The frequency at which your dryer vent needs to be cleaned can vary based on a number of circumstances.  These can include the distance between your dryer and the outside vent, the number of turns the pipe makes on its way outside, and whether your pipe leads outside through your roof or through the side of your home.  Many vents should be cleaned once per year to ensure proper ventilation and safety.

Cleaning a dryer vent can be a fairly quick process, but it does require special equipment in order to be done properly.  We have equipment specifically designed for cleaning dryer vents to ensure that the entire length of the pipe is cleaned without causing any damage.

Take this simple test to see how often you should have your dryer vent professionally cleaned.  Give yourself points based on the most appropriate answer:

1.  How much use does your dryer get?
Light – 1pt.    Medium – 2pts.    Heavy – 3pts.

2.  How long is the duct between your dryer and the outside wall?
1-5 feet – 1pt.        5-15 feet – 2pts.    15 feet or longer – 3pts.

3.  How many turns/corners are there in the ducting?
0 or 1 – 1pt.        2 turns – 2pts.        3 or more turns – 3pts.

4.  What type of dryer do you have?
Full Size Unit – 1pt.        Stack Unit – 2pts.

5.  Where does the vent exit the home?
Outside Wall – 1pt.        Out the Roof – 2pts.

6.  What material is the venting pipe?
Solid Metal Pipe – 1pt.     Flexible Aluminum/Vinyl – 2pts.

Add up your points.
What did your dryer vent score and how often should you clean it?

6-7 points – Your vent is fairly safe but should still be cleaned every 2-3 years.
8-10 points – We would recommend cleaning your dryer vent every 18-24 months.
11-15 points – For maximum safety your vent should be cleaned yearly.

 

This dryer vent test is republished here courtesy of www.mountainductcleaning.com