5 Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning

A clogged dryer vent is more than an inconvenience. It can waste energy, damage your appliance, and even put your home at risk for a fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, thousands of house fires are caused each year by lint buildup in dryer vents.

If you are wondering whether it’s time to schedule a dryer vent cleaning, here are the top five warning signs you should never ignore.

1. Clothes Take Too Long to Dry

If your dryer needs more than one cycle to fully dry a load of laundry, it’s likely a sign of restricted airflow. A clogged vent traps moisture, forcing your dryer to work harder and longer. This not only drives up your energy bill but can also shorten the life of the appliance.

2. A Burning Smell While the Dryer Is Running

A hot or smoky smell coming from the dryer is a serious red flag. Dryer lint is highly flammable, and when it builds up in the vent, the heat from the appliance can cause it to smolder. If you notice any unusual odors, stop using the dryer immediately and contact a professional.

3. Outside Vent Hood Flap Is Not Opening Properly

Your dryer’s exterior vent hood should open easily when the dryer is running. If the flap stays closed or barely moves, there is likely a blockage in the vent that is preventing airflow. This is a clear indication that it is time for a cleaning.

4. Laundry Room Feels Hot or Humid

A properly functioning dryer should exhaust heat and moisture outside the home. If your laundry area feels especially warm or damp during a cycle, it likely means the vent is clogged and unable to expel air efficiently.

5. It Has Been More Than a Year Since Your Last Cleaning

Even without noticeable symptoms, dryer vents should be cleaned at least once a year. Homes with larger families, pets, or frequent laundry use may need more frequent service to maintain safety and performance.

Bonus Sign: Lint Buildup Around the Dryer or Lint Trap

Lint around the base of your dryer, in the lint trap housing, or on clothes after drying suggests lint is not being properly evacuated through the vent. This buildup could signal a blockage deeper in the system.

Why Ignoring These Signs Can Be Dangerous

Clogged dryer vents increase the risk of fire, raise utility costs, and put extra strain on your appliance. In many older homes across the Bay Area, dryer vent systems may be longer, outdated, or improperly installed—making regular cleaning even more critical.

Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning for Bay Area Homes

The Vent Cleaner is a local, family-owned company serving the entire Bay Area with professional dryer vent services. We offer same-day appointments and 24/7 service to help keep your home or business safe and efficient.

We serve residential and commercial properties in San Jose, Oakland, Walnut Creek, Sunnyvale, and surrounding cities.

Our services include:

Dryer vent cleaning
Dryer vent repair and rerouting
New vent installation
Bird guard installation
Air duct and bathroom exhaust vent cleaning

To schedule an appointment, call (408) 362-9917 or contact us online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my dryer vent cleaned?

Most homeowners should schedule a cleaning once a year. However, if you do laundry frequently or have pets, you may need to schedule service every six to nine months.

Can I clean my dryer vent myself?

You can clean the lint trap regularly, but full vent cleaning requires professional tools and expertise to safely remove buildup from the entire system.

What happens during a dryer vent cleaning?

Our technicians use high-powered vacuums and rotary brushes to remove lint, debris, and blockages from the entire vent line, including hard-to-reach areas.

Is dryer vent cleaning worth the cost?

Yes. A clean vent system reduces fire risk, lowers energy bills, and extends the life of your dryer.

What areas do you serve?

We serve the entire Bay Area, including San Jose, Fremont, Berkeley, Concord, Palo Alto, and surrounding communities.

Schedule Your Dryer Vent Cleaning Today

If you are experiencing any of these signs, do not wait. Regular dryer vent maintenance protects your home and saves money in the long run. The Vent Cleaner provides fast, affordable, and thorough service across the Bay Area.

Top 5 Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning – Don’t Ignore These Warning Signals