If you live in a house, it's essential to inspect the ventilation grille regularly. Unscrew and extract the lint from the grille, and then put the cover back on. But how do you know if the dryer vent is blocked? One of the most common signs is that clothes will take much longer to dry. Try vacuuming the vent multiple times to solve the issue.
If it is completely clogged, the dryer won't be able to work at all. A clogged vent traps heat and moisture in the dryer, creating an ideal home for mold and mildew. This unpleasant smell can serve as a warning that you should check the ventilation system. Honest Lee Handyman Services specializes in cleaning gutters and ventilation grilles of dryers, in addition to repairing accessories, fences, drywall, and toilets.
It's easy to forget about the dryer vent that's in the back and can't be seen, but it's just as important to keep it clean and free. If you take your clothes out of the dryer after a cycle and they're still damp, it's time to clean the dryer's vent. When the ventilation grille is clogged, it can cause the dryer to operate less efficiently and can even damage the appliance. To maintain your dryer in top condition and avoid occasional clogs, make it a habit to clean the dryer's vents at least once a year.
The lint that has accumulated over time not only affects the operation of the dryer ventilation, but can also pose a fire hazard. Birds, rodents, and other animals can live in the warm, protected environment of the dryer vent. When the dryer ventilation grille is clogged, you have to work hard to dry your clothes, which means that you overwork and produce this burning smell. If your dryer vent is clogged with lint and who knows what else, the first step is to locate and open both sides of the vent to remove the clog.
Many times, this type of clog is easy to fix by simply cleaning all ventilation grilles and open spaces. Below are some of the top warning signs to look out for when trying to determine if the dryer vent is clogged: clothes taking longer than usual to dry; an unpleasant smell coming from your laundry room; burning smell when drying clothes; birds or rodents living in or around your dryer vent. A blocked or clogged dryer vent prevents the machine from working properly and can even cause a house fire. Another source of clogging may be objects that have fallen into the lint trap or even an animal could be blocking it.
This can be removed by vacuuming all the vents, but if it happens again, you may need to replace the dryer vent. As an expert in home maintenance, I recommend inspecting your dryer vent regularly for any signs of blockage or clogging. Cleaning out lint from your grille should be done at least once a year as part of your regular home maintenance routine. If you notice any of these warning signs - clothes taking longer than usual to dry; an unpleasant smell coming from your laundry room; burning smell when drying clothes; birds or rodents living in or around your dryer vent - then it's time to take action and clean out your dryer vent.
Vacuuming out all vents should do the trick but if it happens again then you may need to replace your dryer vent. Taking these steps will help ensure that your appliance runs efficiently and safely.
