More than 2,900 fires are caused in American homes by clothes dryers every year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, a branch of FEMA. The primary cause is the failure to clean out lint traps and dryer vents.
This tragic result is an estimated five deaths per year and more than 100 injuries, FEMA officials said. It’s true that most people -- as a matter of common-sense practice -- always remember to clean out their lint traps. But the vent may be another matter. That’s why experts recommend that homeowners hire a professional service to check and clean dryer vents.
Many people clean their own vents, but the only way to be sure the job is done right is to allow trained professional technicians to do the job. Getting it done right means you can rest easy and know your family is protected from a fire in the home. In addition to basic safety, a professionally cleaned dryer vent bestows several additional benefits, including:
Fewer breakdowns
Clean vents mean your dryer works more efficiently without having to deal with clogs that foster wear and tear on the appliance. Keeping the vents clean means an extended lifespan for the dryer and that, in turn, means you don’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars for a new unit sooner than you want to.
More Efficient Drying
Clean vents translate to energy savings because drying gets done faster. A vent clogged with lint makes it difficult for humid air to escape. Humid air contains the moisture you’re trying to get rid of to dry your clothes. With clean vents, you don’t wait as long to get your domestic chores done.
Lower Energy Bills
Again, clean vents save money because drying is faster and more efficient. The average dryer in the U.S. is rated at 2,000 to 6,000 watts. This means they use between two and six kilowatts per hour. The average cost for a kilowatt in the U.S, is 16.09¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh). A dryer that is as power-efficient as possible adds up to significant savings over the period of a year.
If you think that it is time to have your dryer vents professionally cleaned, reach out to Strouse Home Inspections today!
By Strouse Home Inspections 1-10-2023
