, basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms are all prime breeding grounds for mold and mildew.
To get rid of mold and mildew, you’ll need to clean the affected area thoroughly. Scrubbing with soap and water is usually enough to remove surface mold, but you may need a more robust cleaner for more demanding jobs. Be sure to ventilate the area while you’re cleaning to prevent the spread of mold spores. Once the room is clean, ensure it stays dry to prevent mold and mildew from returning.
3. Prolong the life of your clothes dryer:
When airflow is restricted due to a clogged vent, it stresses the motor and other parts of the dryer, leading to premature wear and tear. Cleaning your ducts will help prolong your clothes dryer’s life and save you money in the long run.
If you notice that your clothes dryer is taking longer to dry your clothes, or if it feels boiling to the touch, it could be a sign that your vent is wholly or partially blocked. A professional vent cleaning service can help clear away any debris that may be clogging your duct and help improve the efficiency of your dryer.
In addition to extending the life of your clothes dryer, professional vent cleaning can also improve the safety of your home. A clogged vent can cause dangerous levels of carbon monoxide to build up in your home, which can be deadly.
4. Prevent house fires:
As we mentioned before, lint build-up in a clothes dryer vent is one of the leading causes of house fires. Having your ducts cleaned regularly can help prevent a devastating fire from occurring in your home.
In addition to the fire hazard that lint buildup poses, it is also a significant source of inefficiency in your dryer. When lint builds up in the vent, it restricts airflow, which means your dryer has to work harder to do its job. This wastes energy drives up your utility bills, and puts unnecessary wear and tear on your dryer, which can shorten its lifespan.
5. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re taking steps to protect your home:
When your dryer vents are cleaned regularly, you can take comfort in knowing that you’re doing everything possible to protect your home from fire hazards. Lint build-up in dryer vents is a significant cause of house fires, and by having them cleaned regularly, you can help to prevent this from happening.
In addition to preventing fires, regularly cleaning your dryer vents can also help improve your dryer’s efficiency. When lint builds up in the ducts, it can restrict airflow and cause the dryer to work harder than it needs to. This not only wastes energy but can also shorten the lifespan of your dryer. Keeping the vents clean can help them run more efficiently and prolong their lives.
Conclusion:
Dryer fires are more common than you might think—but they’re also preventable. By having your dryer vent cleaned regularly, you could save money, prolong your clothes dryer’s life, prevent mold and mildew growth, and, most importantly, help prevent house fires. Schedule a routine cleaning today for peace of mind tomorrow!
Turtley Awesome Cooling & Heating LLC is Palm Bay, FL‘s leading air conditioning repair service. Our team of highly trained professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality service to our customers. We offer a wide range of services, including dryer vent cleaning, to keep your home or business running smoothly. Schedule a routine cleaning today and breathe easy, knowing your property is in good hands!
