The Importance of Dryer Vent Cleaning and Repair

Did you know that your company that specializes in chimney cleaning in Atlanta, GA, also specializes in dryer vent cleaning and repair? While your chimney and flue may pose a fire risk to your home, so does your dryer vent. In fact, the USFA estimates that there are approximately 2,900 fires occur each year due to dryers. Along with this high number, it’s estimated that 5 people will be killed and 100 injuries will occur due to dryer fires. Not cleaning the dryer properly is one of the leading causes of these fires and can easily be prevented with the right knowledge. Along with reducing the risk of fire, here are a few other reasons to keep your dryer vent clean and in good repair.

Fire Risk Reduction

Each time you run a load of laundry through your dryer, lint is collected from your clothes and linens. The lint that is trapped in your dryer is extremely flammable. It’s so flammable that the Boy Scouts of America often use it ignite fires. For this reason, it’s important to pay attention to where your lint is going. A good majority of the lint from your clothes accumulates around the lint trap. Over time, lint also gets caught around the dryer vent. This not only clogs the vent but it also causes the dryer to overheat. This excessive amount of heat can ignite a fire within your dryer that can then spread to the rest of your home. Many homeowners don’t know how to clean the dryer vent, which is why hiring a professional is so important to the safety of your family.

Increased Dryer Longevity

If your dryer’s vent is constantly clogged, that means that it’s overheating frequently. Frequent overheating causes the parts and components inside of your dryer to wear out more quickly due to the friction and temperature. While it is possible to replace the heating element and other parts of your dryer, it’s expensive. Keeping your dryer vent clean and clear is the best way to improve performance and increase the life expectancy of your appliance. It also prevents expensive repairs from occurring. Experts recommend that you clean the vent at least once a year to ensure functionality.

Better Dryer Efficiency

It’s impossible for your dryer to efficiently dry your clothes when its vent is completely clogged. If you find yourself having to dry your clothes more than once, it’s time to clean things out. The more time it takes to dry your clothes, the more energy and money you’re spending. Not only are you wasting energy, but you’re also causing your dryer to work overtime to get your fabrics dry. A professional can clear out your vent, save you money on your utility bill, and ensure that each load of laundry is dry after one cycle.

As important as it is to invest in chimney cleaning in Atlanta at least annually, don’t forget to have your dryer vent cleaned out, too. With both of these areas of your home free and clear of debris, you can rest easy knowing that you have reduced your fire risk and increased the safety of your family.