Steps For DIY Dryer Vent Cleaning Oak Brook IL

By Mark Reed


Dirty ducts are gross and hazardous to the welfare of the home. In fact, a good percentage of home fires are caused by dirty ducts. Dryer vent cleaning Oak Brook IL must be done to ensure the equipment works well and efficiently. If lint is left in there, time will be wasted. More energy will be used. Then, of course, money will be lost. Maybe to replace the machine or to pay for expensive repairs down the line.

One cannot clear a duct if they cannot find it. Therefore the first step is to find it. This is not merely looking at the back of the device. It also involves finding where the hot air is expelled into the outside. There should be an opening along the wall covered with a louvered cap. It is usually low, close to the ground. Then determine whether there are curves in the system that might prove difficult to pass a brush through.

Then disconnect everything. Start with the power. It is dangerous to mess around behind the device while it is still connected to the power supply. Then meticulously disconnect the duct from the machine at the back. There should be clasps or whatever. If one has trouble disconnecting, they should find the manual. This should give a guide on how to do it right. A gas machine should be handled with care lest a gas leak develops.

Next, clear the entire system of lint. Cleaning from the inside towards the outside might lead to having the debris blown around the compound by the wind which makes it hard to clear. It might be easier to clean and pour the debris into the laundry room. This way the next step will be sweeping the floor. However, this is not set in stone. Whatever works for each individual.

Some like to have a professional handle this exercise. That way they do not have to deal with the tedious movements. They will also not worry about disconnecting and reconnecting the clasps properly. If one decides to go for a professional, they should be careful about who they hire. This is recommended at least once a year but some signs might warrant an impromptu clearing.

One might notice that while the dryer used to take a little under an hour to finish a load, it now requires more time. It might even develop a habit of shutting down automatically before the cycle is completed. These are good signs that the airflow is not good which there makes it hard for the equipment to work properly and effectively. On some occasions, there might be a light to warn of imminent damage.

Also look at the flappers on the capping on the outer end of the ducts. Look at the movement. It is pretty easy to notice if air is being expelled or if only a little bit is making it out. This means that the hot air is trapped somewhere in the system. Strong airflow makes some noise. Lack of noise could also be an indicator.

If a machine makes a lot of noise. Or if it vibrates vigorously as it works. The issue could be lint blockage. In some cases, it might be a technical issue in which case a technician should be called immediately.




About the Author: