Dryer vent cleaning promotes maximum dryer performance and prevents dryer fires. As wet laundry is tumbling in the dryer drum, heat is blown through it to evaporate up to a gallon of water. As the water vapor becomes airborne it leaves the dryer through the ducts to the dryer vent outside. If the dryer duct is clogged with lint then the heat and moisture cannot escape, your dryer works harder and laundry is still damp after several cycles. This is a warning of a serious fire hazard and a big waste of energy. Poorly vented clothes dryers can cost an additional $300 per year to operate!
Dryer Vent Inspection
When a dryer exhaust specialist performs a dryer duct inspection, he is checking several things.
The Connection: Obviously, the dryer vent system needs to be properly connected to the back of the dryer and there should be no leaks. Dryer duct pieces should be connected with exterior clamps and/or sealed with foil tape to prevent dryer exhaust leaks. Do not use sheet metal screws to connect pieces because they protrude to the inside of the duct where lint can get stuck and accumulate. The duct should be smooth inside to help prevent lint build-up.
Duct Material: Your dryer requires air flow to perform its job. Dryer ducts made of flexible foil, plastic or vinyl can be easily kinked or crushed, blocking air flow. Since dryers are often located in small, tight spots, this problem occurs quite often when people attempt to push the dryer closer to the wall, crushing the dryer vent tube. There are special dryer duct systems that are designed to work in small areas.
Dryer Lint Accumulation: Even the very best, professionally installed dryer duct system will eventually become clogged with lint, dust and debris if maintenance is neglected. Dryer vent cleaning is recommended at least once a year to remove lint build-up in the dryer duct and inside the dryer near the motor and other moving parts.
Recommended Specifications: Dryer exhaust ducts should be constructed of 4 inch, rigid metal pipe with a smooth interior and joints running in the direction of air flow. The flexible foil and vinyl types are considered to be a fire hazard. The dryer duct should be as short and straight as possible. The maximum length for a dryer duct is 25 feet; however, it must be reduced by 2.5 feet for each 45 degree turn and 5 feet for each 90 degree turn because bends restrict air flow.
The end of the Line: The dryer exhaust duct must be vented to the outdoors and be at least 3 feet from doors and windows. Dryer vents should have a back draft damper, not a screen, at the end. Screens allow lint to accumulate and block airflow. Many people have their clothes dryer vented into the attic or crawlspace of their home. This causes many problems, including mold and mildew damage to rafters and floor boards. Mold in the home can also be a health threat to residents.
If you have any doubts about the safety and efficiency of your dryer vent system then you need to have a professional inspection done. A dryer exhaust technician should be able to do a thorough inspection of your dryer vent system and explain their recommendations.
George Perez owns Dryer Vent Wizard of the Treasure Coast, a licensed and insured company with uniformed professional technicians trained to solve any venting issues customers may have. Technicians are bonded, with background checks for customer’s peace of mind. Dryer Vent Wizard stands 100% behind their work and guarantees full customer satisfaction.