Dryer Vent Cleaning: Essential Fire Prevention

Your clothes dryer might be one of the most dangerous appliances in your home. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, clothes dryers cause more than 15,000 structure fires each year, resulting in deaths, injuries, and millions in property damage. The leading cause? Failure to clean the dryer vent.

How Dryer Fires Start

Every time you run your dryer, lint passes through the lint trap and accumulates in the vent line. Over time, this buildup restricts airflow, causing the dryer to overheat. Lint is highly flammable—when it gets hot enough, it ignites.

The fire often starts inside the vent line and can quickly spread to walls, attics, and other parts of your home. Because the vent runs through hidden spaces, you may not notice the fire until significant damage has occurred.

Warning Signs of a Clogged Vent

• Clothes take longer than one cycle to dry
• Clothes are unusually hot after drying
• The dryer itself is hot to the touch
• Burning smell when the dryer runs
• Lint accumulating around the dryer door
• The vent hood flap doesn't open properly
• Excessive humidity in the laundry room

Benefits of Professional Cleaning

While cleaning the lint trap after each load is important, it only catches about 75% of lint. The rest accumulates in the vent line. Professional dryer vent cleaning:

• Prevents fires by removing flammable lint buildup
• Reduces drying time by restoring proper airflow
• Lowers energy bills by improving efficiency
• Extends dryer life by reducing strain on components
• Prevents carbon monoxide buildup (gas dryers)

How Often Should You Clean?

We recommend professional dryer vent cleaning at least once per year. Large families or heavy users may need cleaning every 6 months. If you notice any warning signs, schedule service immediately.