Is your dryer working harder than it should? If your laundry takes a long time to dry or your dryer feels hot, it’s not just annoying. It could be a serious fire risk.
Dryer vent buildup is one of the leading causes of house fires in Canada. While there are DIY methods, skipping a professional cleaning can leave dangerous lint buildup. You might not even know it is there.
Here’s what you need to know to protect your home, plus seven simple tips to keep your dryer vent, and your family, safe.
Why dryer vent cleaning matters
Even if you clean your lint trap regularly, lint still escapes into the dryer duct. Over time, this buildup restricts airflow, causes overheating, and can even ignite — making it a major fire risk.
Professional dryer vent cleaning keeps your system completely cleared and working safely.
Warning signs your dryer vent is clogged
These red flags could mean your vent is due for a cleaning:
- Clothes are still damp after a full cycle
- Laundry comes out unusually hot
- The dryer or laundry room feels hot or humid
- You notice a burnt smell
- The outside vent flap barely opens when the dryer runs
If you notice any of these, it’s time to take action.
Should you DIY or call in the pros?
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Yes, you can clean your dryer vent yourself — but it takes time, the right tools, and a fair bit of effort. Without a proper brush kit, flexible rods, and a powerful vacuum, it’s hard to reach the deep lint that causes most problems.
If your dryer vent goes through walls or ceilings, hiring a professional is the safer choice. This gives you peace of mind.
What a professional dryer vent cleaning includes
A trained technician will:
- Inspect your full dryer vent system
- Use commercial-grade tools to remove all lint and blockages
- Test for proper airflow
- Check and clean the outdoor vent cap
- Reseal and reconnect everything securely
They’ll also spot problems you might miss, like disconnected ducts or crushed vents that reduce efficiency.
7 essential dryer vent safety tips
1. Clean the lint trap after every load
This one’s simple but crucial. Lint builds up fast — and cleaning it every time prevents it from traveling deeper into the system.
2. Only run your dryer when you're home and awake
Never run your dryer overnight or when you’re out. If something goes wrong, you want to be there to catch it.
3. Schedule a deep vent cleaning at least twice a year
Regular cleaning — ideally by a pro — keeps your system efficient and safe. Households with kids or pets may want to clean more often.
4. Keep the area around your dryer clear
Don't store boxes, clothes, or chemicals near the dryer. It reduces fire risk and improves airflow.
5. Check your outdoor vent flap regularly
It should open freely when the dryer is running. If it’s stuck or blocked, lint may be backing up inside.
6. Upgrade to rigid metal ducts if needed
Old accordion-style foil or plastic ducts are a fire hazard. Replace them with rigid metal ducts for better safety and performance.
7. Install a hardwired smoke and CO detector
This is a smart, added layer of protection — especially for gas dryers. Hardwired detectors stay powered, and alert you early if something goes wrong.
Bonus peace of mind: Get a home protection plan
Dryer repairs can be expensive. A Home Protection Plan helps pay for unexpected breakdowns of your dryer, washer, and other important appliances.
We offer:
Safety first
Dryer vent cleaning is a simple step that can literally prevent a fire. Whether you do it yourself or leave dryer vent cleaning to the pros, make sure it’s part of your home maintenance routine. And for the safest setup possible, combine regular cleanings with a hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide detector.
