Clean Sweeps of Michigan's Blog

Reasons To Get Your Dryer Vents Cleaned

Most homeowners understand the basics of dryer care, such as cleaning out the lint trap after use. While this is an important part of preventing dryer fires, there is one space it can be difficult to reach lint buildup – in the dryer vents.

Why do dryer vents need to be cleaned?

The same lint that accumulates in the lint trap can begin building up in the dryer vents over time. If not removed, this lint can begin to clog dryer vents, impact dryer performance, and significantly increase the risk of a dryer fire.

Lint and other debris in the dryer vents can cause narrowing that constricts air flow; as little as half an inch of accumulation in a four-inch dryer vent can reduce airflow by up to 50%. To compensate for the reduced airflow, the dryer produces hotter and hotter air. This superheated air can ignite the highly flammable lint, causing a dryer fire that can quickly spread beyond the laundry room and to the rest of your home.

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 15,000 house fires are caused by clogged dryer vents in the United States each year. These fires endanger lives and cause millions of dollars in damage to homes and property – and can often be prevented.

Reasons to have your dryer vents cleaned

Below are four of the many reasons to have your dryer vents cleaned.

1. Reduce the risk of fire
Professional dryer vent cleaning removes lint and debris from the entire vent system – not just from the lint trap. This significantly reduces the risk of an accidental dryer fire.

2. Preventative dryer maintenance
When dryer vents are clogged, additional wear and tear are placed on the appliance. As the dryer works harder to compensate for clogged vents, there is a higher chance of a breakdown occurring. The cost of repairs – or an entirely new dryer – is often more than the cost of a dryer vent cleaning.

3. Improved performance
Clogs can prevent humid air from escaping; this means that clothes often need more than one cycle to dry completely. Clean vents can help improve dryer performance by shortening dryer times and helping clothes dry faster. Likewise, having dryer vents cleaned can help prevent the damp, musty smells that can permeate the dryer – and clothes – when vents are clogged.

4. Lower energy bills
A dryer with clogged vents has to work harder in order to dry clothes; this uses more energy and can lead to increased energy bills. Electricity bills can also go up when running additional cycles is needed in order to get clothes totally dry. Having dryer vents cleaned can help the dryer operate more efficiently and lower energy bills.

Schedule your dryer vent cleaning today!

If your dryer is running sluggishly, don’t head to the store to pick out a new dryer. Instead, consider having your dryer vents cleaned to improve dryer efficiency – and significantly reduce your risk of a dryer fire. For more information about dryer vent cleaning or to schedule your next appointment, contact Clean Sweeps of Michigan today!

Fireplaces, Stoves, and Inserts

Most of us visualize a fireplace as a wood-burning open hearth, there are a variety of choices when it comes to heating appliances. With fireplaces available in various sizes, styles, and fuel sources, there is a perfect heating appliance for every home. Three of the most common heating appliances are fireplace, stoves, and inserts. With pros and cons to each, the following guide can help you distinguish which type of heating appliance best fits your need and home.

Fireplaces

Fireplaces continue to be one of the most popular home features. A study by the National Association of Realtors found that 40% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with a fireplace. They are broadly divided into two categories: manufactured or factory-built fireplaces and open hearth masonry fireplaces.

Manufactured fireplaces are less expensive, but they have a shorter lifespan. Most manufactured fireplaces last for about 30 years before they need a replacement. Traditional masonry fireplaces are custom-built by a trained mason in your home. They are more expensive than manufactured fireplaces. However, they have a significantly longer lifespan – and add more value to your home. Fireplaces also come with a variety of fuel sources. Whether you prefer wood, gas or pellets, there is a fireplace for you.

Inserts

Fireplace inserts burn with a closed-combustion system. It allows them to burn more efficiently, which allows less heated air escape up the chimney and less cold air from outside enter your home. According to Leslie Wheeler of the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association, installing a fireplace insert into an open hearth has been known to reduce energy bills by as much as 40 percent.

Like masonry fireplaces, inserts come in a variety of sizes, styles, and with different fuel sources. Inserts recommendations are common when homeowners are looking to switch fuel sources. If you are looking to switch from a wood to gas burning fireplace, then a gas-burning insert can be installed directly into your existing masonry chimney.

Stoves

Many of us associate stoves with log cabins, more homeowners are choosing these modernized heating appliances now. New stoves are easy to use, energy efficient, and come in a variety of modern and traditional styles. Because all stoves must now be EPA certified, stoves can even be used during burn bans or periods of restricted burning.

Stoves come in a variety of sizes and styles to meet your needs and match your home’s style. From sleek, contemporary stoves to traditional, cast iron stoves that can be used to heat your home. You can install a stove in almost every room. With wood, gas, and pellets as fuel source options, there is a great stove for every household.

Contact Clean Sweeps of Michigan

If you are ready to replace, upgrade, or install a new heating appliance, trust the fireplace experts at Clean Sweeps of Michigan to help you find it. Contact us today and let our friendly and knowledgeable staff help you select the perfect heating appliance for your home!