Just Get A New Dryer? Here's Why You Should Get Your Dryer Vent Cleaned.

Congratulations on your new dryer! Whether you've upgraded to a brand-spanking-new model or are buying one used on KSL or Facebook Marketplace, it's essential to consider the often-overlooked maintenance task of dryer vent cleaning. While it might not be something you think about on the daily, neglecting it can lead to serious consequences for your home, your wallet, and even your health.

New vs. Used Dryers

Many of the calls we get are from homeowners who are installing a new washer and dryer and notice that their vent is dirty. Appliance installers do not recommend running your dryer until the vent has been thoroughly cleaned. Imagine your brand new dryer trying to do its job surrounded by months and years worth of old lint! This puts mechanical strain on your new dryer and significantly decreases its lifespan right from the start.

Additionally, used and pre-owned dryers can pose another risk. The vent itself is not the only place that lint can build up. Even if you clean the lint trap before every load, some lint still gets past the screen and builds up inside the dryer and dryer fan. So even if the dryer is new to you, it might still have the previous owner's lint built up inside! Yuck!

So whether your dryer is new or old, it's important to have your dryer and/or dryer vent inspected and cleaned to ensure that everything is running how it should.

The Risks of Neglect

1. Fire Hazard The accumulation of lint is highly flammable. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, thousands of fires occur annually due to dryer vents clogged with lint. This risk increases if the vent is not regularly cleaned, as the trapped lint can ignite from the heat of the dryer.
   

2. Energy Efficiency A clean dryer allows air to flow freely, improving the dryer's efficiency. When vents are clogged, the dryer must work harder and longer to dry clothes, leading to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.

3. Appliance Longevity Dryers with clogged vents are prone to overheating, which can cause damage to internal components. regular cleaning can extend the lifespan of your dryer, saving you from premature repairs or replacements.

4. Indoor Air Quality A blocked dryer vent can cause moisture buildup in your home, creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Additionally, airborne lint particles can circulate in your living space, potentially aggravating allergies or respiratory issues.
   

When to Clean Your Dryer Vent

Aside from the initial cleaning when you install a new dryer, experts recommend cleaning your dryer and dryer vent at least once a year. However, several factors can influence how often it's necessary.

• Frequency of Use: If you do multiple loads of laundry weekly (or if you have a family or pets), your vent may need more frequent cleaning

• Vent Length and Configuration: Longer vents or those with multiple bends can accumulate lint more quickly.

• Type of Fabric: Items like towels or blankets shed more lint than regular clothing, contributing to faster buildup.

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning

While DIY cleaning is possible with homes with short vents (if you can see through the entire vent) and all the right tools (such as a vacuum with a long hose attachment and a vent brush and drill, our professional cleaning services offer thorough inspections and specialized equipment to ensure all lint and debris are removed. We can also identify potential issues early, such as damaged vents or improper installation.

Conclusion

Investing in a new dryer is an investment in convenience and efficiency. To protect this investment and ensure your safety, let us inspect and clean your dryer and dryer vent, giving you a fresh, clean start. By including regular dryer vent cleaning as part of your regular home maintenance routine, you not only reduce the risk of fire hazards but also improve energy efficiency, prolong appliance lifespan, and maintain better indoor air quality.

Remember, a clean dryer vent isn't just about keeping your appliance in good condition - it's about safeguarding your home and family. So, if you haven't had your dryer vent cleaning recently, now is the perfect time to schedule it. Your future self will thank you for the peace of mind and savings in the long run.