Dryer-Vent Cleaning
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that in 1998, clothes dryers were associated with 15,600 fires, which resulted in 20 deaths and 370 injuries. Fires can occur when lint builds up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct. Lint can block the flow of air, cause excessive heat build-up, and result in a fire in some dryers.
Why have the dryer-vents cleaned?
-
Increased drying time? (jeans & towels)
-
Is the dryer operating hotter than normal?
Reduces chance of dryer vent fire. When the dryer is used, over time lint will collect and adhere to the inside of the dryer vent walls. The larger the buildup, the larger the risk of having a dryer vent fire.
Reduces "wasted electricity" and "appliance stress". Use of a dryer with a dirty vent can cause the dryer to run longer to dry the same amount of clothes because the hot air being expelled cannot freely exit the vent. Longer drying time takes more electricity and puts added stress on the appliance. Which can cause failure of appliance.
Metal connectors from the dryer to the wall are now standard requirements. Use of the "white plastic" types should be replaced due to their ability to melt in a fire. All connection pieces to the dryer vents should be inspected to make sure they are properly attached and up to the newer building code requirements (max 25' of pipe). Regular maintenance will keep the dryer vent clean and the dryer working properly.