Your dryer has a lint trap that must be cleaned after every load of laundry you dry. We’re sure you already knew this, and we very much hope you are diligent about doing that each and every time. But you might think that this is enough to prevent dryer lint buildup in the rest of the vent system for your dryer. You would be wrong, and you’re causing yourself unnecessary and serious problems!
Some of the lint that is produced by your clothing, sheets, towels, and more will work its way through the screen of the lint trap or, if your lint trap becomes clogged, will force its way around the edges of that screen. This lint will accumulate in your dryer vent, where hot, wet air is exhausted from your home. This vent needs to be cleaned by professionals. Here’s why.
Lint Is Very Flammable
Did you know that backpackers on long hikes often carry dryer lint with them? This might seem like an odd thing to bring on a camping trip, but it’s incredibly useful for starting fires. Dryer lint is extremely flammable! When it builds up inside your dryer vent, it poses a very alarming fire hazard.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, almost 14,000 fires are caused in American homes every year by clothes dryers. The lint is so flammable, and as it accumulates in the vent, it prevents the heat from escaping the way it’s intended to. The heat rises, and the lint is right there, just waiting to catch fire.
Clogged Dryer Vents Cause Other Problems
If your vent is obstructed by lint, which keeps heat from venting, it will be keeping moisture in the dryer as well. That means your clothes won’t get dry, and you’ll have to run the dryer a second time. This is frustrating and will cause your utility bills to rise unnecessarily. That moisture can also lead to mold, mildew odors, and excess humidity in your laundry room.
Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning Is the Answer
To ensure that your dryer vent is cleaned safely and thoroughly, you’ll need a professional to do the job. While you could make an attempt, it would be easy to cause damage to the vent, do an incomplete job, or risk causing electrical problems or a gas leak! A trained, qualified technician has the expertise to clean your vent quickly and easily, using the proper tools, and keeping you and your dryer safe.
When to Have Your Dryer Vent Cleaned
- If you have to run the dryer more than once to get a load of laundry dry.
- If you notice mold, a mildew smell, or high humidity in your laundry room.
- If your dryer is hot to the touch while running.
- If it has been more than a year since your last dryer vent cleaning.
For safe, effective dryer vent cleaning in Wolfforth, TX, trust the professionals.
JD’s Prompt Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning serves the Lubbock area. Contact us for all your AC installation, maintenance, and repair needs.