When thinking about fire prevention in the home, most people are concerned about their kitchens. While fire safety in this space is important, ensuring your dryer vent is clean is equally so. A clogged vent greatly increases the risk of fire and can affect the operation of the drying machine. The following guide details what you need to know to schedule timely dryer vent cleaning and keep your home safe and secure. 

What Causes Dryer Vent Clogs?

You should clean your dryer's lint trap before or after every laundry cycle. Failure to do so causes excess lint buildup, which can make its way to the exhaust vent as clothing tumbles in the machine.

Objects can also become lodged in the vent, making it difficult for air to flow efficiently. This is often the case when items are kept in pockets during the drying cycle. Clearing pockets of keys, papers, and other items before placing them in the appliance can prevent obstructions from forming. 

How Can You Tell if Your Vent Is Clogged?

Pay attention to your clothes when taking them out of the dryer. If they still feel damp even after going through a full dry cycle, air is probably getting trapped inside the device due to a clogged vent. Clogs stop hot air and moisture from being diverted outside of the dryer, which can leave clothing feeling wet. 

Retained heat within the appliance can also cause the exterior to feel warmer than usual. Overheating can also contribute to foul, burning smells when the machine is in use. 

When coupled with an overheating dryer, excessive lint greatly increases the risk of a fire. Never ignore bad odors, especially if it's been a while since your last dryer vent cleaning. In general, a professional should clean it at least once a year.

Ensure the safety of your home and functionality of your laundry equipment with dryer vent cleaning from Air Pro Duct Cleaning in Columbia Falls, MT. These skilled technicians will assess your home and use state-of-the-art equipment to remove dust and debris from the vent. With their services, you can enjoy faster dry times, prevent damage to your dryer, and reduce the risk of a house fire. Visit their website to learn more about their dryer vent cleaning techniques, or call (406) 752-0652 to request a free estimate.