Dryer vent installation Chicago: Dryer vent installation should be handled by a professional to ensure your dryer vent system is fire-safe and energy efficient. Proper dryer vent installation and annual maintenance prevents dryer fires and reduces energy costs. The clothes dryer is one of the most expensive appliances to operate. When dryer vents are clogged with lint or are improperly installed, more energy is wasted and they can be a fire hazard.
When moisture and lint are allowed to accumulate in the dryer vent system, air flow is restricted, causing your dryer to run longer, consuming more energy, as it labors to dry your laundry. Eventually, the entire system overheats or the dryer throws a spark and the flammable lint ignites.
Failure to clean dryer vents is the number one cause of dryer related fires. Another common cause is improperly installed dryer vent systems, or dryer vent systems of inferior material. Your dryer vent pipes should be replaced if:
• It is made of flexible foil or vinyl – these materials are no longer considered safe for dryer vents. Install dryer vents made of rigid metal for maximum air flow, safety and efficiency.
• It is very long – Longer dryer ducts allow moisture to condense, causing lint to stick to the sides of the dryer vent ducts and accumulate. The longer dryer ducts also cause your dryer to work harder to expel hot air.
• There are too many bends and turns – Bends and turns in the dryer duct slow air flow, causing the dryer to work harder.
• Sections are joined with screws – Screws protrude to the inside of the dryer vent pipe, catching lint and allowing it to build up and block air flow. Sections should be joined with metal tape so the inside of the dryer vent system is smooth.
• The laundry room is hot and humid – Leaks in the dryer vent ducts allow moisture to escape into your home, causing mold and mildew damage and upper respiratory problems for residents. In addition, if you have a gas dryer, you could also be in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• The dryer is vented into the crawl space, garage or attic – By law, all gas dryers must be vented outside! Venting heat and moisture to the crawl space or attic will cause mold and mildew damage to your home.
Proper dryer vent installation is important to reduce the risk of a dryer fire, improve the air quality in your home and ensure your clothes dryer is operating efficiently to save energy.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Chicago, Illinois 773.484.3509 North Side Chicago and North Shore Suburbs, Cook and Lake Counties, Evanston, Wilmette, Glenview, Deerfield, Gurnee, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire and neighboring cities and communities.
