Clogged Dryer Vent Post Cleaning? Here’s What To Do
Using low-quality tools to clean a dryer vent might seem like a cost-effective option, but it does not guarantee the best results. Issues such as a musty smell, taking longer than ever to dry clothes and higher temperatures might persist even after you have done your best to eliminate accumulated debris.
Each of these is a telltale sign that you have a partially clogged duct on your hands - one that requires a deep clean to function optimally. The best way to do that is to use high-quality dryer vent cleaning tools such as vent snakes, valves and more. These can make all the difference, ensuring a thorough, clog-free clean-up! Let’s explore.
Why Is The Dryer Vent Still Clogged?
Quite a few factors can be held accountable in this regard despite your best cleaning efforts. Here are the common causes for persistent vent blockage:
1. Using the wrong tools
As we mentioned before, using the wrong tools, such as basic brush-style snakes for example, is the number one cause for a vent that feels unclean. These might be good for dislodging surface-level lint. However, they are likely to miss tough dryer vent spots and bends. Not to mention, they might push lint deeper into the vent.
2. Cleaning only the exterior
Cleaning the visible parts of the vent such as the outlet or the lint trap is a job half done. There are high chances of lint still being trapped in spaces such as the length of the duct and in crawlspaces, thus hindering any airflow improvement.
3. Using improper techniques
If you don’t push the brush far enough or rotate it in the wrong direction, lint is likely to remain stuck. It may even clog the duct further, thus requiring a deep clean.
4. Other obstructions
Lint is not the only substance that can block a vent. Other obstructions include bird nests, construction material and rodent debris. These demand a forceful removal with the help of highly effective tools.
How To Unclog It With Dryer Vent Snakes?
Now let’s touch upon how to fix vents that are still clogged after clean-up. The solution is simple - use the right dryer vent cleaning equipment. While using manual brushes and vacuum attachments are part of the standard procedure, they are not enough on their own. You may miss removing a large portion of the debris by just using them.
What you need are air-powered dryer vent snakes. Preferably with skipper balls and valves. Channeling compressed air through a specialized nozzle, dryer vent snakes deliver powerful cleaning action inside the duct, ensuring all debris is removed from every single corner.
Here is what makes dryer vent snakes a highly effective cleaning tool:
- Deeper reach: Be it complex ductwork or an exceptionally lengthy one, dryer vent snakes can handle them with ease.
- 360° airflow: They clean every corner and crevice of the vent, including tough spots.
- Safe for use: Whether the vent system is old or flexible, these tools do not scrape the walls, leading to zero damage.
- Eliminates tough debris: Whether it’s stuck lint or light nesting, dryer vent snakes can remove them all without leaving a trace behind.
When Should You Use Dryer Vent Snakes?
This dryer vent cleaning tool is perfect for use in specific situations. You should use if you’ve cleaned the dryer vent but the following issues persist:
- Extended drying times
- Excessive heat emanating from dryer, vent or both
- A musty or burning smell
- Reduced airflow from the vent exhaust
These are indicators that it’s time to switch your approach and resort to more efficient dryer vent cleaning equipment that guarantees safety and performance.
Conclusion
As a technician, it’s important to use the right tools so you can do your job and restore the dryer vent to its former glory. Of course, using the right dryer vent equipment for that is a must, including snakes and skipper balls among others. You will find these tools at Heat Seal Equipment Ltd. Providers of high-quality equipment since 1975, we have everything you need to ensure a meticulous clean-up job. Contact us today to explore our fine range of dryer vent cleaning tools.
