Dryer ducts are a necessary evil. They transport heat and moisture away from your home, keeping your house safe and dry. But they’re also among the ugliest parts of your home. Unless you have an eyesore of a dryer like this one, you probably don’t spend much time thinking about it. However, as with any part of your home, a clogged dryer duct can lead to some serious problems. A clogged duct doesn’t just reduce airflow; it also increases the risk of fire, poses the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning, and makes for an uncomfortable living space in general. If you notice any of these signs that you should hire a dryer duct cleaning company sooner rather than later, contact
You Smell Burning Rubber
If you smell burning rubber while your dryer is running, something is very wrong. Rubber and other components of your duct can melt or burn, causing whatever debris is clogging your duct to become even more compacted and trapped, which could lead to a fire. A duct cleaning should fix this problem. If the smell continues after the duct cleaning, it could be because something else is wrong, like a lint trap that is not working properly, so be sure to have a professional thoroughly inspect your system to make sure everything is safe. If you smell burning rubber but there is no fire, the smell is likely caused by overheated lint and/or fabric softener sheets that have melted together inside your lint trap or dryer duct. Your dryer is trying to tell you that there is something wrong, and it is struggling to get the job done.
Condensation Coating Your Windows
Dryer venting typically goes through your roof, so if you start noticing condensation on the windows, it could be a sign that your ductwork is blocked. When warm, moist air is unable to escape, it will start to cool down. The cooler air will then draw in colder air from outside, which will be warm enough to create condensation. The good news is that this is one of the easiest signs to identify. If you notice condensation on your windows, it’s incredibly likely that your dryer duct is blocked, and cleaning should do the trick.
Your Drying Times Have Increased Significantly
If you’ve noticed that your clothes are taking longer to dry than they used to, there is a good chance that you have a clogged duct. Clothes take longer to dry when there is less airflow carrying the heat away from the dryer. If your duct is blocked, airflow is reduced, so expect some added drying time. If your duct is just dirty, cleaning will help. But if it’s blocked, you may need to get it replaced. If your clothes are taking longer to dry than they did when you first moved in, there are a few other things you can check to see if your ducts are blocked. One thing you can do is open the dryer door when the machine is running, then quickly shut it. If you notice a drop in the noise level of your dryer, it might be an indication that your ducts are blocked. Another thing you can do is lift up the lint trap during the drying cycle. If you notice that the clothes are not drying, the ducts are likely blocked.
Your Home Feels Constantly Hot Or Cold
If your home feels constantly hot or cold, it could be an indication that your ducts are blocked. When air isn’t flowing through the ducts properly, it won’t be able to regulate the temperature of your home. This is especially likely if you’ve recently had a guest stay over who has a different thermostat setting than you. If the ducts are blocked, the temperature throughout your home will be inconsistent. If you’ve noticed that the temperature in your home is inconsistent, it’s best to have your ductwork checked. A clogged duct will prevent the temperature inside your home from being adequately regulated.
Your Dryer Is Constantly Running Or Humming
If your dryer is constantly running or humming, it could be an indication that there is something wrong with your ducts. If your ducts are clogged, there will be less airflow, meaning that the dryer will have to work harder to get the clothes dry. This can cause your dryer to run for longer periods of time, so you may be able to notice the difference. If your dryer is humming, it could be because the ducts are clogged. If this is the case, duct cleaning should help. However, if the humming only occurs once the machine has finished its cycle, something else may be causing it.
Other Signs That May Mean A Duct Cleaning Is Needed
Frequent trips to the laundromat: If you find yourself needing to go to the laundromat more often than usual, it could be an indication that your ducts are clogged. Excessive soiling on your laundry, as well as longer drying times, can be signs that your ducts are clogged.
Your utility bills have mysteriously gone up: If you’ve noticed that your utility bills have increased, it could be because of a clogged duct. A clogged duct will reduce airflow, so your clothes won’t dry as quickly, meaning it will take longer for them to be ready to be folded and put away.
You’re having problems with your dryer: Dryer ducts can break down over time, so if you notice that your machine isn’t working properly, this could be an indication that your ducts are clogged.
