Dryer Duct Cleaning

12/6/2023 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO of Casper employee cleaning a customers dryer vent.

While having ducts cleaned in homes and businesses has been a common service nationally for decades, it has only recently gained widespread awareness in Wyoming. The fact that property owners are realizing the importance of cleaning built-up dust and debris from their duct systems is helpful to maintaining healthy indoor environments. But one vent that is still often forgotten is the dryer duct vent.

Every time you do a new load of laundry in your dryer, you instinctively clean out the lint trap. This is a good practice. It helps your machine work more efficiently, and also helps prevent safety hazards. But  it is only the first step in controlling dryer lint buildup. The duct that runs from the dryer to the outside of the building helps remove the hot air and moisture. Lint slowly builds up in this duct over time. When there is a heavy build up in in the dryer duct, it reduces the airflow, and exhaust gases start backing up, coupling with the high temperature. It is a recipe for a dangerous fire. The US Fire Administration states that 34% of residential fires are due to dirty dryer vents. On gas-fired dryers, there can also be a risk of carbon monoxide buildup in the home, if the dryer cannot properly discharge its exhaust. This can create an air quality hazard for you and your family.

These are excellent reasons to have your dryer duct cleaned regularly. In addition to making for a safer home, keeping your dryer ducts clean allows proper air flow for your dryer. This results in shorter drying times, lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and potentially longer dryer life.

NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) recommends that dryer vents get cleaned at least once a year.