"Very punctual and professional. Got the job done in no time flat with good results. No more bugs and I couldn't believe how much stuff he got out of our dryer ducts!"
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.
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.
Expect costs between $100 and $200, depending on the vent system's complexity and accessibility and regional pricing differences.
You will know if your dryer is overheating by placing your hand on top to feel its temperature. If it’s hot to the touch, that’s a clear sign the dryer is overheated. Other signs include your laundry coming out hotter than usual, a burnt smell when it’s running, or burn marks on your laundry.
The frequency of cleaning your dryer depends on how often you use it. For regular households, it is recommended to clean the lint trap after each load of laundry. Additionally, thorough cleaning of the dryer—lint trap, drum, and exterior—should be done every few months. It's important to pay attention to the vent system as well. Ideally, it should be cleaned at least once a year, or six months if your dryer takes care of huge loads often, or more frequently if you notice reduced drying efficiency.
The Ashley, ND 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.
Regular dryer vent cleaning is essential to keeping your dryer running safely and efficiently. But when it comes to dryer vent cleaning, is it better to hire a pro or DIY?