When it comes to your home appliances, you probably give little thought to your drying machine. As long as it gets your laundry dry, there’s not much to worry about, right? Unfortunately for many homeowners, dryer vent cleaning is one aspect of home maintenance that gets neglected far too often, but the team at Air Duct Cleaning & Services in Anchorage, AK, wants to help. They share a few interesting facts about your home’s dryer vents so you can better understand the importance of scheduling a regular vent cleaning.

3 Facts About Dryer Vent Cleaning

1. Regular Cleaning Prevents Fires

Dirty and clogged dryer vents are among the leading causes of house fires across the country, with an average of more than 15,000 fires happening each year. As you use the dryer, some of the lint from your clothes makes its way past the lint trap and into the dryer vent. As the buildup increases, more and more heat is trapped in the vent. Unfortunately, lint is incredibly flammable and even a relatively low amount of heat can cause it to ignite, often resulting in devastating house fires.

2. There Are Warning Signs

Since you can’t see into your dryer vent, knowing when it’s time to schedule a cleaning can seem like a bit of a mystery. However, there are a few things you can watch for. When you run the dryer, check the temperature of the exterior. If it feels abnormally hot, you likely have a dirty vent that’s restricting air flow. Similarly, if your dryer is not getting your clothes as dry as it should, there may be a buildup of lint in the vent reducing its efficiency.

3. Cleaning Your Lint Trap Is Not Enough

Removing lint from the lint trap will help extend the time your dryer can go between cleanings, but it won’t keep you from needing one indefinitely. In fact, it’s best to schedule an annual inspection with an experienced vent cleaning professional. This way, you’ll stay on top of the buildup and have the chance to clean it out before the lint becomes a fire hazard.

If you’re concerned about your dryer’s performance or haven’t scheduled a dryer vent cleaning in more than a year, contact the team at Air Duct Cleaning & Services today. Their dedicated staff can help with all of your vent cleaning needs, from air duct sanitization to allergy relief. Learn more about their services by visiting their website. To schedule an appointment or to discuss your home’s vent cleaning needs, call (907) 350-3050.