When drying loads start taking longer—or worse, the machine smells hot or shuts off due to overheating—it’s time to call a professional. Extra lint on clothes or in the trap, a musty or burning odor, and a vent flap that no longer opens easily all hint at a clog. Each sign points to restricted airflow, higher energy bills, and a greater fire risk, so don’t ignore them.
Clean your dryer vent at least once per year to keep your dryer operating efficiently and prevent fires. If your dryer is located far from an exterior wall, you may need to increase the frequency of cleanings to twice a year. Doing laundry daily for a large household may require an increase to quarterly cleanings to keep the vents and ducts clear of debris.
You should contact a specialist for thorough dryer vent cleaning. Licensed plumbers, HVAC technicians, or companies dedicated to dryer vent cleaning possess the necessary expertise and equipment to manage every vent configuration, including challenging setups such as roof-installed or extended duct systems. Reaching out to a qualified professional ensures both safety and efficiency throughout the cleaning process.
You cannot operate a standard dryer without a properly attached vent hose. An unconnected vent forces hot, moist air into your home, which compromises indoor air quality and accelerates mold and mildew growth. This unsafe condition not only raises the risk of fires but also leads to extensive repair expenses, as it breaches local building codes that require external venting.