In this blog entry, the professional Chicago dryer vent cleaning service team here at EmDuct will detail the main causes of foul odors in and around dryer vents.
What are the common causes of bad smells in or around dryer vents?
- Clogged Dryer Vents or Ducts– Over time, dust, lint, or other debris rapidly builds up inside dryer vents, potentially blocking airflow. This can trap moisture inside it, which creates a damp environment where mold or mildew ca nthrive and cause a musty and unpleasant smell. Lint buildup also rapidly reduces dryer efficiency, causing it to take longer to dry clothes.
- Mold and Moisture– Moisture inside dryer vents cause mold and mildew to grow. Moisture occurs when dryer vents are not properly vented outside,or when there are ductwork leaks. Mold causes a bad smell and can cause health issues when left untreated. Make sure that your dryer vent has a secure connection to the outside of your home, and that there are no leaks present.
- Clogged Lint Filters – Lint filters that get clogged when it isn’t cleaned after every load of laundry can cause lint to bypass the dryer filter and get stuck in the vent, which causes nasty smells. Dirty lint filters cause the dryer to work much harder. Make sure to clean lint filters after every use in order to prevent bad smells and help your dryer run more efficiently.
- Burning Smells– This is likely due to dryers not getting enough air, vents being clogged, heating elements malfunctioning, or dryers being too old. This is very dangerous and can cause lint or other debris inside the dryer to catch fire. If you notice a burning smell ,turn the dryer off right away and check the vent for clogs, or enlist one of our professional dryer repair services to eliminate this fire hazard.
- Food or Pests – It’s possible animals, food, or pests have gotten into the dryer vent and expired, like birds or rodents. It’s also possible that food on your laundry got into the dryer vent and is rotting. Have your dryer professionally inspected and cleaned to remove these issues.