What clogs dryer vents?
When running efficiently, drying machines generate fumes, heat, moisture, and lint that exit the unit via a ductwork system and an opening outside the building. But when there’s a problem, clogs can cause a dryer to work harder than it should or may fail completely, leading to costly repairs. This is why understanding the sources of dryer vent blockage is so important. Here are some common culprits:
- Lint
- Fiber
- Debris
- Gum wrappers
- Bird nests or small animals
- Vent bends or kinks
- Duct flap or cover malfunction
- Poor vent design
Signs it’s time to clean a dryer vent
Erratic dryer operation should be your first clue. However, timely maintenance will keep your dryer working as it should. Various warning signs suggest the possibility of obstruction to emphasize further the importance of clogged vent cleaning and periodic inspection. Depending on the problem, you may experience any of the following:
- Clothes that take too long to dry
- Excessive lint buildup around the dryer or vent
- Unusual vibrations or noisy dryer
- Additional heat and moisture in the laundry area
- Musty odors or mildew
- Burning smell during the drying cycle
Benefits of regular dryer vent cleaning
Troubleshooting dryer vent issues becomes easier when you take preventative actions like regularly clearing out debris and lint. Besides helping the appliance operate more efficiently, dryer vent cleaning is a valuable safety measure and energy conservation strategy. More specifically, these are some of the most significant benefits you’ll experience when you consistently maintain your dryer exhaust vent:
- Reduced risk of fire
- Improved vent airflow
- Minimized chance of carbon monoxide poisoning
- Inhibited growth of mold and mildew
- Lower utility bills
- Prolonged durability of clothes
- Extended usable lifespan of the dryer
Why professional dryer duct cleaning is necessary for properties
A happy, healthy, eco-friendly environment for commercial and residential communities requires a reliable venting system. These properties have unique needs and requirements due to safety and insurance rules, the shared use of common facilities, and proximity to each other. So, beyond these considerations, proactive dryer vent maintenance by a licensed dryer vent cleaning company for commercial and residential properties is highly recommended. The reasons are simple:
- Expertise and experience: Trained technicians possess qualifications and expert HVAC and dryer duct cleaning knowledge. They have spent hours working on multi-unit buildings and understanding vent configuration nuances.
- Proper equipment: Specialized equipment like compressed air hoses and blasting attachments are needed to clean deeply embedded debris and deposits.
- Knowledge of local building codes: Regulations regarding dryer vent installation and maintenance may vary slightly from one city or county to the next. Cleaning contractors are aware of local regulations and standards to ensure they comply and minimize the chance of encountering problems with building inspection.
- Enhanced safety: By following safety protocols and wearing the necessary protective gear, dryer vent cleaning specialists remain committed to healthy and safe solutions that further reduce the risk of fire hazards.
- Debris disposal: Tidying up after a dryer vent cleaning project involves lint removal and properly disposing of the collected debris. Licensed technicians are responsible for removing it from the property’s premises, thus eliminating the need for costly haulers or property staff members to do the job.
Partner with HOA Services in Oregon!
As your trusted partner for dryer vent cleaning, HOA Services has provided seasonal and on-demand property maintenance to the Pacific Northwest for over 9 years. We service multi-family units, residential communities and retail centers with different dryer models. Contact us today for a custom quote.