Dryer Vent Cleaning: FAQ About Cleaning and Repairing Dryer Ducts

If you haven't had your dryer vent cleaned recently, you may want to rectify the situation as a clogged duct is a hazard to you and your family. This matter can be fixed if you hire an expert to rectify the issue. Here are some of the most common questions about this type of cleaning and repairs:

dryer duct cleaning kit

How often should my dryer vent be cleaned?
You should have a thorough cleaning done at least every two years. Factors determining this include the length of the vent, how many turns it has and how often the dryer is used. A dryer with a short vent and is used little may be able to go without cleaning longer than normal, while those who use the appliance on a regular basis might need a yearly cleaning.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Why should I get my dryer vent cleaned?
Cleaning it lifts a huge safety risk that weighs on you and your family. Dryer fires are usually the cause of a dirty or improperly installed vent. Another risk from dirty vents is carbon monoxide gas buildup.

A proper cleaning will save you on the cost of electric or gas. A spotless pipe will allow the appliance to move the proper amount of air through the system, allowing your clothes to dry at a faster rate without using extra power.

How will I know it's time for a cleaning?
Your dryer will leave a few tell tale signs. If you notice a significant change in drying times, if you can't feel air blowing from the vent outside from at least a foot or if you see lots of lint starting to collect, then you need to get it cleaned.

Is there a difference between vinyl and metal hoses?
Aluminum hoses have a much higher temperature range, and they do not deteriorate like vinyl hoses. Maybe most importantly, aluminum hoses are also fireproof.

Is a longer hose better than a short one?
A shorter run is more efficient, as it doesn't clog up as fast with lint and costs less to clean, while a longer hose run will have your dryer working harder.

How should I protect my dryer vent from intrusion?
There are covers available for purchase. One of the most common ways is to cover it with mesh, but this creates a fire hazard, so experts don't recommended you do this.

My dryer smells like smoke whenever I turn it on.
The lint is probably getting trapped behind the dryer tumbler, and this is because your hose is jammed with lint or other debris. The lint gets trapped on the tumbler and the heating element dries it out, causing it to catch fire. Have your vent cleaned immediately.

Why is my hose collecting water?
Most likely because the hose has a sag. This sag is causing condensation to collect more water over time. Water will lead to rust and sludge, so have it fixed ASAP.

Should I remove the back of the dryer to clean the vent?
You should really call a professional to have your vent cleaned. It is not recommended you remove the back of the dryer.

Can I vent my dryer to the basement?
You should never vent it to an indoor space, as the heat and moisture will result in mold growth. Always have your dryer vented outside.

Dryer Vent Cleaning: FAQ About Cleaning and Repairing Dryer Ducts

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Clothes Dryer Vent Cleaning

A clothes dryer needs a little ongoing maintenance to keep it in safe and in proper working condition.

dryer duct cleaning kit

How does a clothes dryer work?

Dryer Duct Cleaning

The way a clothes dryer works is pretty simple, it spins clothes around in hot air while an exhaust vent sends damp air outside. An exhaust tube connects to the back of your clothes dryer and then to a duct in the wall that leads somewhere outside, so all the hot, moist air coming out of the dryer ends up outside. As your heated clothes tumble in the hot air, lint comes off the fabric and most of it gets caught in the lint trap as the exhaust air passes through it. The lint trap is usually accessed either inside the dryer door or on top of the dryer and it usually looks like a plastic or wire screen. Whatever gets past the lint trap goes out the exhaust vent and duct and either clings to the sides of the tube or blows out the exhaust vent outside.

Clothes dryers blow exhaust air out through ducts, the shorter the ductwork the better. The total recommended length is less than 25 feet from the back of your dryer to the outside vent cover, that's with a straight running exhaust duct. If you have bends and turns, it should be an even shorter distance. The more turns and the further the distance, the harder your dryer must work to move exhaust air and loose lint. The harder your clothes dryer works and the longer it runs, the sooner it will wear out and have to be replaced or repaired.

If your clothes dryer has clogged vents and ducts, there are usually a few signs you'll see:
• Loads of clothing will take longer to dry.
• Clothing will be very hot and still damp when the dryer finishes.
• The clothes dryer itself will feel hotter.

A lint-clogged clothes dryer can often consume 15 - 25 dollars worth of extra electricity every month trying to dry your clothes, so it makes good sense to keep your dryer vent and it's ductwork clean.

So what kind of maintenance do you need to do for your clothes dryer?
Lint tends to build up in 3 areas:
1. Inside the lint trap.
2. Inside the flexible duct hose behind the dryer.
3. Inside the in-wall duct work, leading to the outside vent flap.

Step one is to clean the lint trap after every load of laundry. How do you clean the lint trap? You pull out the lint trap and scrape out the lint with your fingers or bang it over the trash can to clear it out, and then replace it. When you pull out the lint trap, look around inside the dryer in the pocket where it sat, if you see more loose lint there, take it out (you can use your hand, a brush, or your vacuum). By doing this simple cleaning regularly, you will avoid 90% of clothes dryer vent problems.

Step two, once a year (or more if you suspect a problem) you should unplug your dryer and pull it out from the wall, then disconnect the exhaust tube from the dryer and the wall and clean it out with a vacuum. That cleans out area #2. Area #3 is the in-wall ductwork that leads to the outside. Clean out this area using a vacuum or blower (a leaf blower with a towel wrapped around the vent opening, to create a seal works great) along with a dryer brush or auger, put everything back together and in place, and you're done.

Clothes Dryer Vent Cleaning

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Is Dryer Vent Cleaning Really Necessary?

So, you have been noticing that it is now taking longer to dry your clothes. And perhaps you have received a postcard in the mail from a company offering to clean your clothes dryer vents. Like many people, you are also perhaps wondering if dryer vent cleaning is really necessary.

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According to a June 2003 Consumer Product Safety Commission report*, in 1998 clothes dryers were associated with 15,600 fires, which resulted in 20 deaths and 370 injuries. The article goes on to explain that fires can occur when lint builds up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct. Lint can block the flow of air, cause excessive heat build-up, and result in a fire in some dryers.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Dryer vents are one of those "hidden" maintenance items that is often forgotten. The old adage; "out of sight, out of mind" really holds true when it comes to cleaning dryer ducts. Unfortunately, neglecting this area of your home can produce harmful and in some instances, even fatal results.

A restricted vent from your clothes dryer extends dryer run time, requiring more energy (your hard earned money) and can be an extreme fire hazard. Because so many homes burn each year due to dryer vent fires, it is recommended your clothes dryer venting be cleaned annually.

Some clothes dryers have vents which are readily accessible while others have long duct runs where moisture condenses and creates restriction. Still other dryer vents have sharp turns and twists or use flexible ducting which further restricts air-flow.

It is also extremely important to keep the lint screen clean after every load of clothes and that only aluminum ductwork is used to vent heat and moisture away from the dryer.

Annual clothes dryer vent cleaning, keeping your lint screen clean, and having short, straight, ductwork will help ensure the safety of your household. Using only aluminum ducting will further help prevent overheating and will add to your family's safety.

* http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/5022.html

Is Dryer Vent Cleaning Really Necessary?

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Air Duct Cleaning - How Often

As a qualified Air Duct cleaning technician it is my intention here to answer one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to air duct cleaning.

dryer duct cleaning tools

The one question that we are asked on all of our air duct cleaning jobs is...How often should my air ducts be cleaned?

Dryer Duct Cleaning

If you have ever asked an air duct cleaning company that same question, then you have probably received the standard answer of...Every 3 to 5 years.

I've even heard of some air duct cleaning companies making ridiculous claims that they will warranty their work for a minimum of 5 years, in other words they are saying that no dust will enter your air duct system for a period of 5 years. That's like saying that if I wash your windows, they won't get dirty for 5 years.

I suggest that you stay clear of any air duct cleaning company that makes such a ridiculous claim, If they are going to start off their business relationship with you on a complete lie then they are likely to be unethical, unprofessional and a rip off company.

As you can tell... These kinds of air duct cleaning companies make my blood boil!

Now, back to the topic of how often you should have your air duct cleaned.

The standard answer in this industry is as I mentioned above, every 3 to 5 years however, one must take several things in to consideration, a more frequent air duct cleaning should be performed if:

1) there are smokers in the house

2) there are shedding pets in the house

3) there has been recent remodeling work

4) there are numerous occupants in the home

5) you are not very tidy

6) the cold air return vents are located on the floors versus on the walls

7) you are moving into a new home

these are just a few of the reasons why one might consider a more frequent air duct cleaning schedule.

If you are unsure as to weather or not you are due for an air duct cleaning, I suggest that you remove one of the cold air registers in you home and have a look inside, If you don't like what you see then hire an air duct cleaning company.

Air Duct Cleaning Could be the Healthiest Home Improvement You Will Ever Make!

Air Duct Cleaning - How Often

Dryer Duct Cleaning

The Calphalon Grill Pan - Getting Outdoor Cooking Flavor Indoors

Calphalon grill pans are a great idea if you are looking for high quality cookware for your kitchen needs. A grill pan allows you to cook with the flavor and style of a backyard grill. The grill pans in the Calphalon collection are known to provide amazing service for decades, and that is exactly why they come with a lifetime warranty. If you love to cook and need something reliable and contemporary for your kitchen, then Calphalon items are certainly the best you can get anywhere in the world. You can find some great deals at online stores and on auction sites like eBay and Amazon on the Calphalon items of your choice.

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Among the best Calphalon grill pans is the contemporary non-stick square pan in the 11-inch width. This is priced at about 40 dollars, and has received some great reviews. The pan itself is made of a hard anodized aluminum that is 98.7 percent pure. It has a stay-cool handle, which is great for stove top cooking, and there is also a capacity indicator line. You can also use it in the oven, since it can handle temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The interior is 3-ply, which makes it a durable non-stick pan for ease of cooking.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Other similar Calphalon pans that have good reviews include the Simply Calphalon Non-stick grill pan that is round in shape, and with a 1-inch capacity. This one is priced similar to the previous style, and has deep ridges in the interior that are perfect for outdoor barbecues. The handle is a contoured stainless steel, with silicone that is meant to be safe for stove top cooking, and is safe to the touch.

The Calphalon Unison is another amazing utensil in the line of Calphalon grill pans. This one is non-stick as well, and is round in shape with a 12-inch grill width. This costs about 10 dollars more than the previous designs, but it is a great deal with the hard anodized aluminum pan with heavy gauge quality, and a special non-stick sear interior. The textured interior is great at sealing in the flavors in the food that is being cooked.

The Calphalon Grill Pan - Getting Outdoor Cooking Flavor Indoors

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Can I Use Regular Detergent in a Front Load Washer?

Front load washing machines greatly differ from that of top load washing machines. One of their screaming differences is the choice of detergent. In front load washers, it is highly suggested to use HE detergents or high efficiency detergents.

Many people ask why there is a need to use HE detergents. Why not just use regular detergent? There is no stopping you from using regular soap for your front loader but I have to say that would be suicide for your machine.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

A front load washer has different washing cycles compared to top loaders. Unlike the latter, the former has more friction in its functions. It therefore easily produces soap suds. Regular soaps easily produce soaps suds even though you only use a meager amount of it.

When too much soap suds appear in your washing machine, it can confuse your front loader. The functions will mess up in the long run. In addition to this, it may lead to the improper rinsing of your clothes.

Also, if you use regular detergent for front loading washing machines, your warranty claim will be rendered void. Manufacturing companies do not acknowledge warranty claims with washers that have been used with a regular detergent.

There is no harm in choosing high efficiency detergents. They may be more expensive that the regular ones but their cleaning action is certainly better. These detergents produce fewer suds and are not prone to friction inside the washer but they can still wash your clothes efficiently and get rid of dirt and stains effectively.

Also, you need only a small of that and it will definitely go a long way. In the long run, you will be saving more on money because one package of HE detergent can be used in many a number of clothes washing.

It is also interesting to note that these detergents have been made more eco-friendly due to its manufacturing processes. The packaging is recyclable unlike other detergent brands. In addition to that, most of the ingredients used are natural. If you use one, you are a huge help to Mother earth.

Instead of using regular detergent, why not invest in the powerful action of a high efficiency detergent when you are using your front loader? You will be prolonging the life of your washing machine. You will also be prolonging the life of the world you live in and that is something that cannot be undermined.

Can I Use Regular Detergent in a Front Load Washer?

Dryer Duct Cleaning

How to Conserve Energy by Cleaning Your Refrigerator's Coils

Your refrigerator is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home. This isn't exactly an appliance that you turn on and off every time. The plug is constantly glued to the electricity outlet.

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But by simply cleaning the refrigerator coil, you can lessen energy consumption. The coils actually disperse heat coming from the fridge. But if dirt has accumulated in the coils, the machine will not work as efficiently as it should.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Here are some steps you can follow when cleaning the coils:

Step 1: Locate the coils. Usually, these are found at the back portion of the machine. Most of the older versions of refrigerators have coils located at the back. But if you are using a more modern fridge, you can find these at the bottom part of the machine. They might be covered with a panel or a kick plate.

Step 2: Before doing anything with your fridge, unplug it first. Ask someone to help you pull it forward, away from the wall. If someone is not available to assist you, you can just "walk" the machine forward by pushing one side at a time. If you are using a built-in refrigerator, you can turn off your circuit breaker first.

Step 3: If the coil has a cover plate, remove it first by detaching the spring clips. It depends on the brand and model of refrigerator you are using. Other cover plates are secured with screws. You can use a screw driver to remove the screws.

Step 4: Get your vacuum cleaner. Most vacuum cleaners have narrow attachments included. Use that to get rid of the dust and cobwebs that have accumulated on the coils. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to clean it properly.

Step 5: If oil and grease has accumulated in the coils, use dishwashing liquid and warm water to clean it out. Dissolve dishwashing liquid in warm water and then use a clean cloth to get rid of the oil build up. Dry it up by wiping it with a dry cloth.

Step 6: Put the cover panel back again and then push the refrigerator back to its original place. Plug it in.

It is advisable to clean your fridge's coils two times a year. This will make sure that nothing will obstruct the emission of hot air from the machine. Now your refrigerator will work more efficiently. These cleaning tips can also prolong the life of your appliance.

How to Conserve Energy by Cleaning Your Refrigerator's Coils

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Some Important House Keeping Tips

House keeping has become such an important task for people. It can ensure that people can get so much comfort because they spend time in a clean house. There are many housekeeping tips that can be followed by people to make their abode appear like a haven. These tips can also help in keeping the house in a disciplined state. The upkeep of the house is important to ensure that you enjoy staying in it. A disheveled house is just a cause of pains. Therefore, people should take care of some important chores, which are so necessary for their house. The TV screen although the most used is still an ignored part of the house. Therefore, it is important to dust it properly for making it look elegant. One can also use a dryer sheet so that the dust does not accumulate on the TV stand and the screen. Even the bathroom mirror is such an important part of the home. A bathroom mirror, which has dust on all its nooks and corners, does not reflect well on your own etiquette.

dryer duct cleaning tools

Even appliances need regular cleaning. These appliances present such a drab appearance when they are stained due to spills. The most common appliances, which suffer from dust are like dishwasher, oven, dryer, washing machine and refrigerator. The appliances do not require much cleaning when the stains are removed as soon as they form. Use a cloth and vinegar to wipe off the most easy to form stains. If they are doing cleaned, they are hard to remove from the surface of any appliance.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

The smoke alarms also play an important part because they alert one about fire. Make sure that these alarms work properly and their batteries are changed when expired. Follow these tips for an organized house.

Some Important House Keeping Tips

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Portable Tumble Dryers - The Perfect Solution For Drying Clothes When Camping

If your looking for a portable tumble dryer then your in the right place to get some more information and reviews before spending any of your hard earned money. The term portable can mean different things in regards to tumble dryers because if your looking for a dryer that you can take with you maybe on holiday or camping then you can get these types of dryers but they wont be very big and are often limited to small amounts of clothes that you can dry at any one time.

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You can buy portable dryers for around 0 that is about £130 in the UK, they are a 110v machine that you can use in conjunction with a small generator or a fixed wall socket as well. The other meaning of a portable dryer is the condenser tumble dryer which are hot sellers in homes. The great thing about these types of dryers is that you can position it anywhere in your house or home, like the kitchen, utility room or a lobby and even outside because they do not requires you to have any ventilation as they have a container tray which you simply empty instead.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

If you decide to buy a condenser dryer then make sure you clean the lint on a regular basis as they can be a fire hazard if you get a build up of too much fluff and dust. All you have to do is open the door pull the lint out and give it a clean. After a few good cycles its also a good idea to give it a thorough clean with a small vacuum as well.

Portable Tumble Dryers - The Perfect Solution For Drying Clothes When Camping

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Locating Heating Vents in Floors Or Walls

When you are in the process of building a new home or remodeling an old one, you should seriously give a thought about how the heating vents will look. Since these duct openings become a routine part of our daily lives and we see them around all the time, we tend to ignore their aesthetic importance. The fact of the matter is that a heating duct can be a quite unpleasant site if it doesn't fit in well with the overall decor or theme of a room.

dryer duct cleaning kit

When you are deciding the placement of various features in your house, it is essential that you should also decide on where to install the heating vents. There are a number of locations where you can adjust heating ducts. The location of the vent is very important regarding the effectiveness of the vent. The location determines the air distribution in a room and hence it also determines the effectiveness of the air conditioning. There are some grilles that might blow the heat downwards and be fairly good at warming up a pocket of the room but not be so effective at heating the whole room evenly.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Basic physics tell us that warm air is lighter which is why it always shifts upwards. This is a scientific fact that you need to keep in mind when you're deciding the locations for the installation of the heating ducts. The most preferred location of the heat ducts is the floor. The floor is the perfect location for a heating duct to provide heat to the whole room. Generally, one grille is placed in a room which is sufficient to generate heat throughout the room.

Other common locations for the installation of the heating ducts are the hallways as well as the entry ways. These locations are useful for spreading the heat around the whole house. It is always a good idea to talk to professional heating experts to discuss the best location for your vents according to the heating system you are using. In addition to the placement or the location of the opening, you will also need to take into account the type of material which is used to make the cover. These come in the regular plastic vents, as well as aluminum versions that are painted to match your walls, iron and even even wood veneer, depending on the look you are trying to achieve.

Locating Heating Vents in Floors Or Walls

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Vacuum Truck Cleaning Can Make Air Ducts Spotless!

Vacuum trucks have a wide range of uses in many industries and are probably most associated with cleaning out sewers and septic tanks. There is another use for this extraction vehicle that is becoming more wide known and that is the cleaning of air duct systems. Following is some basic information about this truck and its use in making home and work environments healthier.

dryer duct cleaning equipment

Air Duct System Information

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Most homes are equipped with air duct systems that allow for the circulation of heated and cooled air. It is all part of an energy-efficient home and work environment and modern design has created a much greater 'sealed' climate than used to be possible. Studies have revealed that the atmosphere inside a building is 4 to 7 times higher in pollutants than that outside of a building. Yet most people spend about 80 to 90 percent of their time inside buildings. As a result, the risk of suffering respiratory problems for both young and old alike is increasing.

Over a period of time, air ducts can become an arsenal of particles and material that are dangerous to human health. These particles may include pollen, mouse droppings, animal dander, dust mites, fungus, bacteria, insulation, etc. Surprisingly, other materials can also be found inside the air duct system such as cans, pop bottles, toys, tools, paper, and other debris that further hinders the proper functioning of the system.

A poorly maintained air duct forces all of these possible contaminants into the building and is inhaled every time anyone takes a breath inside this structure. To ensure that the inside atmosphere being inhaled is clean; the duct system should be regularly cleaned and maintained.

Vacuum Truck Information

Vacuum trucks consist of a high-powered suction motor and one large container mounted on a truck chassis. The most common usage for this versatile piece of equipment is for cleaning septic tanks as well as in municipal waste disposal fleets for street cleaning and sewer maintenance to name a few of the many tasks this vehicle can accomplish.

These vehicles are classified based on the following factors: type of material to be extracted; weight; capacity; and other items. The extraction system can be powered either from the vehicle's engine PTO (power take-off) or from a dedicated motor.

Cleaning the Air Duct System

Vacuum trucks have been used by companies offering their services to vacuum residential and commercial air duct systems. The equipment consists of a custom-built high-powered extraction system that removes anything inside the air ducts. Usage of a commercial high-powered truck-based cleaning arrangement allows for more effective and efficient removal of all debris and particles from the conduits that transport the heated and cooled air. This action eliminates hazardous material and particles that are dangerous to one's health.

The initial step is for a company performing such work to send a qualified and trained technician to access the main duct system for cleaning. Upon completion of the cleaning task, that company will conduct a final inspection to ensure that entire air duct system is properly sealed. They can also vacuum the furnace, coils and blowers to remove built-up dirt that reduces proper performance. This alone could reduce heating and cooling expense!

Don't try to attack the dirt in these conduits as a DIY project. Instead, use a company that can do a much more complete cleaning job with that powerful extraction vehicle known as the vacuum truck!

Vacuum Truck Cleaning Can Make Air Ducts Spotless!

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Quick and Easy House Cleaning Tips

House cleaning tips can help you clean the house in half the time and makes it easier for you to get it done and have the rest of the day doing the things that you enjoy. Once you see how easy it is to clean the house fast without much effort, you will want to start cleaning right away and get it done.

dryer duct cleaning kit

Organization and Planning

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Make a cleaning list. You should include everything you need to clean. This will include each room of the home. After you have a list of every room and what needs to be done in each room, you are ready to decide which way will work faster for you. The best way to clean and the fastest is to take a bucket with all you cleaning tools in it and the vacuum cleaner to the first room.

The Bathroom

If you are starting in the bathroom, take along the tub and tile cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner and brush, glass cleaner and a rag or sponge for cleaning the floor. Start at the top and work your way down to the floor. Clean the mirrors first. Then clean the sinks and counter tops. Then move to the tub and clean the surrounding shower wall and the tub. Then move to the toilet. Clean the bowl and the tank cover. Then clean the outside of the toilet. The last step is to clean the floor. Start in the farthest corner and work your way out the door.

Organizing and planning makes your cleaning jobs go so much faster. House Cleaning Tips can only help to save you time.

Cleaning the Bedrooms

If this is the day you plan to clean the bedrooms, strip the beds right away when you get up in the morning and start the wash. This should be done before breakfast. After breakfast, throw the sheets in the dryer and head to the first bedroom to clean. Take your supplies and your bucket as well as the vacuum cleaner.

Straighten up the dressers and nightstands. If you have a ceiling fan, use a feather duster to remove the dust. Then use the vacuum cleaner to vacuum the walls and get any dust bunnies that are forming on the walls. Next, you should clean the mirrors and windows, and then pledge the dressers and headboards of the beds. The next thing you will do is vacuum the floor and wash with soapy water if it is wood flooring. Then get the sheets out of the dryer and make the bed.

After you have finished the bathroom and the bedrooms, you can move onto the living room, dining room and then the kitchen. Just remember to start at the top and work your way down in every room. Saving time is the best house cleaning tips you can have, especially if you really would like to avoid an entire day of cleaning. Keep your cleaning supplies with you and you never need to deviate from you plan for cleaning.

Quick and Easy House Cleaning Tips

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Dryer Vent Cleaning - Understanding Its Importance

Dryer vent cleaning MD is one of the most important things that every homeowner in Maryland should remember. Almost every single home has a dryer today and with it, the importance of keeping the vents clean is even more vital. Whether you use an electric or a gas powered dryer, you would have to ensure that the vents are cleaned on a regular basis. In many homes, since the vents are out of sight, their cleaning is largely ignored. However, ignoring the vents for too long can actually be quite dangerous.

dryer duct cleaning equipment

Vent Cleaning is Important for Every Home

Dryer Duct Cleaning

No matter what brand, type of version of dryer you use at home, dryer vent cleaning MD is one aspect of using a dryer that should not be ignored. There are several reasons why this is important. The first reason is that regular cleaning would actually increase the efficiency of the machine and it would also make the dryer last longer. The dryers that are used in homes are actually quite durable and with just a little care, then can last for decades. These dryers also have lint traps and screens in them. However, the lint traps would only be able to work with an efficiency of around 80%. This means that the rest of the lint would be trapped in the vents.

Save Your Home from Fire

Another very important reason why dryer vent cleaning MD should not be ignored is because a blocked vent can easily cause fire. With regular use, the lint from the clothes would get trapped in the vents. This would block the passage for the air circulation. Since the passage would be blocked, the dryer would have to work harder for drying the clothes and would overheat in the process. When the vents remain ignored for too long, it can cause fire.

Professional Companies Can Help

There are quite a lot of professional cleaning companies in Maryland that can help you keep the dryer vents at home clean quite easily. You would just need an annual or a semi annual cleaning appointment to avoid all the dangers that are associated with blocked dryer vents. These companies have the right equipment and experience that would be needed for this job. They would use special brush and high power vacuum for cleaning out all the debris from the vents.

Whenever you purchase a new dryer for your clothes, keep in mind the fact that it would need to be cleaned and maintained regularly. With regular cleaning, you would be able to save your home and your family from the risk of fire. Regular cleaning would also increase the efficiency of your machine and would help you save on energy bills. It is important for homeowners to understand the importance of dryer vent cleaning MD.

Dryer Vent Cleaning - Understanding Its Importance

Dryer Duct Cleaning

How to Keep Your Haier Mini Refrigerator Fresh

Mini fridges are great if you are a student living away from home or if you are a homeowner with limited space or need a little extra refrigerated storage space. Problem with mini refrigerators is that they seem to take care of themselves and then lo and behold, out of the blue, they develop fridge breath. Alternatively they get turned off with the door in the closed position and develop a bad case of mold which can stink to such a degree that when the door is opened you think the fridge has died!

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Fear not, a compact fridge can be easily cleaned and made as fresh as the day you got it so long as you follow a few simple steps. First off, it is not necessary to turn off your refrigerator to clean it and if it is off already then that is no matter. What you need to do initially is remove any foods or half empty containers that are likely to be producing a smell, if they are past it ditch them, if they are just whiffy food, fine, no problem put them to one side for the cleaning process. Then remove any shelving for cleaning. With the shelving removed, fill a basin or bucket with some warm soapy water and taking a cloth wipe down the interior of the refrigerator from the top down paying special attention to floor of the refrigerator where any spills, or crumbs of old food may have ended up.

Dryer Duct Cleaning

Once you have given the fridge a good rub down with soapy water give the fridge a wipe down with clean non soapy water, a bit of a rinse away if you like. After you have washed down the fridge take a dry cloth and dry off excess water from the interior of the fridge. Give the shelving a good wash in a sink with soapy water, dry off and reposition in the fridge. At this point your fridge should be clean if you have given it the thorough wash down and free of odor.

Now, a good trick from this point to keep the fridge odor free is to take a lemon, cut it in half and allow half of the lemon to sit in the back of the fridge. The lemon will neutralize any smells over time without tainting any foods you have in there. As time goes by the lemon will dry out, just cut a slice off and put back in the fridge. This will keep your fridge smelling fresh and free of bad breath.

To get the best out of the mini refrigerator try to give it a general clean out every 3-4 months. If you have a manual thermostat try to keep it at about half way so the fridge neither frosts up or doesn't get warm promoting odor.

How to Keep Your Haier Mini Refrigerator Fresh

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How to Clean Air Vents

Most ventilation systems in today's home will have air ducts and air vents. You can usually find air vents on the ceilings of homes, on the floor of many homes, on wooden platforms, and also in mobile homes. In general, it is important to keep any vent clean and free from dirt, as it comes in contact with the air you breathe. Breathing in dust is unhealthy and can actually make you and your family sick. Here are easy steps on how you can keep your home vents clean.

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The first step is to use a broom to remove dust from the air vents. The broom can also be used for areas with high air vents, although you have to be aware of the dust that falls. You may use a mop to substitute for the broom to clean high ceiling vents, but make sure that it is damp enough in order to prevent the dust from falling. The wet surface of the mop allows for easy grab onto the dust.

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Then, unscrew the air vent cover slowly being careful of the screws to avoid them falling down the duct. You may get a wet rag and use it to wipe the inside area of the vent. If you have a vacuum cleaner, this can also be used inside the vent. However, it is not advisable to go up too high because you might lose some part of the vacuum cleaner.

You may now clean the air vent cover. If the dust is too thick, the cover of your air vents can be cleaned by washing it. Let it dry, and then you are ready to screw it back on. It is also important to change the air filter once every three months, regardless of how strong the filter is or how expensive it might be.

Don't forget to clean the other air ventilation filters in the house. Normally, the bathroom will have a ventilation fan that may or may not require maintenance. Also check for ventilation in the kitchen. Some kitchens will have ductless range hoods that require the filters to be replace periodically.

The final thing you need to do is to keep the vents free from clutter. Avoid piling up boxes near air vents or placing furniture directly over vents because it can block the air and will make the units work twice as hard.

Your family will breathe a lot easier will a clean and well maintain ventilation system.

How to Clean Air Vents

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The Importance of Air Duct Cleaning

The air ducts in your home are like silent sentries, gathering the debris that is constantly floating in the air. The duct will collect much of it, but just as the filter in your dryer will stop up, so will the air ducts eventually. Los Angeles smog is one of the major reasons that home owners and business owners alike need to be aware of the importance of having their ducts cleaned on a regular maintenance schedule.

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The process of cleaning the air ducts really is not difficult if the right equipment is available to get the job done correctly. The majority of individuals will contract to have this service performed by trained professionals. A professional service often agrees to clean all of the components that make up the duct system with equipment that is needed to complete the job the way it should be done.

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If you are still in doubt that this is important, simply remove the register cover on your central air unit and see for yourself what has collected inside the duct. You will see that the components are contaminated with dust, pollen and even possibly rodent droppings. Moisture could indicate that there is microbiological growth, or mold, which is very dangerous to your health. This is one of the reasons that your home's ducts should be cleaned by a professional service provider.Some companies will use chemicals to kill mold, so you should be informed ahead of time.

Many home owners and business owners are not comfortable leaving while this process is being done, but careful screening of the professional service may well put your fears to rest. Any professional service that you contract with should be able to pass a background check, show proof of certification and show proof of insurance.

When all is said and done, it is very important to keep the air ducts clean in order to have clean air to breathe. This is even more important for pet owners because of the pet hair and dander that usually ends up in the air ducts. Contact professionals in the Los Angeles area and set up an appointment to have your ducts inspected and then cleaned.

The Importance of Air Duct Cleaning

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Air Duct Cleaning As a Home Based Business

With a trend toward indoor air quality becoming of importance to homeowners and office workers who are concerned about health, germs and allergies, now is a good time to consider the possibility of owning a home-based air duct cleaning service.

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What is air duct cleaning? It is a means of using professional equipment to clean the heating and air duct system inside a home or office which is often a breeding ground for dust, mice, pollen, insect debris, pet hair, construction debris and allergens of all kinds. For duct systems that are located under the floor instead of in the ceiling, all kinds of debris can fall through the vents such as dirt, food and liquids which make them gummy, smelly and sticky. In some instances, pets use the vents as urinals which also rusts the floor grills as well as puddles up inside the duct, causing a very strong, offensive odor.

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When a duct system is properly installed and a filter is kept in place and changed frequently, it is rare for a duct cleaning to become necessary. However, not all duct systems are installed properly, and even those that are will develop occasional air leaks or become torn which allows dirt from under a crawl space or dust from within an attic to become sucked into the ducting and accumulate. The same is true when filters are not changed on a regular basis or are left off entirely.

With these types of situations happening in homes and offices everywhere, a home-based duct cleaning business is something to consider, particularly if you're looking for a home-based business that provides a relatively unique service. Before proceeding, it's important to do the homework.

Not all duct cleaning machines are created equal. Some do just a surface job much like an oversized vacuum cleaner while others create a suction throughout the duct system that traps the debris into a HEPA-rated filtering system to purify the air and trap debris. The suction-types of equipment are the best but are more expensive to purchase in that they require both the suction vacuum, an air compressor and hoses through which to blow or spray the debris from one end of the ducts toward the capturing vacuum system. Although this type of set-up is labor intensive, it is preferred and often required by hospitals, clinics and other commercial customers your business may acquire who rely on cleanliness and sterile conditions. It is also the most thorough means of duct cleaning.

It is important to have more than a basic knowledge of heating and air ducting systems before engaging in this type of work. Duct cleaning machine manufacturers sometimes provide classes, but it would help to contact a reputable heating and air contractor to ask for some basic lessons about duct systems. You will need to know how to protect the air handler from flying debris during the vacuuming process and will need to learn some basic electrical safety measures.

Suction type duct cleaning equipment is heavy and averages 100-150 lbs. Most models come on wheels but may need to be lifted up or carried down stairs. Be prepared to get a work out. The air compressor can weigh as much as 250-300 lbs. By using long connective hoses, you may not need to remove the air compressor from the back of a truck or van as long as it is adequately ventilated and supported. Therefore, plan on a duct cleaning job being a two-man (or two-woman) operation.

The average initial investment for duct cleaning equipment is around ,000 to ,000 depending on what type of equipment you choose. It is possible for the equipment to pay for itself within a year or two depending on how quickly the business grows.

Good customers would be heating and air contractors, health care physicians who can refer you to some of their allergy-prone patients, residential customers, hospitals, clinics, day care centers, nursing homes, commercial plants and office complexes.

It's important to learn information about mold and fungus, and if possible, to attend a mold remediation class. This is to learn what duct cleaning can and cannot do to eliminate or prevent mold so that you are not making false claims which can lead to lawsuits -- and so you will know a dangerous mold situation when you see it and can handle it properly.

You might also decide to specialize in sales of products related to duct cleaning such as whole house filtration systems, specialty decorative floor and ceiling grills, dryer vent cleaning, ultra-violet filtering systems, etc. You might also want to provide duct inspection services by working in cooperation with a licensed heating and air contractor and offer duct sealant services when air leaks are discovered.

The only obstacle to owning a duct cleaning business is that not all homeowners or heating and air contractors are convinced of the health benefits or necessity of duct cleaning. It will be up to you to educate the homeowners and businesses in your area since this technology is not readily understood.

A home-based duct cleaning business is ideal for part-time or full-time work. Most residential jobs can be completed within 4-6 hours. All of the equipment and supplies can be easily stored in a van or in a covered pick-up truck bed when you are just starting out. Add some commercial lettering to your vehicle, and you're ready to start.

Air Duct Cleaning As a Home Based Business

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How to Get Fleas Out of Carpet -What Carpet Cleaners and Flea Killers are Available?

Getting rid of household fleas can be an uphill task. You have to treat your pets, which is usually where you would first detect the presence of this pesky friend. Then you would have to get rid of fleas in your house. For this, you would need to cover all areas of your house that is both indoor and outdoor. In other words, practically everything in your house has to be cleaned and treated for fleas. What's most challenging to homeowners with a flea infested home is carpet cleaning. Carpets are good breeding grounds for fleas. The eggs and larva of fleas tend to be embedded within carpets, which makes it more difficult to kill them. If you are looking for solutions to this problem, here are some tips on how to get fleas out of carpets.

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Firstly, you need to vacuum your carpets frequently. Don't use any ordinary vacuum cleaner. Look for one that has powerful suction. It's easy to remove the adult fleas and eggs but the larva tend to cling onto the carpets tightly and that's why you need a vacuum cleaner that is powerful. One important point to note is that the fleas, its eggs and larva will be in the vacuum bag after cleaning. As such, you need to throw the bag away immediately and not keep for future use.

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For further treatment, you may need to shampoo your carpets. You can do so by dumping the carpets into soapy hot water and leave overnight. Alternatively, you could simply throw them into a hot dryer. The soap and heat will kill off the adult fleas, its eggs and larva.
There are also carpet flea killers in the form of sprays available. Look for one containing growth inhibitors like Nylar as it helps to interrupts the flea life cycle and keeps the flea population down.

Instead of chemicals, which some may fear to be too toxic, there are also safer products available. Borate powder is an example of an effective yet relatively safe product, which has been reported to be highly popular. It comes in finely milled powder form, which can cling onto carpets providing long lasting effects.

However, take note that carpet cleaning alone would not solve your problem. Check out the section on "House Flea Control" which shows you a well thought out step-by-step plan to eradicate all fleas . You would also find treatments and products that you can follow and use to ensure better success in your attempts to remove these pesky creatures

How to Get Fleas Out of Carpet -What Carpet Cleaners and Flea Killers are Available?

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What to Do With a Noisy Washing Machine?

A noisy washing machine is very common. This happens even to front load users. You see, most front load users have balance control features. Usually, the washer produces noise when the clothes in the washer drum is not loaded evenly. But machines with balance control features can effectively even out laundry.

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However, if this feature is not enough to lessen the noise of your machine, you can try the following tips:

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Tip 1: Place your washer on a platform. The platform will make sure that the machine is in a very upright position. If you placed your washer on the second floor of your house, the floor might be uneven. This is probably the reason why it is vibrating or producing a lot of noise. A platform can help even out the washer itself.

Tip 2: Clean the machine. Accumulation of molds, mildew and soap residues in the motor area of the machine can easily cause noise. The machine is not running smoothly. Open up the machine using the washer's manual as you guide. Once you have opened the motor, prepare your cleaning materials. Mix one part of white vinegar, one part baking soda and two parts water. Get a clean rod and strips of cloths. Wrap the cloth around the rod and secure it tightly. Dip cloth in the cleaning solution. Clean out the dirty parts of the motor. Make sure you remove accumulated molds and residues. Vinegar can effectively loosen up accumulated debris. After cleaning the motor part, you can clean the rest of your washer. Run an empty water cycle and then add one cup of white vinegar. Allow this solution to finish cleaning your washer.

Tip 3: Check your machine for signs of loose objects. Loose objects such as buttons and coins can get stuck somewhere in the washer. So before washing your clothes, inspect the pockets first. Remove coins. Also sew loose buttons tightly.

Tip 4: Replace the drive belt. If the machine is producing unnecessary noise and movements during the spin cycle, the drive belt is probably the problem. If the drive belt is already worn-out, you need to replace it with a new one. Open the motor and remove the old belt. Replace it with the new one. This will help you save a lot of money on repairs.

Tip 5: Place rubber soles on the feet of the machine. This will help muffle the sounds of the machine. It will also absorb vibrations.

What to Do With a Noisy Washing Machine?

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Air Cleaner Purifiers - What You Need to Know to Purchase the One That Best Suits Your Needs

So you want to invest in an air cleaner purifier? Great! Air cleaner purifiers are perfect for in the home, office, or business location. So if you have a smoker in the building, a child at your feet or someone with asthma or allergies, you are doing them a great blessing by purchasing an air cleaner purifier.

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To start off with, you will want to decide if you want to get a room air purifier, for a specific room in the location, or an air cleaner purifier to work on the entire space at the location you choose. Air cleaner purifiers vary greatly in the amount of coverage they can handle. They can range anywhere from about 150 sq. ft. to about 3000 sq. ft. Find out how big of a space your room, home or business is. For a business location, you may need more than one air cleaner filter.

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Next, you will want to decide upon the type of filtration you want to use. There are many different types to choose from. You will see filtration types such as Photo-Ionization, HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air), Fiber/Foam, Carbon Media, Ionizers, Ozone Generators and UV (Ultraviolet) Light. There are other types out there, this is just a list of the main types.

Photo-Ionization units are capable of improving the air quality of not just one room but an entire house, even multiple floors. The cleaning and disinfection process occurs as a result of the free radical formation that develops when ozone gas reacts with a high-intensity broad spectrum UV light on a trimetallic target (copper, silver and titanium). The resulting advanced oxidation gasses are dispersed into the air. The cleaning and disinfection process occurs as a result of the free radical formation that accompanies the decomposition of the oxidation gases, which is accelerated by high intensity targeted UV light. This type of unit treats all the air and surfaces in your building that the treated air can reach. Thus, the unit is considered an "active" air purification system because it brings the remedy right to the sources of the contamination. Most others are passive, only treating the air that passes through the filter.

HEPA filters are certified to remove 99.7% of all 0.3 micron-sized particulates. These units usually require frequent filter changes which may be expensive as well. Odors, gases, pesticides and many bacteria will not be removed with this type of unit. They may also be on the noisy side of the spectrum.

Fiber/Foam filters will not remove the fine particulate

Air Cleaner Purifiers - What You Need to Know to Purchase the One That Best Suits Your Needs

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Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum - Charcoal Review

The Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum with Charcoal is a very special vacuum due to its unique design.

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The 0213 Charocal it's the most popular of the Kone models and it is used for small cleaning jobs around the house. Many people choose to go with a Kone because of its elegant design, which can sometimes be confused with a piece of art.

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Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone Features Reviews

* The 0213CHR is a cordless handled vacuum
* It comes with a 7-1/5-volt rechargeable battery and plug-in charging base
* The 1-1/2-inch-wide nozzle and the soft rubberized tip have the purpose of protecting the furniture and for an in-depth cleaning
* easy-to-empty dirt cup
* cord storage
* It is available in 5 different colors
* 3 years limited guarantee

The Dirt Devil Kone m0212 is easily used by twisting the top of the cone (which serves as the handle) off its plug-in charging base and you're ready to roll.

Pros

One of the biggest advantage of owing a Dirt Devil Kone is its sculptural design, which can proudly be displayed anywhere in your house. The sleek shape blends in easily with any type of furniture and the glow can be considered a nightlight. It comes in different colors, it's very light and easy to use.

The second advantage is that because the Kone is displayed in very accessible areas, it is used more often. You don't have to go into your storage or closet to get the vacuum because it's right there in front of you! Let's not forget the rubberized tip which can protect even the most expensive furniture.

Cons

The Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone with Charcoal is not necessarily a powerful system, therefore can only be used for small cleaning tasks. Even then there's a small chance that it will blow some dust while working. It is a little noisy for its size and the dirt cup is fairly small and needs to be emptied often. One other concern is that the battery does not last long but this is a small drawback comparing the many benefits this vacuum has to offer.

Conclusion

The Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum with Charcoal is the perfect choice for small daily cleaning jobs and if you are looking for a stylish vacuum that you can display in your house. However, if you are looking to clean large surfaces Dirt Devil's Kone might not be for you.

Dirt Devil 0213CHR Kone Cordless Hand Vacuum - Charcoal Review

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