Dryer Vent Cleaning is an important service that should be done on a regular basis. It’s recommended that a professional clean your dryer vent at least once a year to help prevent fires and reduce energy usage, as well as keep clothes looking better and last longer. A clogged vent can cause a lot of problems including longer drying times, musty smells, and even burning smells. These problems are signs that it’s time for a dryer vent cleaning.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), clogged dryer vents are the leading cause of house fires in the United States. This is because when the lint in your dryer vent gets too thick, it can restrict airflow and cause the fabric in your dryer to heat up excessively, which can eventually result in a fire. A professional dryer vent cleaner can prevent this by removing the lint build-up from your dryer’s vent line and keeping it clear.
When hiring a dryer vent cleaning company, you should always check to see that they have proper insurance coverage before scheduling an appointment. This includes general liability and workers’ compensation, which protects you in case the technician is injured on your property. In addition, a reputable dryer vent cleaner will be willing to provide you with estimates before beginning the cleaning process.
Another thing to look for in a professional dryer vent cleaner is that they use the proper tools and equipment to perform an effective cleaning. You may be tempted to try and DIY your dryer vent cleaning, but doing it incorrectly can lead to worse results than not getting it cleaned at all. In addition, the brushes on DIY kits are often too abrasive and can damage your ductwork.
Before your dryer vent cleaning, make sure there’s plenty of space for the technician to access your vents. Also, remove any clothes or other items that are in the area around your dryer. This will help them work faster and more efficiently, as well as keep any dust from spreading to other areas of your home.
You should also check to make sure that the outside vent opening is open and unobstructed. It should have a movable or protected cover that’s not blocked by vegetation or stored items. It’s important that you have a clear opening for the vent so bugs and rodents don’t crawl inside and create a nest, which can block your dryer vent and increase the risk of fire.
If you have any pets, it’s a good idea to keep them away from the area during a dryer vent cleaning. Not only can they get frightened by the loud noises and sudden movements of the vacuum hose, but they could be harmed by loose hairs or other debris that may fly off during the cleaning process.
Having your dryer vents regularly cleaned is one of the best ways to protect your family from dryer-related hazards. If it’s been a while since you last had them cleaned, or you’ve noticed any of the warning signs we’ve discussed in this article, contact us to schedule an appointment today!