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Dirty Dryer Vents Are a Fire Hazard

Lint buildup, plus the heating system inside a dryer, is a recipe for fire. One cause of lint buildup is neglect. That’s why experts recommend cleaning your dryer vent at least once a year. A dryer and its vent need to be cleaned out regularly (experts recommend cleaning every year).

Another cause of lint buildup is a bad vent. A good dryer vent allows the machine’s exhaust (and lint!) to flow outside easily. A bad vent traps lint. A bad vent also costs you time and money. By restricting airflow, it slows down drying, forces the dryer to work harder and drives up your energy bill.

This article will help you recognize and correct problems with your dryer vent. In most situations, the materials cost for a completely new vent system is about $60.

WARNING! When lint catches fire, vinyl duct burns—and this is the result.

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Flexible Vinyl Dryer Duct

If you have this type of duct, replace it. The ridges inside impede airflow and trap lint. Worst of all, vinyl is flammable, a fire hazard. Some vinyl ducts have a silver coating to imitate metal foil. Don’t be fooled.

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