03/28/2023
Here is a "Feel Good" story of the day.
A lengthy post, but worth the read. A while back we posted that Enersol has partnered with several HWAP agencies to perform "weatherization" services on homes for income qualifying families. We install insulation, fix ductwork, install new dryer vents and ductwork, etc etc.
A couple of weeks ago we had a piece of equipment break down. I called for a Service Tech to come fix it. Once he was done working on the equipment, he asked what we did? I explained to him in considerable depth what we do (but I will spare you the lengthy explanation).
Anyhow, one of the things I mentioned that we do is change or repair dryer vents. I told him the flexible foil/tin foil types of dryer duct is a fire hazard. I told him that the ribs collect moist lint and eventually clog. I, also, told him that homeowners make big mistakes by having multiple turns and ups ands downs in their dryer duct. I explained that we install hard pipe, either 26 or 30gauge. I described how the heat and lint flow better through the smooth pipe with proper/safer turns and elbows.
Additionally, I told him a story of my family dryer from a few years ago. Our dryer was slowing down its heating. It was taking 2 cycles. Once I heard this, I tore our dryer apart. I was mortified when I got inside the dryer. It was full of wet wadded/matted lint. I took 3 Walmart bags of wadded up lint that had snuck past the lint trap out of the dryer. Once I removed the lint and put dryer back together, it worked much better!!
The Service Tech went home and started investigating his dryer vent. Not only was the duct getting clogged, but his dryer was full of lint, too. He said he was surprised his dryer didn't start on fire.
So, please take a look at your dryer vent/duct to make sure it is not clogged. Additionally, consider having your dryer checked and cleaned.