5 Warning Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning in Portland
Living in Portland, where rain and moisture are common, it’s easy to overlook how excess humidity and lint buildup can affect your dryer. A clogged dryer vent not only reduces your appliance’s efficiency but can also become a serious fire hazard. Here are five clear warning signs that your dryer vent needs immediate cleaning.
1. Clothes Take Too Long to Dry
If your clothes are still damp after a full cycle, it’s not just a fluke. A clogged vent restricts airflow, forcing your dryer to work harder and longer. This is one of the earliest signs your vent needs attention.
2. The Dryer Feels Overheated
When a vent is blocked, the hot air has nowhere to go. If your dryer or laundry room feels unusually hot, it’s a red flag that the vent is not properly exhausting warm air.
3. You Smell Something Burning
Lint is highly flammable. If you catch even a faint burning odor while your dryer is running, turn it off and get your vents checked right away. It could save your home from a potential fire.
4. Lint is Visible Around the Dryer Vent or Door
Excessive lint around the dryer opening or vent cap outside your house signals a blockage. This buildup could be dangerous if ignored for too long.
5. Higher Electricity Bills
When dryers run longer due to poor airflow, they consume more power. If your bills are creeping up for no clear reason, your dryer vent could be the hidden culprit.
