While often overlooked, dryer vents and exhaust ducts play an essential role in optimal dryer operation and performance . However, accumulated lint buildup within vents and ducts over time can significantly impair dryer function. Fortunately, professional dryer vent cleaning restores maximum vent capacity for improved drying efficiency and shorter cycles. Here are some ways clean dryer vents boost appliance performance.
Lint Buildup Clogs Vents
Over the lifetime of a dryer, over 200 pounds of lint can accumulate within vents and ducts.
This built-up lint restricts the cross-sectional area of vents, reducing the diameter by as much 25 to 40 percent in some cases. As a result, less air can pass through to exhaust hot, moist air from the dryer drum.
Longer Drying Times
Because trapped moisture cannot exit as quickly through clogged vents, dryers must run longer to complete cycles. In fact, studies show severely blocked vents can increase drying time by 30 to 50 percent (Energy.gov, n.d.). The dryer has to work extra hard to accomplish the same task, wearing outcomponents faster and costing more to operate.
Reduced Airflow and Efficiency
Beyond longer cycles, restricted airflow through vents and ducts due to lint also decreases a dryer’s efficiency. Less air passing through means less capacity to remove moisture from damp fabrics(Baechler, 2019). This impairs the dryer’s ability to do its job, requiring even longer run times.
Professional Cleaning Benefits
By thoroughly removing built-up lint and restoring the original vent cross-sectional area, professional dryer vent cleaning negates all the issues that clogged vents create. Homeowners then experience:
Faster drying cycles due to maximum venting capacity
Improved efficiency from optimized airflow and moisture removal
Reduced utility costs from shortened drying times
Longer appliance lifespan through less strain on the dryer motor
In conclusion, clean dryer vents are essential to ensuring optimal efficiency, performance and drying speed from clothes dryers. Regular professional cleaning removes accumulated lint that restricts airflow and prolongs drying cycles over time. Homeowners benefit greatly from having vents and ducts periodically restored to like-new condition through shorter.