Clothes dryers consume more energy than any other household appliance, so improving efficiency is a top priority for many homeowners. Whether it’s an easy switch to a shorter accordion-like hose or a more severe problem with the dryer duct, there are plenty of tips for better performance. They cleaned the lint trap after every load to promote airflow and reduce fire hazards (lint-related residential fires occur far more frequently than one might think). Additionally, professional dryer vent cleaning is an essential step to ensure proper ventilation.
Reduced Energy Bills
Many homeowners struggle with high energy bills each month. Some families have even cut back on basic expenses to afford the cost of their electricity. This is a problem that professional duct repair Petaluma CA, can help with. Ducts that have holes, clogs, or leaks lose around 20% of their efficiency, which adds up to significant money spent on your utilities. There are some simple things you can do to reduce your electricity usage, including cleaning the lint screen after each load and using dryer balls to reduce drying time. You can also lower your thermostat a few degrees in the winter to save energy. The cost of repairing or replacing ductwork depends on the difficulty involved, with more difficult-to-reach areas such as crawl spaces and attics costing more than easy-to-access spaces like walls. It’s best to have your ductwork inspected by a pro and repaired or replaced immediately if you want the most cost-effective option.
Reduced Risk of Fire
Lint is flammable, and lint buildup inside dryer vents poses a significant fire hazard. It also blocks air from exiting the vent, causing your dryer to overheat and become hot. The good news is that duct cleaning services remove lint, significantly reducing the risk of a dryer fire. This is why experts recommend scheduling regular service. In addition to helping your dryer run more efficiently, it helps prevent clogged vents that result in higher energy bills. It’s recommended that you have your ducts cleaned at least once per year, but depending on how much laundry you do or whether anyone in your home has allergies or asthma, you may need to have them cleaned more often. Experts recommend using metal ducts instead of plastic or foil accordion-style ducts, which can sag, trapping lint in the ridges and low spots. Make sure the ducts are long enough to reach outdoors and ensure that all fittings are tight and secure.
Reduced Wear and Tear
When ducts get torn or damaged, air can’t pass through as quickly, and the HVAC system has to work harder. The more work your system has to do, the higher your energy bills will be. Regular inspections and promptly repairing torn ducts can prevent this and help your system last longer. A professional can use mastic sealant or foil tape to fix small tears or cracks in ductwork. However, if your ducts are seriously damaged or have been chewed by rodents, they may need to be replaced.
Increased Product Life
Over time, ducts can loosen or get pulled out of place. When this happens, air can escape and make the system work harder to achieve the same results. This can lead to early wear and tear in the system, as well as increased energy bills. Professional duct repair fixes these problems and helps prevent further damage. Duct sealing involves testing the ducts for leaks and closing them with sealant or tape. Keeping your dryer ducts clean and sealed can significantly extend their life and reduce maintenance costs. It can also reduce the need for at-home DIY maintenance. If you do opt to perform maintenance at home, a pro can save you time and hassle by fixing problems promptly. They can also help you avoid expensive repairs you might otherwise have to pay for later.
