Yes, dryer vents need regular cleaning to be safe and perform properly. They should be cleaned yearly and there are two primary reasons why.

Reason number one: According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission there are an average of 16,700 dryer vent fires a year. And the number continues to rise. Why? Most people don't know their dryer vents need to be cleaned. They clean out their lint filter now and then and think that's it. But the dryer vent duct is where lint can really build up and get clogged. And lint is highly flammable, accounting for most dryer vent fires.

In addition to lint buildup, improper installation of your dryer vent system can also pose a serious danger to you. A dryer vent cleaning professional will detect potential hazards such as the presence of flammable vinyl duct or a duct run that is improperly routed. So, ensure your family's safety with a professional inspection.

Reason number two: Lint buildup takes more energy (and money) to dry your clothes. If your dryer isn't drying your clothes like it used to, you may not need a new dryer! A dryer vent clogged with lint reduces airflow so your dryer doesn't dry as efficiently as it used to. An inefficient dryer also uses more energy, thereby costing you more money.