How to Tell When Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

4 Steps to Prevent a Dryer Fire

If you own a home in Germantown, Tennessee, or Collierville, Tennessee, fire safety is something you should think about. You've probably installed smoke detectors and have an extinguisher handy; however, have you recently taken a look at the vent on your dryer? Every year, thousands of homes are damaged due to the occurrence of a lint fire. Luckily, it's easy to tell when it's time to clean your dryer vent. So, what should you look for to prevent a dryer fire? SERVPRO of Germantown / Collierville is here with some tips to help.

1. There's a Burning Odor

A good indication that the vent needs cleaning is a burning smell. If lint is clogging up the drum casing, exhaust tube, or trap, you could easily have a lint fire. When there's a burning odor coming from the dryer, turn it off and call a professional to service it.

2. Clothes and Dryer Are Both Hot

If the dryer is extremely warm when you touch the outside and your clothes feel hot when you remove them, it's probably a blocked vent. When the vent is blocked, the hot air can't escape from the dryer.

3. Clothes Are Taking Forever to Dry

With a blocked vent, clothes might take up to three times as long, as usual, to dry. When you put your clothes in for a regular cycle, you might find that they're still damp when you take them out of the dryer. If the vent is blocked, it won't allow moisture to be released from the dryer.

4. Your Dryer Hasn't Been Inspected for a While

A vent cleaning professional should take a look at your dryer at least once a year. While you can clean the vent by yourself, hiring a professional will ensure that the job is done right, and they'll have the right equipment to do a thorough cleaning and make sure the dryer in a safe condition for use.

The last thing you want is a lint fire in your home. By looking for the visible signs, you can prevent a house fire. Contact SERVPRO of Germantown / Collierville at (901) 755-3705 with additional questions.