How Colder Weather Impacts Your Dryer Vent

Did you know that your dryer vent can be a fire hazard if it isn’t cleaned properly? Without regular cleaning, lint makes its way out of the internal lint trap and into your dryer vent. The combination of loose lint buildup and warm air is a recipe for disaster.

The risk of a fire happening in your dryer vent is highest in the winter for several reasons. If you aren’t already cleaning your dryer vent regularly, now is the time to start – here’s why.

Winter Fabrics Cause More Lint Buildup

Sweaters, blankets, and other winter laundry items are usually made from thick, heavy fabrics. While these fabrics will definitely help keep you cozy on warm days, they also are prone to shedding and pilling, both in and out of the laundry. These fabrics can cause your lint trap to fill up quickly. Even if you empty your lint trap regularly, some buildup may still make its way into your dryer vent.

Vented Dryers Can Cause Condensation

If you have a vented dryer, it’s very important to make sure the vents are directed outside. If they aren’t, the vent will blow warm air directly into your home. If you live in a humid area or use a humidifier indoors, this warm air will cause condensation on nearby surfaces.

Depending on the temperature of your home, you may notice that condensation freezes during the winter months.

Nearby Washers Can Freeze

When your laundry appliances are placed in your basement or other cold areas of your home, the pumps and drums for your washer can freeze and become icy. When this ice eventually melts, it can leave your entire laundry area wet, and water can even make its way into your dryer, causing a huge mess and increasing the risk of a fire.

How To Prevent Dryer Vent Fires

Because lint buildup is a serious fire hazard, keeping your dryer vent clean is extremely important. Make sure you’re cleaning out your lint trap every single time you use your dryer, even for small loads.

However, even with regular cleaning, it’s still possible to end up with lint buildup in your dryer vent. Because of this, you should make sure to schedule a professional cleaning at least once per year. A professional will remove excess lint buildup, and they can also make any necessary repairs to keep your dryer in great condition.

Here at A1 Chimney, we offer dryer cleaning and repair services as well as a variety of chimney installation and maintenance services. If you’re in southern middle Tennessee or the Tennessee Valley and you’re worried about dryer vent buildup, we’re here to help. Contact us at 931-967-3595 in Tennessee or 256-285-4895 in Alabama to schedule an appointment.