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How To Tell If a Dryer Vent Is Clogged? Signs & Cleaning Steps

September 1, 2024 Hussain Bhatti No Comments

We all do laundry at least once a week or sometimes twice. Yet, we often don’t pay attention to keeping our appliances in tip-top shape. Don’t worry; we have a long list of to-dos. Thus, over time, the dryer starts acting up, warning that it can result in something severe.

One common issue is a clogged vent. But how do you know that your dryer vent is clogged? There are many signs to identify it, some of which are mentioned in this blog post.

Firstly, if you notice that clothes are not fully dry after a regular cycle of 30-40 minutes, it could indicate that hot air isn’t flowing as it should. A restricted or blocked vent affects performance by trapping moisture inside the machine.

Another tip to keep in mind is the state of your lint trap. It would help if you routinely emptied it, yet lint accumulates faster in the vent. This buildup can become dangerous, as lint is highly flammable and reduces airflow.

Dangers of Ignoring Maintenance

A clogged vent is much more dangerous for those using gas-powered dryers. Lint accumulation can prevent carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas, from exiting the vent. Instead, it accumulates inside the room where the dryer lives, posing a lethal risk.

How To Tell If a Dryer Vent Is Clogged? – 7 Signs Your Dryer Vent Is Clogged

Let’s get some more further into it. Professionals recommend a yearly cleaning frequency, but depending on your usage. 

Sign # 1: Clothes Smell Musty

First of all, when your dryer struggles to expel humidity properly. Due to a clogged vent, you notice that the clothes emit a musty odor. This smell arises because the air that should dry and refresh your laundry is trapped with damp materials. Also, it creates an ideal environment for the growth of mold and mildew.

Sign # 2: Overheating/Burning Smells

How do you know if something is burning in a kitchen? Its smell. Similarly, a burning smell from your dryer is a severe warning sign. It indicates that lint is built up to the point where it ignites. This not only produces a burning odor but also reaches near the end of the fire. The National Fire Protection Association highlights that around 15,520 dryer fires occurred in 2006-2010.

Sign # 3: Excessive Lint

A visible buildup of lint can quickly tell you about the current situation of the lint trap. Yet, the unseen lint around the dryer hose and in the laundry room is a silent threat. It shows that the vent is blocked and should be cleaned out immediately. If you don’t fix it on time, it can cost you expensive repairs and replacements of some components.

Sign # 4: Laundry Room Hotter Than Normal

If you just enter your laundry room and start sweating.

What do you think?

The weather is scorching today.

Or.

I’m sweating due to work and tired.

Right?

But

If the room where your dryer operates feels unusually hot, it’s often because the heat is stuck inside due to clogged vents. This makes the room uncomfortable and forces you and the dryer to work harder.

Sign # 5: Blocked Vent Hood

You still face the issue even if you clean up the vents properly. This means that the vent hood is still blocked by debris or lint. You must perform a thorough vent cleaning to make more room for outgoing hot air. Eventually, you notice that the dryer takes less drying time, and the additional strain on your dryer is also reduced.

Sign # 6: Long Time Pass Since Last Cleanup

Stick a schedule checklist ☑️ in your laundry area

Most landlords know when they’ve last cleaned their vents. If you face the clogging issue, remind yourself if you need a vent cleanup or if it’s something else reducing the dryer efficiency.

As contractors, we tell owners to make a simple checklist, cheatsheet of schedule, or write down the history of their dryer work.

Sign # 7: Increased Utility Bills

Another sign is the increase in your energy bills. According to an estimate, a clogged vent can cause 30% more bills than clean vents. This happens because your dryer has to work harder and run longer due to ineffective venting,

3 Types Of Dryer Vent Clogs 🗑️

Well, you’re aware of the signs of clogging. But what’s the silent cause behind it?

Let’s explore those types of clogging materials.

1. Structural Clogs

Beginning with structural clogs these occur when dryer sheets—made from abrasive materials—accumulate through continuous use. This type of clog is tricky since the material tends to cake and block the airflow. You have to clean and vacuum regularly. Corduroy, velvet, and other materials can also contribute to this issue.

2. Foreign Objects Clogs

Secondly, foreign object clogs are more challenging to prevent and unclog. Anything from toys to socks can create a severe blockage. These are problems and headaches during laundry time. There are two easy ways to identify them: either you hear the rattling or unusual noises during a cycle. Or you do a manual inspection with a torch light.

3. Animal and Bird Nests

Finally, animal and bird nests represent a unique challenge. Birds, rodents, and other animals find a warm and sheltered environment. That’s why dryer vent openings are ideal for setting up a home. The standard issue arises when you start your dryer after a month or so.

 Tip: If you plan not to use your dryer for an extended period, cover both ends to protect it. 

How to Clean Clogged Lint Out of Dryer Vents? – Step to Make It New Again

Step 1: Identify the Clog

Before you do anything, determine the type of clog. Common clogs can include lint buildup, foreign objects, or animal nests. If the vent feels hot or your dryer is not drying clothes as it should, it’s likely clogged.

Step 2: Prepare Your Tools

Gather the necessary tools. If the clog is stubborn, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner with a long hose, a wire hanger, and possibly a plunger or rod. Ensure you have a rag to clean up any mess and protective gloves to prevent damage to your hands.

Step 3: Remove Lint and Debris

Turn off and unplug your dryer. Carefully insert the vacuum cleaner hose into the vent pipe. You can use a leaf blower if you don’t have a vacuum. Use the highest setting to remove as much lint and debris as possible. A wire hanger can help fish out debris or push it through for deeper clogs.

Step 4: Check for Structural Blockages

If you suspect a structural blockage (like built-up lint or foreign objects wedged tightly), use the wire hanger straightened out to clear the path. Gently maneuver the hanger inside the vent to avoid causing any damage to the duct.

Step 5: Address Animal Nests

Animal nests can be tricky. If you find evidence of an animal making a home in your vent, contacting a professional is best. We have the special tools and expertise to safely remove the nests and ensure the animals are not harmed.

Step 6: Test Your Dryer

After cleaning, plug the dryer back in and run it on a low cycle to test if the air quality has improved or not.

That’s it for you. We hope you learn new things about your dryer and can take preventive measures.

Professional Services & Maintenance – Ventiluxes

Regular maintenance is all you need. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself or the clog persists, rely on licensed, trusted professionals. It’s crucial to learn about the service you expect and ask the right questions. Trusted companies like Ventiluxes offer significant benefits and can debunk your common myths about dryer vent cleaning.

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