Dryer Vent

Yes, by having your dryer vent professionally cleaned, your clothes dryer will run more efficiently. Your dryer will not have to run as long, lessening the wear and tear on your dryer, reducing your need for repair and lengthening the life of your dryer.

Although a homeowner can clean dryer vents, it is advised that you consult a professional.  Most homeowners don’t have the special equipment required to do a thorough job. A professional has special tools such as video inspection equipment to give a visual of the hard-to-reach areas of the dryer vent system.

Using the following as a checklist, you can get a good idea if your dryer vent is in need of cleaning:

• Loads of clothing are taking longer to dry.
• Clothing is very hot and still damp when dryer finishes (especially heavy items especially, such as towels).
• The dryer itself feels hotter.
• There may be no lint on the lint screen (i.e. the exhaust system is clogged).

According to the U.S. Fire Administration the dryer vent should be cleaned and inspected on average every two to three years. This will help ensure the exhaust system is clean, as well as help reduce the risk of a dryer vent fire.