Clean Dryer Vents: Advice from the Wizard of Monroe, NC

There is a hidden fire hazard in over 80 percent of American Homes; a clothes dryer! The real danger is in the dryer vent and dryer exhaust ducts. Over time, lint build up in the dryer exhaust ducts, restricts air flow, causing overheating that can result in a dryer fire.

Dryer vent cleaning is recommended annually to remove the lint build-up to prevent a fire and to ensure the dryer is operating efficiently. Many homeowners prefer to do as much as they can, on their own, rather than paying for professional services.

Some dryer vents are very short and easily accessible; therefore, they can be maintained by the homeowner. Other systems require the use of special tools and equipment that a dryer vent cleaning technician uses to do the job.

For the do-it-yourself type hardware stores and home improvement stores have various tools and equipment designed to clean dryer vents. There is an attachment that can be attached to a drill. The rotating action of the auger brush and flexible rods will help access and clean the areas of your dryer ducts where lint builds up. The tool comes with several flexible rods that screw together to reach into longer vents. Once you have scrubbed the ducts, you can blow them out with a shop vac. A variety of hand tools are also available to purchase.

Some dryer vent systems are longer and more difficult to access. If this is the case then it is a good idea to have a professional dryer vent cleaning specialist do the job. A dryer vent exhaust technician will also inspect your dryer vent system to be sure it meets current safety codes.

Manufacturers recommend dryer vent cleaning at least once a year to remove lint accumulation before it becomes a fire hazard. Lint build-up can also prevent proper ventilation of carbon monoxide if you have a gas dryer.

If you are the type who likes to do it yourself to save money then at least have your system inspected and professionally cleaned one time to be sure it is safe. Then do the maintenance on your own. In any event, you should have a dryer vent cleaning and repair specialist inspect your dryer exhaust and dryer vent system to be sure it is properly installed.

Jim and Sue Evans, owners of Dryer Vent Wizard, are specialized, trained and certified dryer vent technicians. They provide professional dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation while educating their customers on the importance of proper dryer exhaust venting to prevent fires and keep your clothes dryer operating efficiently.