Most homeowners know to clean the lint trap after every load of laundry, but what about the dryer vent? After a long winter of handling bulky sweaters, heavy blankets, and extra laundry loads, your dryer has likely been working overtime. Many people don’t realize that clogged dryer vents are one of the leading causes of house fires.

The Hidden Danger of Clogged Dryer Vents

Each year, thousands of house fires are caused by blocked dryer vents resulting in millions of dollars in damage and, tragically, even loss of life. With spring cleaning just around the corner, now is the perfect time to inspect, clean, and protect your home from this serious, but preventable, fire hazard.

Why Are Dryer Vent Fire So Common?

Dryers push hot air through wet clothes and expel moisture through a vent. Over time, lint and debris build up inside the vent system, creating a highly flammable blockage. During the winter months, when windows stay shut and clothes take longer to dry, lint accumulation happens even faster. Here’s why this is dangerous:

  • Lint is highly flammable.
  • Restricted airflow causes overheating.
  • Birds and pests can build nests inside vents.
  • Blockages increase the risk of fire.
Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent:
  • Clothes takes longer to dry than usual.
  • The dryer feels excessively hot to touch.
  • You notice a burning smell when the dryer is running.
  • Excessive lint appears behind or around the dryer.
  • The outside vent flap doesn’t open properly when the dryer is on.
DIY Dryer Vent Cleaning Tips:
  • Unplug the dryer (or turn off the gas for gas dryers) and move it away from the wall.
  • Loosen the vent clap with a screwdriver and carefully disconnect the vent hose.
  • Use a vacuum with a hose attachment or a dryer vent brush to clean out the vent hose and duct leading outside.
  • Go outside to the vent opening and remove any lint, dirt, or animal nests blocking airflow. Make sure the vent flap moves freely.
  • Reconnect the vent hose, secure the clamp, and move the dryer back into place.
  • Run an empty cycle for 5-10 minutes to ensure proper airflow.
Leave It to The Pros

Cleaning dryer vents can be tricky and time-consuming. At K-tech Kleening & Restoration, we offer professional dryer vent cleaning services to keep your home safe from fire hazards. And if the worst happens, you can count on our expert restoration team to help you recover.

Protect Your Home and Your Family – Call K-Tech Kleening & Restoration Today!