Clean Clothes Dryer Vents to Avoid Disaster in the Laundry Room

Dryer Vent Cleaning Waterford CA: Dryer vent cleaning is very important maintenance. Simple routine maintenance on your washer and dryer can save you a lot of money by extending the life of your expensive appliances and preventing premature break-down, resulting in appliance repair expenses.

Neglected maintenance can also lead to disaster and cause thousands of dollars in damages to your home. Here are some maintenance tips for the laundry room:

Clothes Dryer and Dryer Vent Maintenance

Cleaning the lint trap after each load of laundry in one example of dryer maintenance, but there is much more that is necessary for you to know. Clogged dryer vents and vent tubes restrict air flow and lead to dryer inefficiency. This can cost you an estimated $300 per year in additional energy bills as your dryer labors to dry your laundry. It is also a fire hazard; combustible lint and an overheated system are the perfect fuel for a rapidly spreading fire. Over 15,000 dryer related fires are reported each year; most of these fires are caused by failure to clean dryer vents.

Homeowners can use their vacuum attachments to clean the lint slot or reach it into the dryer vent to get some of the lint out. There are products available at most hardware stores or home improvement stores for dryer duct cleaning. Professional dryer vent cleaning is recommended at least once a year to ensure dryer safety and efficiency. A professional dryer vent cleaner will pull the dryer out, remove the back and thoroughly clean inside the dryer where lint also builds up and puts stress on the motor, belts and pulleys. While they’re at it, they will also check the belts and pulleys to be sure they are in good working order.

Washing Machines

The front loading washing machines are the most energy efficient because they use less water and they extract more water from the laundry before it goes into the dryer. Front loaders are also more gentle on your clothes.

Most homeowners are not aware of the possible disaster that can occur with neglected maintenance on a washing machine. The biggest disaster is when a water hose burst, causing the machine to release up to 650 gallons of water per hour. Imagine the water damage to a home if the washer is located on an upper floor and the hose bursts when you are away on vacation. Here are some maintenance tips to prevent problems with your washer:

Check hoses often for bulges or signs of weakness, especially at connection points. Manufacturers recommend replacing hoses every three to five years even if there are no signs of wear. Even if your hoses are steel braided and claim to be burst proof, they should be replaced periodically. You can also install an automatic water valve shut off system that is activated when sensors detect an excessive surge in water pressure.

Excessive vibration can damage the drum and put excess strain on the washer. To minimize shaking and vibrations, be sure your washing machine is level and all four feet are firmly touching the floor. Also, do not overload the machine.

Soap suds from certain detergents will build up inside the drum creating problems the drum and drive system. You should run an empty hot water wash at least once a month to break down any built up residue inside the machine.

These washer and dryer maintenance procedures, even when performed by a professional technician, typically cost less than $100. When neglected, damages can cost over $100,000! Not to mention the loss of your home or your life in the event of a dryer related fire.


James Smith is the franchise owner of Dryer Vent Wizard, a dryer vent cleaning and dryer exhaust specialist. Dryer Vent Wizard of Modesto, California provides dryer vent cleaning, dryer vent repair, dryer vent installation, dryer vent inspections and all dryer vent services for homes and businesses in Stanislaus County, Modesto, Oakdale, Riverbank, Waterford, Ceres, Turlock, Patterson, Grayson, Hughson, Newman, Salida, Keyes, San Joaquin County, Tracy, Stockton, Manteca, Lodi, Lathrup, Escalon, Ripon, and neighboring cities and communities

Owner, James Smith

James N. Smith is franchise owner/operator of Dryer Vent Wizard (DVW), Dry Clothes, Safe Homes, a home service franchise based in Modesto, Ca. James Smith purchased the rights to franchise DVW in February 20, 2008.

Dryer Vent Wizard specializes in dryer fire prevention and “urgent response” dryer and vent maintenance, repair, replacement and alterations. DVW services keep dryers functioning properly, prevent dryer fires and reduce energy costs.

Prior to becoming a Dryer Vent Wizard franchisee, Smith was employed with DHE Trucking Co. During his 11 years as a truck driver, James received several safety awards and an excellence award.

James Smith takes great pride in his work. He has gone the extra mile to further his education by becoming CSIA Certified (contractor license #943017) in dryer exhaust services.

James likes to keep in shape, weight lifting.