Dryer Vent Cleaning: The Fire Risk Nobody Thinks About

When people think about home fire risks, they usually picture kitchens, fireplaces, or candles. Very few think about the dryer — yet dryer-related fires are far more common than most homeowners realize.

The issue isn’t the appliance itself. It’s what builds up inside the vent.

Lint Buildup = A Real Fire Hazard

Every time you run your dryer, tiny fibers escape the lint trap. Over time, that lint accumulates inside the dryer vent and exhaust duct.

Lint is:

• Highly flammable

• Excellent at trapping heat

• Perfect fuel when airflow is restricted

As lint builds up, the dryer runs hotter and longer — increasing the risk of overheating and fire.

How Often Should Dryer Vents Be Cleaned?

For most homes, dryer vents should be professionally cleaned once a year.

You may need more frequent cleaning if:

• You do laundry often

• Your vent run is long or has multiple turns

• Your dryer is located far from an exterior wall

• You have pets (pet hair accelerates buildup)

Cleaning the lint trap after every load is important — but it does not replace vent cleaning.

Signs Your Dryer Vent Airflow Is Restricted

Many homeowners miss the warning signs because they develop gradually. Watch for:

• Clothes taking longer than usual to dry

• The dryer or laundry room feeling unusually hot

• A burning smell during or after a cycle

• Excess lint around the dryer or outside vent opening

• The exterior vent flap not opening properly

These are signs the dryer is struggling to move air — and that’s when risk increases.

Why This Matters Beyond Fire Safety

Restricted airflow doesn’t just increase fire risk. It also:

• Shortens the life of your dryer

• Raises energy costs

• Causes unnecessary wear on clothing

A simple annual cleaning can prevent expensive repairs, reduce risk, and improve efficiency.

The Bottom Line

Dryer vent cleaning is one of the most overlooked — and easiest — home safety tasks. It’s not complicated, but it is important.