Dryer ductwork is often overlooked when it comes to home maintenance. Unfortunately, clogged ductwork can cause all sorts of problems, from a dryer not heating up to a dryer that overheats and creates a fire hazard. Let’s explore the common causes of clogged ductwork and what you can do to prevent them in the future!
What Are the Common Causes of a Dryer Not Heating?
A Blocked Lint Filter
Ideally, you should still clean out your lint screen every couple of loads, especially if you notice any weak drying performance. This is a fix you can do yourself! Find the lint filter and scrape off all the lint.
A Dryer Duct Kink
Sometimes a dryer will not heat if the vent is restricted by a kink in the ductwork somewhere along the run from your dryer to where it vents outdoors. Kinks happen, especially when walls and other obstructions get in the way of a straight shot to an outside wall. You might need to call in an expert to assist with taking out the kink.
A Dryer Duct Obstruction
Another potential cause is an obstruction in the venting tubing. The most common causes are bird nests and rodents that take up residence inside the duct. Other causes include debris such as leaves and lawn trimmings caught in the tubing.
How Can You Tell if Your Ductwork Is Clogged?
The easiest way to determine if your dryer ductwork is causing the problem is to take out your lint filter completely and run a test load without it – essentially, a naked load. If the dryer starts heating, then there’s a problem with your lint filter and you need to get it cleaned out. If the dryer doesn’t heat with the lint filter out, then there’s a clog somewhere else in your venting system.
If the tubing is long and in good shape, you may be able to snake a long flexible hose through it to push out any accumulated debris. If the tubing is old, has been crushed by sagging floors, or has kinks in it, you’ll probably have to remove it from both ends and have it replaced. It’s recommended to call an expert to properly clean out your ductwork.
What Are the Consequences of Clogged Ductwork?
If your dryer ductwork is clogged, the most common consequence is clothing will not dry properly – they may take longer than usual to dry or even remain damp after a long cycle. It also means you’re using more energy because the dryer has to work harder. Worst of all, it could be a safety hazard if the dryer overheats due to excess lint building up in your ductwork.
If you’re noticing that your clothes are taking too long to dry, it may be because the venting system in your home is clogged. Clogs can happen for a variety of reasons. The most important thing is to make sure you get an expert opinion on what’s causing the problem before investing money into fixing things yourself. Call Dryer Ducks today for assistance! We are locally owned and operated and our experts provide dependable and quality work!
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