When’s the last time you had your dryer vent cleaned? Although most folks in Independence, MO, Lenexa, KS, and throughout the KC KS/MO area know the importance of regularly cleaning their chimney to prevent a house fire, the dryer vent is often overlooked. This is unfortunate because your dryer vent is also an essential part of your home’s ventilation system. Our service cleans the entire dryer venting system, including the connector hose and ducts. This helps to remove moisture and lint stuck in those vents, hoses, and ducts, preventing it from sparking a fire.
According to the US Fire Administration (USFA), nearly 3,000 clothes dryer fires occur annually. In addition to more than $233 million in property damage every year, these fires cause a number of injuries and fatalities.
Signs Your Dryer Vent Cleaning is Overdue
There are several signs to look for indicating that it’s time to have your dryer vent cleaned.
- You smell a burning odor.
- You hear the dryer making strange noises.
- You see lint or debris around the dryer vent or connector hose.
- Your laundry takes longer to dry.
- Your clothes are damp.
- Your energy bills are higher.
So, if you notice any of the above signs -OR- it has been over 12 months since your last dryer vent cleaning, it is time to schedule your next service call.
Dangers of Clogged Dryer Vents
A clogged dryer vent can put your home and family at risk for several severe hazards, including:
House fire: Lint is highly flammable, and a clogged dryer vent can trap hot air and debris, creating a fire hazard. Clogged dryer vents are among the leading cause of dryer fires in the US.
Carbon monoxide poisoning: A clogged vent causes carbon monoxide to build up in your home. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal.
Damage to your dryer: When the dryer vent needs cleaning, the appliance must work harder than it should, which shortens its lifespan. It can also cause your dryer to overheat, damaging the appliance. The heat buildup can also spark a fire.
Higher energy bills: When the vent is blocked, your dryer operates less efficiently, resulting in a spike in energy bills.
Musty odor: A clogged dryer vent also traps moisture, leading to a musty smell in your laundry room. The higher humidity can attract mold spores, which can be hazardous to family members with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues.
How Often Should Your Dryer Vent Be Cleaned
While cleaning the dryer’s lint tray after every use is vital, the National Fire Protection Administration (NFPA) recommends professional dryer vent cleaning at least once yearly to keep your home and family safe. However, some experts recommend cleaning every six months or twice per year.
Kansas City Dryer Vent Cleaning Services
Professional dryer vent cleaning is the best way to minimize repairs and prolong the lifespan of your appliance while reducing the risk of fire. So, if it has been more than a year since your last cleaning, Call Fluesbrothers at (913) 236-7141 to schedule a visit, or use this handy form to contact us online today! We serve the entire Kansas City, KS/MO metropolitan area, including De Soto, KS; Overland Park, KS; Blue Springs, MO; and Lee’s Summit, MO.
