24/7 Main Phone
Tips from San Diego’s Trusted HVAC Experts
At 1-877 Appliance Heating & Air, we’ve seen it all—from dryers that won’t heat to machines making mysterious thuds in the night. But one issue we take especially seriously is dryer fires. It’s not just a nuisance—it’s a real safety risk. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 3,000 home dryer fires are reported each year, most of them caused by something totally preventable: lint build-up.
If you’re a homeowner in San Diego or anywhere with a laundry machine, this guide is for you. Here’s how you can keep your dryer running safely and efficiently—straight from the professionals who repair and maintain these machines every day.
This one might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people skip it. The lint trap should be cleaned before or after every load—no exceptions. Even a thin layer of lint restricts airflow, making your dryer work harder and raising the temperature to unsafe levels.
Bonus tip: Every few weeks, wash the lint trap with soap and water to remove fabric softener residue that can block airflow.
The flexible or rigid duct that runs from your dryer to the outside of your home is your machine’s exhaust system—and it needs attention too. Lint can and does build up in there, especially if the duct is long or has multiple bends.
We recommend inspecting the duct every 3–6 months and doing a deep clean at least once a year. Not sure how? That’s where we come in—1-877 Appliance Heating & Air offers full dryer vent cleaning services throughout San Diego.
Your dryer might be trying to tell you something. Look out for these red flags:
Clothes take longer than usual to dry
The outside of the dryer gets unusually hot
A burning smell during or after a cycle
Lint around the door seal or inside the drum
The vent hood flap outside doesn’t open while the dryer is running
These signs could point to poor airflow or internal build-up—both major fire risks.
Overloading your dryer may seem like a time-saver, but it’s actually doing more harm than good. A stuffed dryer reduces airflow and forces the machine to work harder, creating more heat and friction. That’s a dangerous combo.
Stick to recommended load sizes in your dryer’s manual—and if you’re unsure, err on the side of less.
Believe it or not, some materials should never go into your dryer. Items soaked in oils (even natural ones like linseed or cooking oil), rubber-backed rugs, and foam can all become dangerous when exposed to heat.
Always read care labels and if in doubt, air dry. Safety first.
Like any appliance, your dryer needs occasional professional attention. A technician can:
Inspect internal components for wear or buildup
Ensure wiring and electrical connections are safe
Test airflow and vent pressure
Deep-clean parts you can’t easily access
At 1-877 Appliance Heating & Air, our expert technicians perform these checks and more. It’s peace of mind—and often a money saver in the long run.
If your dryer vent duct is the old accordion-style plastic or foil type, it’s time for an upgrade. These materials can sag, trap lint easily, and in the worst cases—catch fire. We recommend switching to a rigid or semi-rigid metal duct for better safety and performance.
Not sure what type you have? We’ll inspect and upgrade it for you.
We’re not just here to fix problems—we’re here to help you prevent them. As a San Diego-based company, we know the local needs, and we’re always just a call away. Whether it’s routine maintenance, an emergency repair, or a dryer vent overhaul, our certified technicians have the skills and experience to keep your home safe and your appliances in top shape.
Don’t wait for a warning sign to act. Call 1-877 Appliance Heating & Air today and schedule a professional dryer inspection or vent cleaning. We proudly serve the greater San Diego area with fast, honest, and top-rated service—because your safety is our priority.
