Average Cost of Dryer Vent Cleaning
By ProMatcher Staff
Dryer Vent Cleaning 101
Why is dryer vent cleaning so important?
Unfortunately, emptying your dryer’s lint trap after every load is not enough. Lint and debris can also build up in the dryer’s exhaust piping. A clogged dryer vent restricts airflow. This leads to longer drying times and higher energy bills. Why spend more money than you have to?
It’s also a serious fire hazard. Each year, thousands of house fires start in the laundry room. Nearly one-third of these fires are due to improper maintenance. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), “failure to clean” is the leading cause of clothes dryer fires.
More from the NFPA: Dryer Fire Statistics
How Much Should You Pay?
Our research team found that the average cost of dryer vent cleaning is about $131.55. However, the total cost may be as low as $110 (or as high as $155), depending on your geographic location.
Local labor rates may have a significant impact on the cost of your project. For more city-specific cost information, check out ProMatcher's Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost Report. Here, you will be able to enter your zip code and find estimated prices in your local area.
Each year, approximately 2,570 Americans die in house fires. These fires also cause thousands and thousands of dollars in damage. Hiring a professional to clean to your dryer vent periodically is a relatively small price to pay. A technician will use commercial-grade brushes, tools, and equipment to remove all of the dangerous debris buildup from the dryer vent hose.
What Items Impact the Cost?
There are a number of factors that may impact the cost of dryer vent cleaning, in addition to your geographic location.
1. Vent length
If your dryer is located near an exterior wall, the vent should not take long to clean. Longer vent pipes, especially ones with many twists and turns, are more likely to clog. As a result, it may take longer to complete the cleaning.
2. Accessibility of the vent
Where is your dryer vent located? Will the contractor need to use a ladder to reach the vent? Roof dryer vent cleaning can be particularly challenging. If your dryer vent is somewhat difficult to access, you may be charged a slightly higher fee.
3. Bird nest or pest removal
It’s not uncommon to find a bird’s nest or another critter living inside a home's dryer venting system. Unfortunately, the nesting materials can increase the risk of fire. If you suspect that there is a nest in the vent, let your contractor know. In some cases, removing the nest will may impact the cost of your project. He or she may also recommend the installation of a new cover to prevent any critters from getting in again.
4. Need to replace plastic venting?
Many local building codes now prohibit the use of plastic dryer vents. If you live in an older home, your contractor may recommend replacing plastic venting materials with metal. Unfortunately, this may increase the cost of your project significantly. Rigid metal ducts are considered a much safer alternative.
5. Duct repairs
If your dryer venting system was not been properly installed or if it has been poorly maintained, some repairs may be necessary. The cost of any replacement parts, in addition to the extra labor, will be included in the final bill.
6. Is there a mold problem?
Over time, water can become trapped in your dryer vent. This excess moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. The presence of mold may have a large impact on the cost of this type of job, depending on the extent of the damage. Mold remediation services can be expensive!
How Often to Clean Dryer Vent?
Many professionals recommend having your dryer exhaust vent inspected once a year. However, the dryer vent can be cleaned on an as-needed basis. If your dryer gets a lot of use, your contractor may recommend more frequent cleanings. A typical cleaning should only take about one hour.
Read More: How often should my dryer vent be cleaned?
What about DIY Dryer Vent Cleaning?
Many home improvement stores, like Home Depot and Lowes, sell dryer vent cleaning kits. These kits contain most of the brushes and tools that you will need to do this project yourself. However, a kit cannot fully replace the services of a dryer vent cleaning professional. He or she will be able to inspect your system, diagnose problems, and resolve any potential venting issues.
If your dryer is vented through the roof, there are additional challenges that you may not be equipped to handle. Did you know that 164,000 Americans end up in the emergency room every year after falling off a ladder?
There's no shame in asking for help.
More from ProMatcher:
[+] Cost of Air Duct Cleaning
[+] Appliance Repair Cost Report
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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