Spring is just around the corner and it’s time for cleaning – gutter and dryer vent cleaning, that is.
Gutter Cleaning
As a homeowner, gutter maintenance becomes easy to overlook, but keeping your gutter clean is essential for a safe and long-lasting home. Gutter neglect can lead to all kinds of damages on your roof, the exterior of your house, and your driveway. That is why it’s important to have your gutters cleaned and serviced twice a year in spring and fall. Not cleaning your gutters can lead to leakage when standing water is present, harmful and filthy-looking mold, roof damage, insects and other pests, and driveway damage. Rotting leaves, sticks, and other natural refuse is an ideal food source to many pests coming out of hibernation and inviting them into your home. If your gutters are blocked, water damage to your roof could give them a way in and create more damages than an evening clearing out some debris is worth.
Gutter cleaning can also be dangerous. Doing it yourself isn’t that complicated; it requires a ladder and getting your hands dirty. However, it can be exhausting, time-consuming, and unsafe if you’re not careful. If you’re in good physical health to climb ladders and have the balance required to not run the risk of harm, wear goggles to protect your eyes from debris and equipment, bring a friend to help secure your ladder and be an extra pair of eyes, and prepare your materials before hand so you know exactly where everything is and that your tools are within easy reach. If you’re unprepared however, it’s best to leave the cleaning to a professional gutter cleaning service provider.
Dryer Vent Cleaning
Dryer vents need to be thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis to keep your dryer running effectively and to keep your home safe. By cleaning your dryer vent, not only will your clothes dry faster without the negative impact on your system due to extra drying time, but it can also lower your power bill. The longer it takes to dry your clothes & linens, the higher your electricity bill will be. Clogged dryer vents significantly increase the amount of time it takes for your items to dry. Cleaning your dryer vent is also an important factor in home safety. Every year, fire departments across the US respond to home fires caused by dryers according to the National Fire Protection Association. These fires are caused by lint accumulation, meaning a lack of dryer vent cleaning can become a dangerous situation quickly. Cleaning your dryer vents annually will significantly reduce the chances of dryer fire.
Signs of a clogged dryer vent include lack of efficiency from your unit, a burnt smell around your dryer, a machine that’s hot to the touch, and a dryer duct hood flap that refuses to open. These warning signs could mean it’s time for your vents to be serviced and that your machine may be on its last leg. Don’t put yourself or your family at risk and have your dryer vent professionally cleaned by Merreot Home Solutions today!
