5 Best Unmistakable Signs Your Dryer Vent is Clogged

Every year 2,900 dryer fires are started in the United States causing property damage, injury, and even death.

The U.S. Fire Administration claims that 34% of these fires are caused by not cleaning the dryer properly. 

Every dryer has a vent that comes out the back, usually leading to outside. If your dryer vent clogged up, there may be signs there, or inside the dryer itself. 

Is Your Dryer Vent Clogged? Why Does it Matter?

A clogged dryer vent can cause ineffective drying, higher energy bills, and fires. 

Take time to learn the signs of a clogged vent. 

1. It Takes Longer to Dry Your Clothes

If you notice your clothes are taking longer to dry than normal, a clogged vent may be the culprit. 

When moisture isn't able to escape the clothes while it dries, your clothes will stay damp longer. The humid air tries to escape and is pushed back into the dryer by the clogged lint, debris, and dust.

So, make sure to pay attention to especially long dry times, you'll want to make sure you clean your vent as soon as possible if it is responsible for your clothes taking longer to dry. 

2. Check the Visible Vents

There are two vent openings you should check out. There is one outside the home in the form of an exhaust tube and a lint filter inside the dryer. The lint filter in the dryer is removable and should be cleaned after each use.

If you notice that the vent on the outside of the house has dust and lint in it, your dryer vent could be plugged up. Is there a flap that isn't opening properly? Could be the clogged vents, as well. You may need to replace your dryer vent hose and there are many available. Here is more information on some of the best dryer vent hoses.

Also, if you see less than normal debris inside your dryer lint filter, it could mean that it is going into the large vent instead and could be clogged. 

3. Dryer is Hot

Does your dryer feel warmer than usual to the touch? If heat and moisture aren't able to escape properly because your vent is clogged, your dryer is going to work harder and overheat. 

If your dryer is hot to the touch, make sure to get your dryer vent cleaned by a professional as soon as possible. 

4. Clothes are Super Hot After Drying

For the same reason the dryer is hot, your clothes may also be very hot after drying. The clogged dryer vent doesn't allow the moisture to escape, causing the dryer to work too hard and get very hot.

If your dryer won't dry your clothes correctly, your clothes may be too hot to even touch. Watch out for those especially hot metal buttons and zippers!

5. Burning Smell 

Lint is very flammable. When it builds up in the dryer vent it can create a burning smell.

If you notice a burning smell, stop the use of your dryer immediately. A fire could occur. 

Ready to Clean Your Dryer Vent?

If you suspect the dryer vent clogged up, get professional help immediately. 

For trusted assistance, contact us at Earth Friendly Air Duct Cleaning.