"My combo boiler/hot water went out yesterday Moore did a great job and came up with innovative solutions to get it fixed quickly - very pleased as temps are going to below zero and big snow has begun. Also great job on mask-wearing for COVID. I have used Moore Heating, including buying my boiler from them 9 years ago, and very pleased with their professional service!"
Dryer Vent Cleaning questions, answered by experts
Yes, you can snake a roof vent. This is one of the best ways to clear a problematic clog in a plumbing vent. You can either snake the vent by climbing on the roof and sending the plumber’s snake or auger directly down the vent opening, or you can cut a hole in the vent from inside the attic and snake it from there.
A dryer vent inspection is simply the process of checking the vent for the possibility of damage or clogs. You can do it yourself or hire a pro. Pull the dryer away from the wall and inspect the portion of the vent that’s behind the appliance for lint buildup or kinks. Check the connection of the vent to the wall for loose parts or lint that’s escaping the vent. Check the exterior exhaust vent for signs of damage or lint blockage. A pro can check the length of the vent inside the wall for you.
Conducting quick dryer maintenance can extend its lifespan. Help your dryer stay in mint condition by cleaning the lint trap before and after every cycle. This keeps leftover lint from accumulating in your dryer vent, which is one of the leading causes of household fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
You can also wipe down the lint screen with dish soap every few months to keep it extra clean. A basic wipedown of the drum every few months and a deep clean of the exhaust vent once a year are beneficial, too.
A burnt rubber smell coming from your clothes after they’ve been in the dryer can be the result of too much lint in the lint trap. This prevents air from circulating properly, and the lint may even come into contact with the heating element. It could also be the result of bigger issues like a faulty thermostat or worn-out dryer belt. A burnt rubber smell can even come from elastic waistbands or rubber decals in your clothes. To remedy this, dry clothes on a lower heat setting or allow them to air dry instead.
Failing to open your flue can lead to serious health hazards if you start a fire because the smoke will back up into your home. Breathing fire smoke, even in relatively small quantities, is bad for human lungs, and smoke can also irritate your nasal passages and eyes. Furthermore, smoke can cause damage to your interior fixtures and furnishings, at the very least leaving an unpleasant smoky smell for a long time. In short: If your flue isn’t open (or you’re not sure if it is or not), don’t start a fire to find out!
The Wrangell, AK homeowners’ guide to dryer vent cleaning services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A dryer vent cleaning cost averages about $140 when done by a professional. Read our tips to understand the key cost factors involved in dryer vent cleaning.
When your dryer is leaving wet or overly hot clothing, it might be time to get your dryer vents cleaned by a professional. Learn more about this and other signs you need a dryer vent cleaning, like a hot laundry room or broken vent hood.
You might not think much of lint, but it’s actually a major fire hazard. Running your own dryer and dryer vent inspection can help you spot dangerous buildup.
Knowing what questions to ask a dryer cleaning pro can help prepare you for the job. Check out these dryer vent questions before cleaning your dryer vents.