Prevent Fires and Cut Your Energy Bill! Expert Guide to Dryer Ducts

Don’t Risk a Fire Hazard

Lint buildup, plus the heating system inside a dryer, is a recipe for fire. One cause of lint buildup is neglect. 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 vent allows the dryer’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.

Thousands of dryer fires are caused by lint every year, yet they can be easily prevented with a few minutes of cleaning. Learn where lint is, how to get at it, and the best way to clean it out.