Your dryer works hard to keep your laundry routine quick and easy. But if you haven’t thought about cleaning your dryer vent, you could be risking more than just slow drying times.

Clogged dryer vents are one of the most common causes of house fires in the U.S. They also make your dryer work harder, raise your energy bills, and wear out your machine faster.

Let’s take a look at how often you should clean your dryer vent — and why it matters.

Why Dryer Vent Cleaning Matters

Every time you run your dryer, lint, dust, and moisture are pushed out through the vent. Even if you clean the lint trap after every load, small fibers still get through and build up inside the vent over time.

When the vent gets clogged:

• Air can’t escape properly
• The dryer gets too hot
• Lint can catch fire
• Drying takes longer and uses more energy

Keeping your vent clean isn’t just good for your dryer — it’s important for your safety.

How Often Should You Clean the Dryer Vent?

At least once a year is the general rule for most homes.

But in some cases, you’ll need to clean it more often. You should schedule more frequent cleanings if:

• You do laundry several times a week (large family)
• You have pets (pet hair adds to the lint buildup)
• Your dryer vent is long or has a lot of bends
• You notice any signs of poor airflow or heat buildup

For example, if you live in a suburban area like Westfield, NJ — where many homes have longer vent runs through basements or walls — lint can build up faster than expected.

Signs That It’s Time to Clean the Dryer Vent

You don’t always have to wait for the calendar. Your dryer will often give you clues that it’s time to act.

Watch for:

• Clothes taking longer to dry
• The dryer feels unusually hot to the touch
• A burning smell when the dryer is running
• Lint collecting behind or around the dryer
• The outdoor vent flap isn’t opening properly

If you notice any of these, don’t wait — schedule a cleaning as soon as possible.

What Happens If You Skip It?

Ignoring dryer vent cleaning can cause serious problems, including:

• Fire risk — Lint is highly flammable, and overheating can ignite it
• Higher energy bills — A clogged vent makes your dryer work longer and harder
• Appliance wear and tear — Overheating and long drying cycles reduce the dryer’s lifespan
• Poor air quality — Moisture and lint buildup can lead to mold and stale air inside your home

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that thousands of dryer fires happen each year, most of them due to lack of cleaning. Don’t let your home become a statistic.

Why It’s Best to Hire a Professional

Dryer vents often run through walls, crawlspaces, or long ductwork. Cleaning them fully and safely requires the right tools and know-how.

A professional cleaning service can:

• Remove all built-up lint and debris, even deep inside the vent
• Use special brushes and vacuums to reach hard-to-access spots
• Check for damage or leaks in the duct
• Make sure the airflow is working properly after the cleaning

It’s faster, more thorough, and much safer than doing it yourself.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your dryer vent may not be at the top of your to-do list, but it should be. It’s quick, affordable, and makes a big difference in safety and efficiency.

Our recommendation:

• Clean the dryer vent at least once a year
• Call a professional if you notice warning signs
• Don’t forget to check the outside vent every few months

Whether you live in New York City or in a quiet neighborhood like Westfield, NJ — regular dryer vent cleaning is one of the easiest ways to protect your home and your family.

Want help with your dryer vent?

We offer fast, affordable, and professional dryer vent cleaning services. Contact us today to schedule your appointment — and breathe easier knowing your home is safer.