Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Garnavillo, IA

You’ll find the backdraft damper near the top of the range hood (where it connects to the ductwork). However, some range hoods also have a second damper, which is located close to the roof or exterior wall where the ductwork ends. If you don’t see a damper in either of these places, you might not have one.

While a professional can always help, there are some common plumbing culprits you can check yourself to see if you can find the sewer gas smell. For example, you should check your water traps, sometimes called P-traps and S-traps, which are located under sink, shower, and laundry drains. The wax ring beneath the base of your toilet, which creates a watertight seal with the plumbing, could also have gone bad.

Depending on how much you use it, your dryer should be disinfected about every six to 12 months, especially if you see frequent buildup of lint or evidence of stains from fabric bleeding or ink. 

Other signs you should sanitize your dryer more often are overheating, improper drying, excessive humidity, or if you notice a strange odor when it’s running.

If you happen to disassemble your dryer vent and feel the inside of the duct immediately after drying a load of laundry, it will likely feel damp and warm. That’s normal, as the vent has just finished moving the humidity and moisture from your laundry to the exterior of your property. However, if your dryer vent has water droplets in it at any time, it’s a sign that there’s trouble with the machine’s ventilation. You should call in a professional right away to get the issue fixed.