We Clean, Reroute & Repair Dryer Vents
Like many systems in the home, the clothes dryer only works well when it is serviced regularly, installed professionally, and used properly. Only the professionals know the ins and outs of dryer vent installation. A Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician can prevent clothes dryer fires that can devastate the home and even put your life at risk. Most clothes dryer fires occur overnight while families are asleep, increasing the likelihood of death.
Dangers of Dirty Dryer Vents
According to the US Fire Administration, clothes dryers account for 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss each year. Annually, there are 2,900 reported each year. The majority of these fires occur in fall and winter, especially January. There is a reason that these fires occur in fall and winter, and it has to do with how the dryers are working when they aren’t working well.
Signs of a Dirty Dryer Vent
Runs hot - Many homeowners are tempted to run the dryer overnight through winter because it heats the space around it. This is actually not supposed to happen. The dryer vent should vent out excess heat along with the lint. If the heat is being pushed into the house instead or if the dryer or clothes are hot to the touch, there is a dangerous dryer vent clog.
Takes more than one cycle - Many homeowners think that running two or three cycles for one load is just fine. Actually, your clothes dryer should last ten years according to manufacturers, and if one cycle doesn’t get the job done, it means you have a clogged vent. Running multiple cycles not only costs you 2 to 3 times more in electricity, but also shortens the life of your unit by 2 to 3 times!
Moisture in the air - Like heat, if your dryer puts lint and moisture into the living space, it isn’t venting properly. This is not only a serious fire hazard, but the moisture and lint in the air will also affect your health and your home. The moisture can damage your wall coverings, furniture, and cause mold and mildew. Lint in the air is microscopic pollution that you will breathe all day and all night long.
Empty lint trap - If there is no lint in the trap, it is a sign of a clogged vent. In order to pull air through the lint trap and leave lint particles there, the air has to move through the unit and the vent. A clog means the air isn’t moving and lint isn’t left on the screen as the air moves.
Having your dryer vent installed, serviced, or rerouted will keep your family safe this winter, but will also save you money. By scheduling routine services with a dryer vent professional, you will also find out whether or not there are other issues with your dryer vent. If you get frequent clogs and need frequent service appointments, your vent was likely installed incorrectly. We can assess it and even reroute it if necessary. This will mean removing the portion that is incorrectly installed, and rerouting safely and correctly.
If you suspect a problem with your clothes dryer vent or if you haven’t had it serviced in the last twelve months, call the professionals at White Glove today. Schedule online or call 530-924-3164.