The solution is easier and less expensive than you think. You do not have to replace your clothes dryer; this problem is rarely a sign of an old, worn out dryer. It is most likely caused by lint build-up clogging your dryer vent system. Your dryer vent system removes heat, moisture and lint from your dryer; a clogged system will cause the dryer to overwork, costing you more money for utilities. It also results in extra wear and tear on your appliance, leading to expensive repair bills. Most importantly, it also causes overheating and eventually, a clothes dryer fire.

Some newer models of clothes dryers have safety features which turn off the heat if sensors indicate overheating caused by lint clogging the system. This is why it takes longer to dry your clothes. Other causes of dryer vent clogs are forgetting to check the pockets of your clothes before they go into the laundry. Pieces of paper, kleenex and anything left in your pockets can become trapped in the system, blocking air-flow and causing lint to build up. Hair is also a problem; human and pet hair will contribute to clogged dryer vents.

Professional dryer vent cleaning is recommended at least once a year to keep your dryer operating efficiently and safely. You should call a C-Det Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician to do the job.

Horatio Chiorean owns and operates Dryer Vent Wizard, a dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation specialist who will provide a complete inspection of your dryer vent system to be sure it is up to code and operating properly. Horatio also takes the time to educate his customers on how to maintain their dryer vent system and the warning signs to look for. Read Horatio's dryer vent cleaning blog to learn more.