If your dryer vent is clogged, it can be a serious fire hazard. Lint and other debris can accumulate in the dryer's ventilation system, leading to a dangerous buildup of heat. Regularly cleaning the dryer vent can help reduce the risk of fire, but if the worst happens, your homeowners insurance policy can help you get back to normal. You'll probably notice if the lint trap is clogged, which is usually located just inside the dryer door.
However, to take full advantage of the benefits of your service, it is important to clean the dryer vent before a disastrous fire occurs. If you're using a package designed for dryer ventilation systems that are less than three meters long, it may cause a clog, making it difficult for a professional to remove the clog. When the dryer vent is clogged, it will take longer and longer for clothes to dry as the clogged vent traps air and keeps clothes warm and humid. You may also notice a burning smell when you're working hard to dry your clothes. In fact, about one-third of fires are caused by not cleaning the dryer vents, leading to a clog. One of the first signs that the dryer vent is clogged is when clothes no longer dry completely during a normal drying cycle.
Here are some other warning signs to look out for:
- Clothes take longer and longer to dry
- Burning smell when drying clothes
- Clothes are still damp after a cycle
- Lint trap is clogged