Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in New Hampton, IA

The length of an allowable dryer vent varies based on the local building codes and regulations. Typically, the maximum range is 25 to 35 feet. However, if the vent must have any 90-degree turns, you may see a reduction of five feet from the maximum. Some municipalities may have no specific maximum allowable length as part of the code. Typically, installers will run the vent over the shortest possible distance for safety. The dryer vent cleaning cost is less with a shorter vent length as well. 

You should have your dryer vent cleaned by a professional at least once per year. Over time, lint and other debris from your laundry get caught throughout the vent, causing a few different issues. A less severe problem caused by a clogged dryer vent is extended drying time for your clothes, which increases energy costs. More importantly, lint in a clogged dryer vent can easily catch fire, putting your household members and your home at significant risk. Keep in mind that decades-old dryer vent systems may need increased cleaning, so plan to complete this task twice per year.

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 a few things you can look out for that indicate it’s time to clean your dryer vent, including the following:

• It has been a year or more since the last professional cleaning.

• Your clothes are taking longer to dry than usual.

• Your clothes smell musty or burnt when they come out of the dryer.

• You see lint building up around the outside dryer vent cap.

• Your laundry room is unusually hot.

• Your dryer is unusually hot to the touch during operation.

• You notice a kink in or damage to the vent.