If you’re an average homeowner with an ever-expanding to-do list, there’s one task that might not be getting the attention it deserves: cleaning your dryer vent.
You may be wondering why this mundane chore is so significant.
Well, consider this alarming statistic from the National Fire Protection Agency: nearly 17,000 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year, resulting in a staggering $236 million in property damage.
Isn’t that just dreadful? Take a clear look at this eye-opening figure… you may wonder if maintaining a dryer vent is just as important as any other home chore!
But here’s the big question: can you perform the dryer vent cleaning all on your own? Or should you call up a dryer vent professional to perform the cleaning? In this article, we are going to talk about both situations.
We will then let you decide which course of action is the best-suited for you.
The DIY Method
For homeowners looking to take matters into their own hands, there’s a straightforward method for cleaning your dryer vent that can save you both time and money.
If your dryer is conveniently situated along an exterior wall and you only have a short length of dryer vent between the wall and its outdoor exit, you’re in luck – this task can be accomplished with relative ease.
To get started, simply disconnect your dryer from the transition line (that flexible duct connecting the dryer to the wall) and take it outdoors for cleaning.
If you happen to have an electric leaf blower on hand, you’re well-equipped for the job. Bring the leaf blower indoors and use it to force air through your dryer vent, effectively blowing out the accumulated lint to the great outdoors.
Next, head outside and repeat the process with the transition line. A thorough check to ensure all lint has been cleared, a re-connection of all components, and voilà, your dryer vent is now clean and ready for action.
This straightforward method can help ensure your home remains safe from potential fire hazards while keeping your dryer operating at peak efficiency.
The Professional Method
On the other hand, you can always reach out to a professional dryer vent cleaner.
They usually perform the cleaning using a high-powered compressed air coming from a vacuum collector which breaks down the dirt, debris and other particles that are stuck within the dryer vent.
They also use rotary cleaning tools to clear out the debris from within the dryer vent.
While the DIY approach to dryer vent cleaning can be effective for some, there are compelling reasons why homeowners might opt-in for a professional service. One of the significant advantages of hiring a professional dryer vent cleaner lies in their preparedness to handle challenges that could prove difficult otherwise to a professional dryer vent service.
A prime example of this is dealing with stubborn clogs or unexpected obstacles like birds’ nests within your dryer vent. A homeowner might experience difficulty in clearing out such debris from a dryer vent space; however, a professional equipped with the right cleaning tools and enough experience will successfully break through the clog and safely remove such obstructions easily.
Most DIY tricks and kits might not be able to serve you in the best of ways.
Read More: Signs of a Clogged Dryer Vent & How to Address Them
About Alpha Clean Air
Alpha Clean Air has helped many homes and business owners in the NY and NJ region by cleaning their dryer vents for good. Whether there’s a major lint build up or any other type of obstruction blocking the dryer vent’s path, our team can clear the obstruction for you. We are NADCA & QUADCA certified with years of experience in dryer vent cleaning. Dial (888) 502-3828 and get a free consultation.
