As the crisp fall air rolls in and we start spending more time indoors, many homeowners focus on cozy décor, fall baking, and comfort. But there’s one less glamorous task that could literally save your home... cleaning your dryer vent.
Most people don’t realize it, but clogged dryer vents are one of the leading causes of house fires in North America. It’s easy to forget about this small maintenance task because we can’t see the buildup happening inside the vent. Over time, lint accumulates, airflow decreases, and the dryer starts working harder and hotter, a dangerous combination that can ignite a fire in seconds.
If your dryer sits in the middle of your home (like in many newer builds), the vent often runs a longer distance through walls or ceilings before reaching the outside. That extended run makes it even more important to keep the vent clean. The longer the duct, the higher the risk of lint buildup and the more hidden it is from sight.
A few signs that your vent might need attention:
✅ Clothes are taking longer to dry.
✅ The dryer feels hot to the touch after a cycle.
✅ You notice a burning smell or excess humidity in the laundry area.
✅ It’s been more than a year since you last cleaned it.
Fall is the perfect time to take care of this simple but crucial maintenance task. Not only does it prevent fire risk — it can also save energy, extend your dryer’s lifespan, and help your clothes dry faster.
If you’re comfortable doing it yourself, disconnect the dryer hose and gently vacuum out lint from both ends. But if the vent extends through walls or multiple turns, it’s best to hire a professional duct cleaning company. They have special tools that can reach the full length safely.
As a REALTOR®, I often see the effects of deferred maintenance when showing homes or inspecting properties. Something as small as a blocked vent can lead to major damage and that’s one surprise no homeowner wants. Keeping up with these seasonal home tasks helps protect your investment, your property value, and most importantly, your family.
👉 This fall, take five minutes to check your dryer vent. Add it to your home maintenance checklist and stay ahead of problems before they start.
If you’d like my complete Fall Home Maintenance Checklist, send me a quick message — I’d be happy to share it with you!
Let’s keep our homes safe, cozy, and ready for the cooler months ahead. 🍂
Laurie Zizian
RE/MAX Niagara Realty Ltd.
Helping Niagara homeowners protect and grow their biggest investment — one home at a time.
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