Don't Let This Happen To You & Your Family!
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Apex Duct And Chimney Cleaning are experts in handling any set up-single family residence, condominium, townhouse or commercial facility. If you have never had your dryer exhaust vents cleaned or it's been a few of years, have the dryer vent cleaned today! This is a service that is often overlooked and could cause water damage, possible fire hazard, health risk, higher electrical costs and even damage to the dryer. We commonly retrieve 2 -- 5 gallons of lint, and a lot of times 2 - 4 gallons of water, from dryer vents when cleaning them.
Clogged dryer vents are the leading cause of residential fires in the U.S. According to the Consumer Products Saftey Commission, there are an estimated annual 15,500 fires, 10 deaths, 310 injuries and over $84,000,000 in property damage resulting from clothes dryers.
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The lack of maintenance is the leading cause of dryer fires, and LINT is the main material to ignite. These fires can be caused by failure of mechanical and/or electrical parts within the dryer itself. Also improper materials being put into the dryer, and insufficient airflow as a result of improper installation.
Reduced airflow and the resulting lint build/up can cause overheating by preventing a fast/enough drying action. The high temperature limit safety switch has to cycle on and off to control the heater. High temperature limit switches were never designed to cycle on and off continuously which can cause them to fail over a period of time.
(IAQ) is a major issue for building owners and accumulation of lint and reduced exhaust airflow provide conditions make for a fire.
Benefits Of Dryer Exhaust Vent Cleaning
Efficiency - A normal and clean exhaust vent allows discharge of the heat, moisture and combustion by-products in the case of a gas-fired dryer without resistance. The resistance will increase back pressure in the system. Without good exhaust flow-throughout the system, clothes will take much longer to dry resulting in wasted energy, natural resources, and time. The results will show up in increased utility costs.
Appliance wear - If a dryer takes twice as long to dry clothes as normal, the number of loads of clothes it will dry is cut in half. The client will effectively only receive half the dryer's service life. When the dryer is running at unnecessarily higher temperatures this can decrease that life even more. This can lead to the heating element burning out or a fire could ignite as a result of worn out saftey controls.
Proper Airflow - Proper airflow venting can decrease drying time and decrease operating costs. Proper airflow helps prevent the dryer from operating on its high temperature safety limit control. Vinyl and foil duct venting materials can easily collapse when installed. The use of proper venting materials to achieve maximum performance may also extend the life of the dryer and increase the life of clothing due to lower drying temperatures.
Reduced Maintenance and Energy Costs - To effectively allow dryer performance is at optimal airflow. A properly installed all-metal dryer vent will ensure this airflow. When clothes are given the appropriate amount of air, they dry quicker and are subject to less tumbling. This will result in less wear on the clothing and less use of electricity or gas.
Failure to properly maintain your dryer vents can cause damage to your dryer.
Check your local codes - Many state and local municipalities have placed requirements on new and remodeling projects to include all metal dryer venting.
Important Tips:
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Do not store your fire extinguisher on top or around your clothes dryer! You will NOT be able to get to the fire extinguisher in the event of a fire if it is stored on top of or around your clothes dryer. | ||
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Most dryer exhaust venting requires a regular maintenance program normally every 2 to 3 years. It is also important to have your dryer taken apart and serviced by a qualified experienced technician. | ||
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Never leave the house with the dryer running. | ||
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Never go to bed with the dryer running. | ||
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Do not use a stocking over the end of a gas dryer's connector hose risking carbon monoxide poisoning. | ||
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Contact a dryer vent exhaust professional if the dryer feels hot to the touch and is not drying the clothes in one cycle. | ||
Some Warning Signs
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Are your clothes taking longer to dry? | ||
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Does the dryer seem to get hotter to the touch than it used to? | ||
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Are you noticing a burning smell when the dryer is on? | ||
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Is there condensation (moisture) buildup on the inside of the dryer door? | ||
It's usually the dryer exhaust vent being restricted that is causing the clothes not to dry in one cycle.
Any of these conditions will cause the dryer to run inefficiently. Many times, there are more than one condition exists in the same system.
This not only results in higher energy costs and your dryer wearing out faster, and also does put you at considerably greater risk of a dryer fire.
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US Fire Association Report
[PDF Format]
How Much Does A Clogged Dryer Cost You?
| A typical clothes dryer uses 900 Kwh per year @ 8.3 cents per Kwh,which equals to |
| $74.70 per year |
| If your clothes take 2 cycles to dry, your energy cost "doubles" to |
| $149.40 per year |
| If your clothes take 3 cycles to dry, your energy cost "triples" to |
| $224.10 per year |
Money Saved In Energy Use Can Pay For The Cost Of A Cleaning!
"Appliances account for about 20% of your household's energy consumption with refrigerators, clothes washers, and clothes dryers at the top of the consumption list." *
* Quote and Chart from U.S. Department of Energy Web Site
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What Causes Dryer Fires?
Lack of maintenance is the major factor contributing to fires, but poor installation and/or the use of improper vent material also play a role. A dryer's lint filter catches only a fraction of the lint produced in the drying process, although some are better than others. Over time, the lint accumulates throughout the dryer and the vent system, reducing airflow, which causes the dryer to operate at elevated temperatures, thereby increasing the chance of something malfunctioning and/or the lint catching on fire. Dryer fires usually start beneath or inside the appliance. The draft from the dryer then forces the fire into the exhaust vent and, in many cases, causes a house fire. The probability of the fire spreading greatly increases with the use of plastic or Mylar (foil) vents, with plastic being the most hazardous.
According to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission research, a 75% blocked dryer exhaust vent elevates the exhaust air temperature of the average electric dryer 89% more than its normal operating temperature with an unblocked vent.
Not everyone realizes the hazards presented by the clothes dryer exhaust system. All too often, dryer exhausts vents are not given due respect. They receive little to no consideration in the design stage, are often installed haphazardly, and are seldom maintained. Once installed, the vents are rarely given another thought. Current lax attitudes about dryer exhaust vents need to change!
These are just a few photos of what I have found out in the field. It's amazing what we find out in client's homes. Some are so lucky they don't have a home fire and/or worse yet, loss of life.
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Why Now?
Historically, clothes dryers were located a short distance from an outside wall. Their short, straight exhaust vent runs worked well, leaving little need for maintenance and making inspecting easy.
Today, I find laundry rooms located practically anywhere in the home. It's commonplace to find the dryer installed on an upper level with a long, concealed run including several elbows, often resulting in slowed and restrictive airflow. Given the tightness of modern homes, proper handling of dryer exhaust has become even more critical than it was in older homes that breathed.
Problem Conditions
Most often, the dryer is pushed as close to a wall as possible, with a crushed or kinked transition duct, which immediately slows the flow of air and creates a trap for lint to collect. The transition duct should not exceed eight feet in length, should be of UL-approved material (not plastic), limited to a single length, and not have any part concealed within construction. Periscope-type connectors (sometimes called Banjos) eliminate the common problem of kinked and crushed transition ducts behind the dryer. Metal foil tape should be used on the ends of the periscope to seal any cracks. Air leakage disrupts the efficient flow of air.
Dryer exhaust vents in many homes tend to sag because they are not guided through the rafters or otherwise properly supported, make sharp turns or roller coaster up and down. This creates turbulence, preventing all the moisture and lint from blowing out. The common spiral-ribbed flexible vents by mere design create turbulence and reduce airflow. All too often, the termination sleeve on this type of vent gets bent inward when it's installed, creating a dam for lint to snag. Some older termination hoods are restrictive by design, not allowing the damper to fully open. These common conditions, as well as exceeding recommended lengths and failing to perform routine maintenance, all increase the potential for lint becoming trapped within the vent system, leading to blockage.
What's Being Done To Help Reduce Dryer Fire Risks?
The slow elimination of dangerous dryer exhausting products from the market over the last two decades has been the most significant step toward reducing fires. Years ago, the standard dryer vent was a white vinyl spiral wire vent. Not only was the vinyl susceptible to overheating and melting, the spiral "ribbed" construction created turbulence, reducing airflow, leading to lint accumulations within the ribs.
A Mylar-covered spiral wire vent replaced the white vinyl vent. Mylar is a shiny metallic-coated polyester film (often called foil), and it is slightly more heat-resistant than vinyl, but still presents potential problems for many of the same reasons.
The use of metal exhaust vents is now the widely accepted standard, recommended and/or required by Underwriters Laboratory (UL), the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission, most (if not all) dryer manufacturers and most building codes. The use of an all-metal (rigid or semi-rigid) dryer exhaust vent helps to achieve optimal airflow, reducing lint buildup and reducing the operating temperatures of the dryer.
Warning Signs!
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Clothes take an unusually long time to dry. | ||
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Clothes are hotter than usual at the end of the cycle. | ||
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Outside of dryer is unusually hot. | ||
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Damper (or flappers) on exhaust termination doesn't open or barely opens when dryer is on. | ||
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Laundry room feels warmer or more humid than normal. | ||
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Unexplained moisture stains appear in concealed dryer exhaust vent area. | ||
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Burnt smells in laundry room. | ||
Current Industry Standards
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The dryer exhaust system must be independent of all other systems and convey the moisture and any products of combustion to the outside of the home. The vent must not exhaust to attics, crawl spaces, basements, chimneys, the cavity of any wall or any interior room.
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Dryer vent must be at least 4 inches in diameter or at least the size of the dryer outlet. The exhaust vent must not extend into or through (HVAC) vents or plenums. The exhaust vent system should be supported and secured.
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The maximum length for a clothes dryer exhaust vent should not exceed 25 feet. This length should be decreased by 2.5 feet for every 45-degree bend the vent makes, and 5 feet for every 90-degree bend the vent makes. This does not include the transition duct.
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The dryer exhaust vent should be constructed of rigid metal (aluminum or galvanized steel). The interior of the vent should be smooth surfaced with the joints running in the direction of the airflow. There should be no sheet-metal screws, rivets or any other fastener used to connect the vent joints. Fasteners that extend into the airway will catch lint and obstruct airflow. Clamps or foil duct tape should be used to secure joints.
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Outside termination must be equipped with a back draft damper, which prevents moisture/air intrusion and the entry of small animals. The termination must not have a screen covering the exhaust outlet.
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Exception
When the manufacturer is unknown or the instructions are unavailable, industry standards and good practices provide guidance on how exhaust systems should be configured.
Good Practice
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If possible, rigid aluminum or rigid galvanized steel duct should be used (especially if concealed). If flexible metal duct must be used, use the semi-rigid type.
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The dryer vent should be as straight and short as possible. Minimize 90-degree turns. Sharp turns cause back pressure and create resistance to airflow. Two 45-degree bends are more efficient than one 90-degree bend. For best performance, separate all turns by 4 feet of straight vent. Duct joints should be wrapped with foil tape to make air and moisture tight. Avoid the gray duct tape as it will deteriorate over time.
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The hood should have at least 12 inches of clearance between the bottom of the hood and the ground or other obstruction. The hood opening should point down.
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Ducts should always have adequate support, especially at each joint.
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A dryer vent should never exhaust near the fresh air intake of a high-efficiency furnace, water heater or any (HVAC) intake.
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Rigid seamed exhaust vent ideally should be installed with the seams up to prevent any accumulation of condensation from seeping out. When possible, horizontal runs of dryer vents should slope slightly downward (1/4 inch per foot) toward the exterior termination to reduce the possibility of condensation accumulating and collecting lint.
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In cold climates, insulating the dryer exhaust vent in unheated spaces may help to limit the condensation from forming inside the vent and collecting lint. Note: At least one dryer manufacturer specifies this in its installation instructions.
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Exhausting a dryer near or next to an air conditioning or heat pump condensing unit should be avoided. The expelled lint can collect and clog the condenser fins and will likely require continual condenser cleaning.
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Be Aware
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The common Mylar (foil) and white plastic spiral flexible vents contribute to poor dryer performance. These spiral ducts are no longer recommended and will void the warranty of most (if not all) dryers, if used.
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The use of PVC pipe is not recommended, and is against all standards and specifications. As the lint, air and moisture passes through the PVC it staticly charges and will increase the buildup of lint.
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Magnetic dampers on exhaust hoods are restrictive and should not be used on dryer exhaust systems.
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Venting up or through the roof, although possible, should be the next to last choice. These systems clog up faster and demand close monitoring and routine cleaning for safety and efficiency "Fighting Gravity".
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Venting under the slab of the home, although possible, should be the very last choice. These systems clog up faster and demand close monitoring and routine cleaning for safety and efficiency. It is extremely difficult for the moister and lint to vent from routining this way and I have routinely removed over 2 gallons of water from systems that were routed this way.
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Dryer exhausting through the roof should be ducted to a special dryer roof vent without screen. The roof vent or louvered plenum must be equivalent to a 4 inch wall termination in regard to resistance to airflow and back-flow prevention, and should require little or no maintenance to prevent clogging.
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The older dryer exhaust hood terminations have a 2- 1/2 inch hood opening that is restrictive by design often clogging and sticking open. The newer versions have a full 4 inch hood opening or a series of flappers allowing unrestrictive exhausting and improved performance.
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Mobile home exhaust vents must be secured to the home and should not discharge under the home.
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Clothes dryers require make-up air; if the laundry area is too tight, it will affect the operation and function of the dryer exhausting. In addition, dryers operating in utility areas with gas appliances that lack sufficient make-up air can create a dangerous back-drafting (CO) problem.
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What About Vent Buckets Or Lint Traps?
Dryer Exhaust Boosters
Dryers Deserve A Closer Look
People die, property is destroyed & energy is wasted
as a result of inadequate or clogged dryer vents.
Why Exhausting Is Critical
Moisture... a minimum of 1/2 gallon or more of water must be disposed of for every typical load of laundry. Because of the moisture, exhausting the dryer to the outside is a must. Indoor exhausting can create conditions that support mold growth and degrade indoor air quality.
Carbon Monoxide... Proper exhausting is of particular importance with gas dryers. In addition to moisture and lint, a gas dryer's exhaust vent carries the byproducts of combustion, including carbon monoxide.
Clogging... A lot of lint is produced during the drying process, and lint can restrict or block dryer vents. A poorly exhausting dryer is not only less efficient, it can also be a fire hazard due to the extreme flammability of lint. Clogging can also cause moisture to accumulate and seep out the vent, leading to moisture damage.
Suggestions For Clients
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Have dryer and exhaust vents inspected and cleaned biennial or sooner if you notice a change in drying time. | ||
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Always follow the dryer manufacturer's recommendations. | ||
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If the exhaust vent system is not up to current standard, have it replaced or corrected. | ||
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It is good practice to always run the dryer long enough so that the last few minutes push only hot, dry air into the vent. This will help to clear out any remaining moisture.
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Install a fire extinguisher in laundry area, but not over the dryer. | ||
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Install smoke alarm in laundry area. | ||
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Install (CO) alarm in laundry area (Gas dryer only). | ||
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Clean lint filter before every cycle. | ||
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Replace a damaged lint filter. | ||
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Monitor exterior termination for flapper function and airflow. | ||
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Use caution not to crush or kink transition duct behind dryer. | ||
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Never operate a dryer while sleeping or away from home. | ||
Why Not - Do It Yourself (DIY)?
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It exposes you to dangerous microorganisms hiding in your dryer exhaust vent.
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It could be dangerous to people who do not know the safety precautions involving large appliances.
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You may not know how to adequately clean the dryer exhaust vent out properly, leaving much lint and debris behind.
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Cleaning the dryer exhaust vent is not the same as cleaning the lint from your dryer lint trap. The process involves getting into the back of your dryer intake system and this is more dangerous than simply cleaning the lint out of the main filter area.
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You need professionals who are used to this process and who are experienced to handle these kinds of cleaning jobs, to avoid the risk to yourself or your family by doing it yourself.
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Reasons To Hire A Professional to Clean Your Dryer Exhaust Vent
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Saves time and money.
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Eliminates fire hazards with drying clothes.
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Increases dryer efficiency.
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Cleaning them yourself is dangerous.
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Extends the life of your dryer.
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Helps the environment.
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Keeps your home cleaner and safer.
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Cuts down on harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
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Leaves a dangerous job to the professionals.
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Do It For Safety!
Dryer lint builds up over time in your dryer exhaust vent and blocks your air intake from your dryer. This creates a potential fire hazard, makes your dryer work much harder than it is supposed to, and increases the likelihood of fires. Don't take this risk with your family. Have the professionals at Apex Duct And Chimney Cleaning clean your dryer exhaust vent and get it running efficiently again. The experts at Apex Duct And Chimney Cleaning know how to clean your dryer exhaust vent and get it running at peak efficiency, which is good for the environment. And they can also lengthen the life span of your dryer and clothes. This will also save time on doing laundry, which is going to save you money as well.
If you want to save energy, time, and money, hire the professionals at Apex Duct And Chimney Cleaning to get your dryer exhaust vent cleaned. We WILL take the time to do it right, and help you stay safe. You will notice a big difference in your utility bill, and the cost it takes you to pay the professionals to clean it will pay for itself quickly each month when you notice the savings in your energy bill.
Home Fire Safety Information
The most important thing to consider about home fire safety is to have a plan. Practice as a whole household proper procedures in case there is a fire. Pick a spot a safe distance from your home as a meet-up spot to gather in case of a fire. Fire extinguishers, ladders, and proper procedures for exiting a burning house or building will help keep you and your loved ones safe.
When a smoke or carbon monoxide detector goes off, it is for a real warning. Take all precautions seriously from the moment you become aware of an alarm or other problem such as seeing or smelling smoke. If an alarm goes off, GET OUT! It is important to notify the proper authorities, but do so after you have ensured your safety and to those around you.
Most fires start small and can be contained if acted upon quickly. Use fire extinguishers on small fires if available and accessible. Not only is a fire extinguisher a good protection, be familiar with its operation. Never operate a fire extinguisher if you do not know how to use it.
When evacuating a house that is on fire, always feel the wooden part of the door prior to opening it. If the door is warm or hot never open it. The door handle maybe hot enough to burn you very badly. Opening the door can bring more oxygen to the fire feeding it and possibly bringing you into more danger. Find another way out of the room. If you cannot escape, signal for help. Window ladders can be useful for second story rooms. Never use a non-approved ladder.
Heat and smoke will rise, so being close to the floor will help keep you safer. Keeping low to the ground will help reduce the amount of smoke inhalation. Crawl and keep your hand on the wall to keep from being disoriented.
Once you reach safety, dial 911 if someone has not already, and never re-enter a burning building. Meet up with other members of the home at a site that was previously chosen for this type of situation. Ensure everyone has been accounted for. Stay clear from danger and await for authorities to arrive.
Don't let something like this happen to you.
Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
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