Dryer Vent Cleaning FAQs
In many homes, the clothes dryer is one of the most frequently used appliances. Laundry can seem endless- especially for families with children. But many families don’t know that clothes dryers are a leading cause of house fires—approximately 15,000 every year. Ace Chimney Sweeps get lots of questions about dryer vent cleaning and why we think it is a necessary part of any home maintenance and safety plan. Here are some of the queries we hear most often:
1. What Does Dryer Vent Cleaning Include?
During a dryer vent cleaning, one of our certified dryer exhaust technicians will thoroughly inspect and clean your venting system, which can over time become clogged with dust and debris “boulders,” as well as nesting insects and animals. We will also verify that your dryer vent is sized and installed correctly. For example, plastic ducts (flammable) that join the dryer to the wall will be replaced with metal ducts (non-flammable). These inspections are more necessary now than they once were because dryers in newer homes are typically located away from outside walls (in places like bathrooms, kitchens, and hall closets), creating longer venting distances with more bending. As a result, dryer ducts are harder to access, and this extra length means more surface area where lint can collect and animals and birds can hide.
2. Why Should I Have My Dryer Duct Cleaned?
It is recommended that you have your clothes dryer duct cleaned annually because lint and debris can build up and cause your dryer to exhaust at less than optimum efficiency. This creates potentially hazardous conditions, including carbon monoxide intrusion and the possibility for fires. If your clothes dryer is improperly vented or the exhaust duct is blocked by lint or debris, carbon monoxide can leak into your living space and poison your family.
3. What’s A Chimney Sweep Company Doing Cleaning Out Dryer Vents?
The practice of sweeping a chimney and cleaning out a clothes dryer duct are actually very similar. With both jobs, we’re accessing and cleaning tight spaces that aren’t visible, but that play hugely important roles in the safety and air quality of your home. Furthermore, the dryer duct acts like a “chimney” for your dryer, carrying away toxic gases and debris, the same as your chimney does.
4. What Are Birds And Rodents Doing In My Dryer Vent?
Birds, mice, and other pests and insects can enter your dryer vent (usually from the outside of your home) and make a nest there. This infestation typically compromises your dryer’s venting capability, and can eventually lead to a dryer failure or a fire. We are happy to rodent-proof your dryer duct.
5. Can I Install My Own Dryer And Dryer Vent?
We don’t recommend it. Incorrect installation is one of the leading causes of dryer fires. Hire a professional to hook up your clothes dryer so that you can rest easy, knowing that it is venting properly and safely.
Protect your family by scheduling your appointment online today!
As part of our complete vent services, Ace Chimney Sweeps, Inc. is also available to clean out your air duct system.
