"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
If you just moved into a new house or found significant mold, dust, or pest remnants in your vents, or you see condensation on your air vents, you can easily find a highly trained pro to do the job correctly by asking a few key questions:
Do you have proof of liability insurance?
What about worker's compensation insurance?
Are you a member of the NADCA?
Have you worked on my model of HVAC system before?
What is included in your contracted amount?
Can you provide local references?
Your dryer vent hose should be as straight as you can possibly get it. A straight vent means less lint buildup in the hose. If the hose has a lot of bends and turns, it’s much easier and much more likely for lint to get stuck along the line, meaning you’ll have to clean it out a lot more often to decrease the risk of a total blockage or a fire.
There are several common warning signs that indicate your dryer vent may be clogged. If your clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, the vent could be the culprit. Other signs include the exterior of the dryer becoming very hot during operation, or the dryer shutting itself off due to overheating. You might also notice an excess of lint left inside the dryer or in the lint trap after a cycle, see lint building up around the exterior vent opening, or detect unusual or burning odors. A clogged dryer vent is a serious fire hazard, so if you notice any of these signs, you should stop using the dryer and have the vent cleaned immediately.
Dryer vents commonly need to be replaced every one to three years. This will depend on the rate at which you dry loads, how often you clean your vent, and what type of vent you have. For instance, regular care will prolong the life span of most options, while aluminum foil vents may need to be replaced more frequently with or without regular maintenance.
As a general rule, you should have your dryer vent professionally cleaned at least once a year to remove lint and debris buildup, which can cause fires and increase energy costs. However, the frequency may need to be adjusted based on usage. If you have a large household, use the dryer frequently, have pets, or have an older vent system, it is better to clean the vent more often, such as every six months or even quarterly. You should also schedule a cleaning immediately if you notice signs of a blockage, such as clothes taking longer to dry, the dryer feeling hot to the touch, or an odd odor. Routine vacuuming is not a substitute for a thorough, professional cleaning.
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.
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.
Hiring the right dryer vent cleaning pro helps reduce fire risk and keep your dryer running efficiently. Use this guide to learn about costs, services, and questions to ask before hiring.
