Four Warning Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs a Professional Cleaning

Whether at home or in a business, the signs of a clogged or malfunctioning dryer vent can be easy to spot—if you know what to look for. Here are four red flags that it’s time to book professional dryer vent cleaning.

1. Longer Drying Times

If you notice that loads take significantly longer than they used to, or the dryer runs hotter than normal, airflow may be restricted. Lint build‑up and duct blockages force the machine to work harder. 

2. Burning Smell or Excessive Heat Around the Machine

A subtle burning odor, overly warm laundry room, or warm exterior vent flap after a cycle can all indicate lint is trapped and overheating is occurring. The NFPA identifies “dust, fiber & lint” as leading items first ignited in dryer fires. 

3. Visible Lint Around the Dryer or Exterior Vent

Lint escaping around the lint trap, behind the dryer, or piling up outside the vent means the system is not exhausting properly. That’s a cue to hire a specialist in dryer vent cleaning and maintenance. 

4. External Vent Flap Doesn’t Open or Is Blocked

The outdoor termination point must allow unobstructed exhaust—walls, plants, awnings, locked shutters, or even snow/ice can block airflow and lead to elevated risk. A professional service will inspect this as part of the job.

What to do next

Call a certified dryer vent specialist who uses proper cleaning tools (brushes, vacuums, camera inspection if needed). Ask for an assessment of duct condition, number of turns, total length, and whether the system meets code for safe venting.