Signs It's Time for Dryer Vent Cleaning

Published 9/3/2014

Dryer vent cleaning is something many people never think about, but ignoring it could bring about devastating consequences in the way of impaired machine operation or an increased risk of fire. So how do you know if your dryer vent needs cleaning? Here are some sure fire signs that will let you know it’s time.

Long Dry Times

One of the first signs of a clogged dryer vent happens whenever it begins taking longer and longer to dry your clothes. In some cases, you may need to put them through two or three cycles, or be restricted to drying smaller loads. If you are having trouble getting your clothes dry, the culprit very well could be a clogged dryer vent.

A Burning Smell

If you smell a faint burning odor while running the dryer, this could indicate there is lint built up inside your vent that has gotten hot and may have even caught on fire. Should this happen, stop using your dryer immediately and have someone inspect your vents for signs of lint buildup.

Hot to the Touch

When your dryer vent is clogged, heat can not be properly exhausted. This could lead to a dryer that feels very hot to the touch on the outside. Your clothes may feel hotter than normal as well. Over time, this places an excessive amount of wear on your dryer, and could cause your heating element or blower to wear out sooner.

Trouble Opening and Closing

A clogged vent can prevent the outside flap from opening and closing as it should. Excess lint may also be visibly protruding from it whenever this happens.

 

Ideally, you should have your dryer vent inspected and cleaned approximately once a year to prevent problems from occurring. Putting it off can be dangerous, which is why you should contact a professional vent cleaning service, such as Mr. Duct, for assistance.