Why Dryer Vent Cleaning is So Important
We don’t want to scare you. We know you remove the lint from your dryer filter each time you dry your clothes.
However, despite your best efforts, lint still escapes into your venting tube where it can get stuck. With time, this lint builds up, decreasing your dryer’s energy efficiency, and, in some occasions, even causes fire.
According to a 2007 Ontario Fire Marshall report, between 1996 and 2003 the province had an average of 213 fires, eight injuries, and homeowners faced $1.9 million in losses each year due to clothes dryer fires. Maintenance and installation issues such as lint blockage and buildup were responsible for a third of these fires.
“In most cases, clothes dryer fires can be prevented. ‘Failure to clean’ is the number one factor contributing to clothes dryer fires, followed by mechanical and electrical failure.”
Source: U.S. Fire Administration (2007). “Clothes Dryer Fires in Residential Buildings”. |
The statistics in the United States on a per year basis from 2002 – 2004 are alarming.
- 12,700 clothes dryer fires in residential buildings
- 15 deaths, as a result
- 300 injuries
- $88 million in property loss
Most unfortunate of all, a 2007 U.S. Fire Administration report notes, the majority of these incidents could have been averted.
A Clogged Up Dryer Wastes Energy
Beyond this worst-case scenario, the chances are good that a blocked dryer vent will raise your electricity and gas costs. A blocked vent forces your dryer to work harder to get the hot air it needs to dry your clothes. The harder it works, the more electricity or gas it requires, and the higher your bill. The same thing happens to your furnace and air conditioner when your duct work is clogged.
Let our technicians ensure your venting is clean and clear. Thanks to our red carpet service, you can be sure we’ll quickly clean your dryer vent leaving no mess behind.