"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!"
Dryer Vent Cleaning questions, answered by experts
Professionals use specialized tools to clean dryer vents effectively. These tools typically include a combination of flexible rods and brushes designed to navigate the vent's twists and turns. The brushes dislodge and loosen lint and debris, while the rods help extend the reach through the vent. High-powered vacuums with HEPA filters are also used to capture and remove the dislodged lint and particles, ensuring a thorough cleaning. In some cases, professionals may employ video inspection cameras to assess the condition of the vent and confirm that it's entirely clean.
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.
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.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, dryers and washing machines cause over 15,000 fires a year, with dryers causing about 92 percent of those fires. Because dryer fires are more common than you might think, it’s important to clear the lint trap regularly and have annual dryer vent cleanings.
You should not put boric acid into your home’s air vents. While sprinkling boric acid in roach-prone areas is an effective way to get rid of them, it’s not safe to introduce those chemicals into your home’s air system. Instead, put boric acid or diatomaceous earth in a spot that roaches may walk through, infesting them and the rest of the infestation.
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.
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.