Dryer

Vents

Most people don't know that their vents need to be cleaned. Just cleaning out the lint filter is not enough because lint collects in the dryer duct and it clogs the hot air. The lint is extremely flammable and the buildup of heat causes the lint to catch on fire.

If the vent is improperly installed, it can also cause a serious fire hazard. When you have your dryer vent inspected, a professional will tell you if something could be hazardous.

5 people die and 100 people are injured from dryer vent fires every year. The average cost is $9,600 in damage per fire.

Lint build up uses more time, energy, and money to dry your clothes.

Your dryer might not need replaced if it is not drying your clothes like it used to. When lint builds up in the vent, it restricts airflow and your clothes don't dry as fast as they once did. You will need to run your dryer more frequently to dry your clothes and it will cost you more money in the long run.

Accessories You Can Buy to Help Protect Your Vents and Dryer

You can save energy by getting a dryer vent closure. It keeps cold air out in the winter as well as hot air in the summer. It can be painted to match the color of your house.

You can keep unwanted animals out of your dryer vents with a hinged bird guard. The hinge lets you access the vent without taking the guard off. You could also get a heavy duty bird guard for bigger vents.

You can also get a monitor that is installed at the dryer exhaust, and it measures the pressure in the dryer vent caused by lint buildup.

Moisture

Moisture and water damage are the #1 reason for deterioration of chimneys and other masonry structures.

Chimneys are highly exposed to the elements and they need to be protected so they do not deteriorate. You should have your chimney completely protected by:

having your chimney inspected
investing in a chimney cap
having any cracks in the crown repaired
having the joints and flashing mortared
applying water repellent to the entire chimney

Top Mounted Damper

If you are having draft problems it could be because your damper leaks. This damper has a rubber gasket instead of metal, and it keeps air condition and heat from escaping your house. Metal gaskets were designed when energy was cheaper, and if it leaked it was not a big deal. Nowadays electricity is more expensive and a leak could cost you big time.

This Damper eliminates downdrafts, seals out rain, and can prevent pests like squirrels, raccoons and birds. It is mounted to the top of your chimney and it has a cable that drops down the flue. It attaches to a handle that mounts where you can reach it.

Reasons to get a top mounted damper:

replaces your old leaky damper
keeps out moisture and extends chimney life
keeps in warmth and air conditioning
keeps animals out of your chimney
made of cast aluminum and stainless steel
easy to operate
helps prevent odors