Dryer vents clog slowly. Lint piles up little by little, until airflow drops, heat builds up, and your dryer turns into a risk most people don’t even think about. The longer it goes unchecked, the harder your machine has to work—and the more you’ll pay for it. In serious cases, it’s not just money on the line. Dryer fires are a real threat, and neglected vents are a common cause. Here’s what you should know about how and when to clean your dryer vent.
Why Dryer Vents Get Dangerous
Your lint trap doesn’t catch everything. As warm air exits the dryer, it carries loose fibers with it. That lint sticks to the inside of the vent pipe, usually in hidden sections where you won’t see the buildup until it’s already a problem. Once airflow slows down, your dryer starts overheating. That excess heat dries out the lint even more, which makes it easier to ignite. All it takes is one spark.
The fire risk is serious, but even without a flame, blocked vents still cause damage. Clothes take longer to dry. Energy use climbs. The dryer runs hotter and wears out faster. Most people don’t realize how much efficiency they’re losing until they clean the vent and suddenly everything works better.
Signs It’s Time to Clean the Vent
If you’re running multiple cycles just to get things dry, that’s your warning. Same goes for a dryer that feels hotter than usual or leaves clothes damp at the end of the cycle. A burning smell is a red flag that needs attention immediately. You might also notice lint collecting around the outside vent or longer dry times that gradually get worse.
These aren’t just annoyances. They’re early signs that your dryer vent is choking.
How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent?
Once a year is a good baseline for most homes. Larger households or homes with pets may need it done every six months. If you’ve never had it cleaned and can’t remember when it was last done, assume it’s overdue.
Professional cleanings are quick, inexpensive, and thorough. You can also clean it yourself if you have the right tools and know how to disconnect and reattach the vent properly. But half-done cleanings won’t solve the problem. The blockage is usually deeper than you think.
Cleaning the lint trap after every load matters too—but it’s not enough on its own. The vent behind the dryer is where the real danger builds.
A Routine That Pays Off
Dryer vent cleaning doesn’t need to be complicated. Set a reminder, include it in regular maintenance, and don’t ignore the warning signs. You’ll dry clothes faster, cut down on energy waste, and reduce fire risk in one move. For something that takes under an hour, it’s one of the most valuable maintenance tasks you can do.
Taylor Inspection Services offers professional home inspection services in Jacksonville and surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule an inspection today.