Dryer Vent Cleaning: FAQ About Cleaning and Repairing Dryer Ducts

Ducts

If you haven’t had your dryer vent cleaned recently, you may want to rectify the situation as a clogged duct is a hazard to you and your family. This matter can be fixed if you hire an expert to rectify the issue. Here are some of the most common questions about this type of cleaning and repairs:

How often should my dryer vent be cleaned?
You should have a thorough cleaning done at least every two years. Factors determining this include the length of the vent, how many turns it has and how often the dryer is used. A dryer with a short vent and is used little may be able to go without cleaning longer than normal, while those who use the appliance on a regular basis might need a yearly cleaning.

Why should I get my dryer vent cleaned dryer vent?
Cleaning it lifts a huge safety risk that weighs on you and your family. Dryer fires are usually the cause of a dirty or improperly installed vent. Another risk from dirty vents is carbon monoxide gas buildup.

A proper cleaning will save you on the cost of electric or gas. A spotless pipe will allow the appliance to move the proper amount of air through the system, allowing your clothes to dry at a faster rate without using extra power.

How will I know it’s time for a cleaning?
Your dryer will leave a few tell tale signs. If you notice a significant change in drying times, if you can’t feel air blowing from the vent outside from at least a foot or if you see lots of lint starting to collect, then you need to get it cleaned.

Is there a difference between vinyl and metal hoses?
Aluminum hoses have a much higher temperature range, and they do not deteriorate like vinyl hoses. Maybe most importantly, aluminum hoses are also fireproof.

Is a longer hose better than a short one?
A shorter run is more efficient, as it doesn’t clog up as fast with lint and costs less to clean, while a longer hose run will have your dryer working harder.

How should I protect my dryer vent from intrusion?
There are covers available for purchase. One of the most common ways is to cover it with mesh, but this creates a fire hazard, so experts don’t recommended you do this.

My dryer smells like smoke whenever I turn it on.
The lint is probably getting trapped behind the dryer tumbler, and this is because your hose is jammed with lint or other debris. The lint gets trapped on the tumbler and the heating element dries it out, causing it to catch fire. Have your vent cleaned immediately.

Why is my hose collecting water?
Most likely because the hose has a sag. This sag is causing condensation to collect more water over time. Water will lead to rust and sludge, so have it fixed ASAP.

Should I remove the back of the dryer to clean the vent?
You should really call a professional to have your vent cleaned. It is not recommended you remove the back of the dryer.

Can I vent my dryer to the basement?
You should never vent it to an indoor space, as the heat and moisture will result in mold growth. Always have your dryer vented outside.

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