The Importance of Dryer Vent & Duct Cleaning

Dryer vent/duct cleaning is often overlooked when it comes to household safety. However, the accumulation of lint, dust, and debris can create a significant fire hazard over time. Fortunately, dryer duct cleaning services can keep your family and home safe from dryer hazards – reducing the risk of fires and providing numerous benefits.

At Mr. Handyman of Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties, we specialize in performing dryer vent cleanings. We believe it is not sufficient to remove lint from a dryer filter. A professional should regularly clean and/or replace the ducts between the dryer and the main vent for optimal safety. Today, we’ll discuss signs you need urgent dryer duct maintenance and the benefits of hiring our professional technicians to get the job done right!

The Telltale Signs of Dryer Vent Issues

As homeowners, it is all too easy to neglect dryer vents and ducts. Unfortunately, failure to maintain and clean dryer vents and ducts can lead to devastating consequences, including:

• Long drying times
• High energy costs
• Excess wear on clothing and dryer equipment
• Mold and mildew
• Dryer fires
• Carbon monoxide poisoning

A clogged and overloaded dryer vent can cause your dryer to run at a higher temperature, which puts your home at risk of a fire. Unclean dryer vents can also cause your machine to malfunction, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. We’re here to outline the signs and consequences of clogged dryer ducts and detail the benefits of professional dryer vent cleaning.

Long Drying Times & High Energy Costs

One of the most common indicators that your dryer vents/ducts are clogged is slow drying times, causing spikes in monthly energy costs. A clogged dryer is usually caused by a buildup of lint and debris in the ducts, causing restricted airflow and increased energy consumption.

To prevent this issue, we recommend having a professional clean your dryer vents and ducts at least once a year. Our technicians will also ensure your dryer ducts are as straight and short as possible to minimize the distance hot air must travel to exit the dryer.

Excess Wear & Tear on Clothing and Dryer Equipment

Unclean and obstructed dryer vents can cause excess wear and tear on your clothing and your dryer itself. Buildup in the dryer vent and duct will strain mechanical components. It can also cause excess heat to build up, leading to shrinkage and damaged clothing.

Mold and Mildew

Damp dryer vents and ducts create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Mold spores can cause unpleasant odors and trigger respiratory problems, such as allergies and asthma. Our technicians can ensure your dryer ducts remain well-insulated and clear to prevent excess moisture accumulation. We can also troubleshoot and fix malfunctioning exhaust fans.

Dryer Fires

Sadly, dryer fires are all too common. In fact, 15,000+ dryer fires occur annually in the United States alone, and 80% of those fires are caused by a clogged dryer vent (according to the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Data Center).

When dryer vents/ducts are left unchecked and uncleaned, the buildup can quickly become a fire hazard – especially if you use your dryer frequently. We can help mitigate the likelihood of a dryer fire by properly installing metal dryer ducts. We also highly recommend never drying rags, towels, or clothes soaked in flammable substances (such as oils, gasoline, or solvents).

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent, deadly issue. It can occur when dryer vent/duct airflow becomes restricted, causing carbon monoxide gases to accumulate and circulate indoors. If left unchecked, these gases can lead to fatal consequences. As a result, homeowners should hire a certified professional to install, inspect, and maintain dryer vents and ducts yearly to ensure no blockages. If any issues are found, our technicians will clear and clean them right away.

The Benefits of Dryer Vent and Duct Cleaning

When there is excess lint and debris, your dryer must work harder, resulting in longer drying cycles and higher utility bills. By cleaning your dryer vents and ducts, you can save on energy costs and extend the life of your dryer. Clean dryer vents and ducts will help your dryer work more efficiently and even improve air quality. A clogged dryer vent can cause stale/dusty air – aggravating allergies and causing respiratory issues. With clean vents/ducts, the air in your home will circulate more freely – reducing dust and allergens.

Frequent, Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning Will Maximize Safety

We recommend cleaning your dryer vents at least once a year or more frequently if you dry large loads of laundry. While some homeowners may attempt to clean their dryer vents and ducts themselves, it is wise to have a professional perform the job correctly. Mr. Handyman of Northern St. Joseph and Elkhart Counties has the necessary equipment and expertise to clean every inch of your vents and ducts thoroughly. We also have the experience and knowledge to identify underlying hazards. Our dryer duct cleaning services are second to none!

Never underestimate the signs and consequences of forgetting to clean and maintain dryer vents and ducts. For expert dryer duct cleaning, call our team anytime!