Dryer Vent Cleaning

Ask the expert: Dryer Maintenance Tips

Who needs dryer vent cleaning?

• Commercial laundries
• Town homes
• Condominiums
• Apartments
• Duplexes
• Single-family homes

Your Dryer Vents are All-Important

There are many things that contribute to the proper operation of a clothes dryer. The venting is perhaps the most critical. Below we describe a dryer's functions and how its venting plays a part.

One of the most important functions of a dryer is the elimination of moisture recovered during the heating of damp clothing. This moisture is held in the warm air produced by the dryer as humidity, and is normally expelled to the outdoors through the dryer's vent. If this air cannot be adequately removed, poor drying will result.

This moisture can also condense into pools of water in the dryer vent, eventually leaking out. Any moisture accumulation inside the dryer ducting is a sign of poor venting which should be looked into.

Causes of Dryer Vent Hazards and Dryer Vent Fires:

• Lack of maintenance is a contributing factor.
• People just aren't cleaning lint traps as often as they should.
• People are not checking and cleaning vent systems on a periodic basis.
• Reduced air flow results from lint buildup in the screen or other areas around the dryer, causing the dryer to perform poorly, operate at elevated temperatures and possibly overheat.

A simple solution

• To achieve optimal air flow and reduce lint buildup, an all-metal dryer vent or duct is recommended.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting and ducting materials help sustain air flow, as well as reduce operating costs and extend the life of the dryer and clothing, due to lower drying temperatures.

The Importance of Cleaning Dryer Vents to Prevent Dryer Vent Problems

Clean the lint filter before or after each load. Don't forget to clean the back of the dryer, where lint can be trapped.

Cleaning Dryer Vents Annually Recommended

The interior of the dryer and venting system should be cleaned periodically by qualified service personnel to prevent dryer vent problems. If you notice the drying time is longer, clean dryer vents thoroughly to ensure proper airflow.

Install Dryer Vent Tubing – the Right Kind

Replace plastic, vinyl and aluminum foil venting with rigid or flexible metal vents.

No Flammable Substances in Dryer

Do not dry clothing/fabric on which there is anything flammable (alcohol, cooking oils, gasoline, spot removers, dry-cleaning solvents, etc.). Flammable substances give off vapors that could ignite or explode.

Don't forget to read manufacturers' warnings in use and care manuals that accompany new dryers to prevent dryer vent problems. Also, warning markings can usually be found on the inside of the dryer's lid and take only minutes to read.

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