Question 1

How often should I clean my dryer vent?

Accepted Answer

Most homes should have dryer vents professionally cleaned once a year. Larger households, long vent runs (common in newer Tri-Valley and Peninsula homes), and multi-unit shared setups in Oakland, Emeryville, and Berkeley may need cleaning every 8–10 months. If your dryer takes longer to dry a load than it used to, that's the most reliable sign it's time.

Question 2

What are the warning signs of a clogged dryer vent?

Accepted Answer

Clothes taking multiple cycles to dry, the top of the dryer getting unusually hot, a burning smell during a cycle, lint around the outside vent hood, or visible lint accumulation in the laundry room. Any of these mean the vent should be inspected — clogged dryer vents are a leading cause of house fires according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Question 3

How long does a dryer vent cleaning take?

Accepted Answer

A standard cleaning takes 45–90 minutes depending on vent length, number of bends, and how much buildup is present. Homes with long retrofitted runs — common in pre-war Berkeley and Oakland homes and in newer Dublin Ranch-style communities — sit closer to the upper end of that range.

Question 4

Do you clean both the vent and the dryer's internal lint trap?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A complete service covers the internal lint trap housing, the transition hose, the full duct run from the back of the dryer to the exterior vent hood, and the hood itself. Cleaning only one section leaves the rest clogged — which defeats the purpose.

Question 5

Will cleaning the dryer vent make my dryer more efficient?

Accepted Answer

Yes, measurably. A clogged vent forces the dryer to work harder, which means longer cycles, higher energy bills, and accelerated wear on the heating element. Most customers notice shorter dry times immediately after service, and many see lower energy bills over the following months.

Question 6

Can you clean vents in homes with long or complex duct runs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're equipped for the long runs typical in newer Dublin Ranch, Wallis Ranch, and Dougherty Valley homes, as well as the retrofitted runs common in pre-war Berkeley and Oakland homes. We inspect the full routing, document the condition, and flag any safety issues honestly.

DRYER VENT CLEANING

How often should I clean my dryer vent?

What are the warning signs of a clogged dryer vent?

How long does a dryer vent cleaning take?

EAST BAY(47)

Do you clean both the vent and the dryer's internal lint trap?

Will cleaning the dryer vent make my dryer more efficient?

Can you clean vents in homes with long or complex duct runs?

PENINSULA(27)

SERVICES

LOCATIONS

EXPLORE