When was the last time you had your dryer vent cleaned? If it’s been over a year—or if you’ve never thought about it—your home could be at risk. Many homeowners don’t realize that dryer vent buildup is one of the leading causes of household fires in the US. Beyond fire hazards, a blocked vent can also affect your indoor air quality and energy bills, creating problems you may not notice until it’s too late.
At 2nd Generation Chimneys, we’ve seen firsthand how clogged dryer vents quietly build into serious hazards. As your home safety and maintenance partners, we’re here to help you spot the warning signs early and take action before problems escalate.
We provide expert dryer vent cleaning in Minneapolis, using advanced tools and techniques to ensure your system is clear, safe, and working efficiently.

Here’s what to watch for:
1. Longer Drying Times
If your clothes are taking more than one cycle to fully dry, that’s a classic red flag. Lint buildup in your vent system restricts airflow, forcing your dryer to work harder and longer, driving up energy bills and wearing out your appliance faster.
2. Burning Smells or Musty Odors
A burning smell when running the dryer can signal trapped lint heating up, one of the most common causes of house fires. Musty odors, meanwhile, may indicate moisture backing up due to vent blockage. Either way, it’s time to call in the professionals.
3. Excess Lint Around the Dryer
While the lint trap collects some debris, a clogged vent will often leave lint scattered around the dryer or laundry area. It’s not just unsightly—it’s dangerous.
4. Overheated Laundry Room
If your laundry room feels unusually hot, that’s another clue that the vent isn’t doing its job. Heat buildup means air isn’t escaping properly, which can reduce air quality and increase fire risk.
5. It’s Been Over a Year Since Your Last Cleaning
Even without obvious symptoms, annual dryer vent cleaning is a critical part of home maintenance. It’s one of the simplest ways to improve energy efficiency, reduce fire hazards, and protect your air quality.
Why Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning Matters
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait. Schedule your professional dryer vent cleaning with a trained technician who understands the intricacies of safe, code-compliant ventilation. Our team is ready to help you restore performance, prevent issues, and improve peace of mind.
Especially in older homes or properties with long duct runs, the risk of unseen buildup is higher. That’s why we offer comprehensive services that go beyond the lint trap—cleaning your entire vent system and checking for blockages or damage you can’t see.
Dryer vent cleaning isn’t just about convenience. It’s about keeping your home and family safe. By including it in your regular home maintenance plan, you’re investing in better air quality, energy savings, and fire prevention.
Make it a seasonal habit. Right now is the perfect time to get ahead of summer heat and humidity.
Contact us today to schedule your dryer vent cleaning and enjoy a safer, worry-free year ahead.