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Failing to regularly clean your dryer vent can put you, your loved ones, and your home at risk, as the lint build-up can lead to a fire. The high heat from your dryer can cause the lint trapped in your vent to burst into flames without much warning. Cleanup costs for fire and smoke damage can run between $3,200 and $28,000. Even if a fire doesn’t break out, the electrical system might short-circuit, creating major electrical problem costs.

Several red flags may indicate the need to call a professional to clean your dryer vent. Dirty dryers are less effective at drying your clothes, leading to higher energy bills and damp clothing at the end of the dry cycle. You may also notice a burning smell, suggesting that lint may have settled on the heating element or you have a malfunctioning part, like a belt or thermostat. Other warning signs include a dryer that feels hot to the touch or lint appearing on the outside.

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 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.

Many professionals can perform this service. Plumbers, HVAC technicians, and specialized dryer vent cleaning companies are all options. Discuss your dryer’s setup with potential service providers to ensure they have the proper equipment and experience to handle the task, especially if your vents are long, located on the roof, or you are dealing with a major clog.

If your dryer vent is not disconnected, it will pipe hot, moist air into your living area, increasing the growth of mold and mildew. This could result in having to pay for laundry room renovations and repairs. It will also release lint and debris directly into your living space, reducing the air quality in your home. In many areas, you are legally required to vent the dryer outside to abide by local building codes.