Troubleshooting
7 Signs Your Dryer Vent Is Clogged
If you're seeing any of these in your San Antonio home, your vent is probably restricted. Most are easy to confirm in under a minute.
1. Clothes take two cycles to dry
The most common sign. Moist air can't escape, so clothes stay damp.
2. The laundry room feels hot or humid
Heat that should be exiting the house is staying inside the room.
3. A burning smell when the dryer runs
Trapped lint heating up. Stop running the dryer and book an inspection.
4. The dryer top is hot to the touch
The dryer is overworking to push air through restriction.
5. Lint at the outside vent opening
Visible lint clumps or a cover that won't close all the way.
6. No airflow at the outside vent while running
Easy test: walk outside, the flap should be blowing open.
7. It's been over a year (or you can't remember)
Texas heat plus heavy dryer use shortens the safe interval between cleanings.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
+Can a clogged vent cause a fire?
Restricted airflow makes the dryer run hotter and traps lint, which is flammable. Keeping vents clear is a basic, well-known safety practice.
+How long after these signs should I act?
Soon. Most of these symptoms get worse fast in San Antonio's heat because the dryer works harder year-round.
+Do new dryers ever cause this?
Even new dryers can't push air through a clogged vent. The dryer isn't the problem — the vent is.
+Can I clean it with a leaf blower?
It might dislodge surface lint but it won't reach deep packed lint, and it doesn't address damaged covers or duct issues.
+What's the fastest fix?
Book a free inspection. Most clogged vents are cleaned and back to normal airflow the same visit.