Mory's Blog

Dryer Vent Repair Technician in Chicago Discusses Solar Clothes Drying to Reduce Carbon Emissions

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:22:12 -0500

Air-drying clothes with drying racks or a clothes line can reduce the average household's carbon footprint by over 2,000 pounds per year

Chicago, IL - Most Americans see the automatic clothes dryer as a necessity; however, more are becoming aware of the huge amount of energy they can save by drying some of their laundry with drying racks or a clothesline. Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard in Chicago said, "The clothes dryer is among the top 5 energy users in most homes. I don't recommend giving up the automatic clothes dryer altogether; but using a clothesline part of the time will reduce energy usage and the impact on our environment."

Most Americans will refuse to quit using modern conveniences; even though they may cost money to operate, the time savings is valuable. Mory has discovered that some of his regular clients use the clothes line when the weather is right to reduce heat and humidity inside their home as well as reduce energy costs. "I have had customers tell me they enjoy the advantage of "solar drying" because it is free. Besides saving energy, line-drying saves on the need for fragrant laundry detergents and chlorine bleach. The sun naturally disinfects and gently bleaches whites; the fresh air leaves laundry smelling fresh."

In any case, if you do use your clothes dryer, even part-time, dryer vent cleaning and proper maintenance is required to keep it operating safely and efficiently. Your clothes dryer works very similar to the clothesline, drying your laundry with heat, forced air and tumbling action. Both require airflow; unlike the clothesline with unlimited airflow, your dryer ducts and dryer vent system can become clogged with lint. Lint blocks airflow, overworking the clothes dryer and increasing drying time. Lint clogged vents can eventually lead to a dryer fire.

Mory Matias owns and operates Dryer Vent Wizard, a dryer vent repair, cleaning and installation company who serves consumers and business owners in North Side Chicago and North Shore Suburbs. Visit http://www.dryerventwizard.com to learn more.

Solar Clothes Drying is Free: Save Energy, Reduce Carbon Emissions says the Dryer Vent Repair Wizard of Chicago

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:20:37 -0500

Most Americans see the automatic clothes dryer as a necessity; however, more are becoming aware of the huge amount of energy this appliance requires to run. The clothes dryer is among the top 5 energy users in most homes. Air-drying clothes with drying racks or a clothes line can reduce the average household's carbon footprint by over 2,000 pounds per year.

Other Benefits of a Clothesline

Over 15,000 house fires are caused by a clothes dryer each year when lint builds up in the dryer vent system and ignites.

What is dryer lint? Where does it come from? All that lint in your lint screen after each load of laundry is your clothes wearing away! The clothes dryer actually shorten the life of your clothes by over-drying them.

Enjoy being outdoors, hanging laundry on the clothesline, rather than cooped up in a hot, humid laundry room. The sun naturally disinfects and gently bleaches whites; the fresh air leaves laundry smelling fresh. This saves you money fragrant laundry supplies and chlorine bleach.

Don't Give up your Dryer

This isn't to say you should throw out the clothes dryer, just use it less to save money and reduce the impact to the environment. There will be times when the weather isn't right for hanging laundry outside.

You might also use the dryer for some of your laundry and the clothes line for some. Some people choose to tumble their clothes for a few minutes to shake out wrinkles and then hang it to dry; others will prefer to tumble clothes after they have dried if they feel stiff. Part-time use of your clothes dryer will help save energy too.

Mory Matias owns Dryer Vent Wizard of North Shore Chicago; Dryer Vent Wizard specializes in all dryer vent exhaust issues. They provide dryer vent repair, cleaning and installation while educating consumers on dryer fire prevention and energy saving tips. Visit http://www.dryerventwizard.com to learn more.

Glenview Resident Expresses Relief as Dryer Vent Cleaning Expert Spots a Fire Hazard

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:58:46 -0500

Besides being clogged with dryer lint, the old vinyl dryer vent system had deteriorated, causing dryer exhaust to leak into the home

Glenview, Ill - Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard, a dryer vent cleaning and dryer exhaust specialist serving the Chicago area was recently applauded for saving a customer from experiencing a dryer fire. During a recent interview, Mory said, "There was a misunderstanding; the customer expected me later in the week. When I showed up, she was doing laundry and the room was very hot and humid. I insisted on stopping the dryer to inspect and provide services immediately. What I found was a serious fire hazard."

As Mory pulled the dryer away from the wall he noticed the vinyl hose leading to the vent outdoors was cracked, sagging and full of dryer lint. "The excess material was bunched up and crushed behind the dryer as the owner pushed it against the wall. This blocks the air flow which is one of the most important things a dryer needs in order to work," said Matias.

Mory replaced the dryer vent system with semi-rigid metal as he explained what he was doing and why it was necessary. The customer was pleased with his service and relieved as she realized that he probably saved her home from a dryer fire. "I'm going to add dryer vent cleaning to my regular appliance maintenance schedule and insist that Mory personally perform the service," said the happy customer.

According to Dryer Vent Wizard, proper installation, meeting city, state and manufacturer codes is important for preventing dryer vent problems that can increase drying time and cause a fire. Plastic or foil, accordion type ducting material should be replaced with rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct, as specified by most manufacturers, to provide maximum airflow. Read Mory's blog at http://dryerventcleaningglenview.blogspot.com/ for more tips on dryer vent cleaning and maintenance.

Dryer Vent Wizard, Dry Clothes Safe Homes is a member of the National Fire Protection Association and the largest chain of dryer vent cleaning, repair, replacement and alternation specialists in the U.S. with over 50 franchisees in major markets in the U.S. Visit http://www.dryerventwizard.com

Is Your Dryer Vent Properly Installed? Advice from the Wizard of Glenview, Illinois

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:56:05 -0500

It is important that your dryer vent system meet current safety codes; inferior dryer vent systems or improper dryer vent installation can cause problems with your clothes dryer. Your clothes dryer requires air-flow; when the dryer exhaust system is not functioning properly it can cause a fire.

Vinyl or flexible foil is no longer acceptable venting material for your clothes dryer. Though this type was commonly used in the past, it has been discovered to be unsafe and inefficient. Vinyl or flexible foil venting is easily crushed when the clothes dryer is pushed up against the wall. Or, it sags, allowing lint to build up and restrict air flow.

Some flexible metal pipes are acceptable, but they are not recommended. The best material to use is rigid metal which does not sag or become crushed. Parts should be joined with metal tape, not duct tape or screws which protrude to the inside and catch lint.

Your dryer vent system removes heat, moisture and lint from your laundry as it is being dried. If you have a gas dryer, it is also removing gas by-products including carbon monoxide from your home. All clothes dryers should be vented to the outside of your home at least three feet from windows and entrances.

Professional dryer vent cleaning is recommended at least once a year to keep your appliance running efficiently and safely. The fee for this service is small compared to the cost of repairing or replacing an over worked clothes dryer, or the cost of losing your home or even your life.

Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Chicago only installs rigid metal dryer vent systems. Mory will do a thorough inspection of a customer's dryer vent system and explain what needs to be done to make the system safe and efficient. DVW technicians are happy to spend time with customers to educate them on dryer fire prevention and energy savings. Learn more at http://dryerventcleaningchicago.blogspot.com/

Dryer Vent Cleaning and Repair Technician Serving Chicago Area Continues to Receive Acknowledgement

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:35:04 -0500

Most clothes dryer exhaust systems inspected have a problem that needs to be corrected so the dryer runs efficiently and safely

Chicago, IL-Mory Matias of Dryer Vent Wizard, a leading dryer vent cleaning company, has noticed the biggest safety hazard in clothes dryers are the ducts which run from the back of the dryer to the outside of the home. Mory services the North Side of Chicago and the North Shore Suburbs of Cook and Lake Counties in Illinois. "When customers complain about dryers taking too long to get clothes dry, this is a warning sign that indicates restricted air-flow in the dryer vent system," said Matias in a recent interview.

When Mory inspects dryer exhaust and venting systems there are at least 10 factors to look at, including ducts, vents, airflow and the amount of lint built up in and around the dryer. "I find a problem with nearly every dryer vent system that I inspect," said Matias.

Mory recalled an issue with a recent customer who thought her clothes dryer was worn out because it was taking two or more cycles to dry a load of laundry. "She actually threw out her clothes dryer and purchased a new one!" exclaimed Mory. "It was lucky for her that she saw my van in the neighborhood and called the number to order service. I could not believe that the appliance delivery service hooked her old vinyl dryer duct to the new clothes dryer. To make matters worse the tubing was way too long and the excess material was coiled and jammed behind the clothes dryer. It was also full of lint."

Mory explained that the flexible foil and vinyl types of dryer ducts are no longer in compliance with today's UL safety codes. "Vinyl ducts are really designed to be used for bathroom exhaust fans. Dryer Vent Wizard only installs dryer ducts made of rigid or semi-rigid metal which is smooth inside to minimize lint build-up."

Mory made the necessary corrections to the dryer duct system and explained to the customer that she probably did not need to replace her clothes dryer. "I think it broke her heart that she had spent money on a new appliance when all she needed was an upgraded dryer vent system. I explained how clothes dryers require proper airflow to operate efficiently and safely. Though she was unhappy about the added expense of replacing the clothes dryer, she was very grateful that she saw me in the area and learned a valuable lesson in dryer fire prevention."

Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago was awarded the prestigious 2008 Angie's List Super Service Award. This award is given to companies who have achieved and maintained a superior service rating on Angie's List throughout the past year. Fewer than 5 percent of the companies on Angie's List meet the eligibility requirements to be considered for this award.

To promote public awareness and educate consumers on dryer safety Mory has written articles and posted them to his blog at http://dryerventcleaningchicago.blogspot.com/

Dryer Vent Cleaning or Replace the Clothes Dryer? Expensive Lesson Learned by a Chicago area Consumer

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:33:36 -0500

All appliances require proper maintenance in order for them to work safely and efficiently. Unfortunately, too many people take their clothes dryers for granted; fill it with wet laundry, set the dial, turn it on and remove dry clothes 30 - 45 minutes later.

I recently got a call from a woman who purchased a new dryer because the one she had was taking several cycles to get her clothes dry. She assumed it was old and worn out. The delivery man installed the dryer and she began using it, but she noticed that it ran very hot. I just happened to be in her neighborhood on a service call and she took down the number printed on my work van. I went to her home after completing the job I was on.

The first thing I noticed was that the dryer duct was the old vinyl type and it was longer than necessary. The excess tubing was coiled and jammed behind the dryer while the rest of it extended about 10 feet to the dryer vent outside. When I disconnected it from the dryer, I noticed that it was full of lint. I found it unbelievable that an appliance deliver person would attach this dirty old thing to a new appliance. I explained to the customer how her dryer is unable to vent the hot air; therefore working too hard, wasting energy and it's a fire hazard.

I explained that this type of venting is not in compliance with today's safety codes. The vinyl material is really designed for bathroom exhaust fans and not for clothes dryers. We only install dryer ducts of rigid or semi-rigid metal that is smooth inside to minimize lint build-up.

I also broke her heart when I explained that she probably did not need a new dryer. She needed a better dryer exhaust system. The dryer ducts and dryer vent are responsible for removing lint, heat and moisture from the dryer drum to the outdoors. If you have a gas dryer the system also removes gas by-products from your home. A poorly vented gas dryer can cause carbon monoxide to leak into your home.

When the dryer ducts are clogged with lint then heat cannot escape the dryer drum; they system overheats and the lint catches on fire. Lint is very combustible; therefore, fuel for a rapidly spreading fire. Clogged dryer ducts also cause a dryer to cost an additional $18-24 per month to operate.

Mory Matias is the owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago, specializing in dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation. Mory specializes in all dryer exhaust issues as he educates his customers on the importance of annual dryer vent cleaning and proper dryer vent installation to prevent fires and save energy. Read more great articles written by Mory Matias at http://dryerventcleaningwilmette.blogspot.com/

Dryer Vent Cleaning and Dryer Exhaust Issues in New Chicago Homes

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 23 May 2009 11:09:34 -0500

If you live in a newer home you may be thinking everything is up to code because the home was built more recently than others in your area. Surprisingly, dryer venting and dryer exhaust systems are often improperly installed. I've seen newer homes with the dryer venting into the attic. Builders will defend this practice saying it is OK; however, the law states that a clothes dryer must be vented outdoors.

Improper dryer venting can cause serious problems in your home. The dryer exhaust removes the heat and moisture from your dryer to the outdoors. If your dryer is venting into an attic, basement or crawl space, mildew is allowed to grow. Mold and mildew cause damage to your home and problems with your health, namely, upper respiratory irritation. Worse yet, it is a fire hazard. Lint is highly combustible, making great fuel for a quickly spreading fire.

As your dryer runs the blower motor pushes the hot, moist air through the dryer duct to the vent outdoors. The problem is that there is a limit as to how far the motor can push the air. The longer the ducts and the more bends and turns they have, the more resistance there is.

Smooth metal pipe is recommended by clothes dryer manufacturers today; not the plastic corrugated venting that is so popular due to easy installation. Flexible foil and vinyl vents can easily become crushed behind the dryer, blocking air flow and creating a fire hazard.

It is OK to vent a dryer through the roof if you use the right type of exhaust hood to draw out the hot air. A hood with a wide flange is the best type for a roof-top dryer vent. A dryer should not be vented through the soffits.

If you live in an area where the climate is cooler be sure your vent pipe is properly insulated to prevent condensation from running down the pipe and leaking down the pipe and pooling under the dryer.

Sections of dryer duct should be properly joined, using metal tape, not screws that protrude into the duct to catch and trap lint.

The best dryer exhaust system is semi-rigid metal, smooth inside, joined with metal tape, as short as possible and has as few turns as possible. Professional dryer vent cleaning is recommended each year to be sure your system is working properly. A dryer vent system that is properly installed and properly maintained will increase the life of your clothes dryer, save energy and prevent a fire.

Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard, specializes in dryer vent and dryer exhaust. Mory provides professional inspections, dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation in the North side Chicago area in Cook and Lake Counties. Read more articles containing appliance maintenance tips on Mory's blog at http://dryerventcleaningchicago.blogspot.com/

Dryer Exhaust Specialist in Chicago Inspects Dryer Vent Installations in New Homes; Finds Problems

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 23 May 2009 11:07:16 -0500

Improper dryer exhaust installation is even common in newer homes and just as much a fire hazard as in the older homes

Chicago, IL - Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard in Chicago, recently inspected a dryer exhaust system in a newer home. The homeowner was confident that everything would be correct and up to code because the home was less than one year old.

Mory looked behind the clothes dryer and he was happy to find that the proper material was used for the dryer ducts; semi-rigid metal instead of corrugated plastic or vinyl. The pieces were joined with metal tape rather than screws that protrude into the inside of the ducts to catch and trap lint.

Mory followed the duct to see where it ends; he was disappointed to find that it went right into the attic. "There was a pile of lint in the attic and I could see that mold and mildew was growing on the rafters," said Mory. "Mold will eventually cause the rafters to rot. Mold spores in the home cause upper respiratory problems for people too. By law, the dryer must be vented outdoors. If you have a gas dryer, you are also risking carbon monoxide in your home."

Mory also explained the importance of properly insulating a dryer duct that goes through the roof to prevent condensation from running down and perhaps pooling behind the clothes dryer. It is also important to have the proper type of exhaust hood with a wide flange for dryers that are vented through the roof.

The best dryer exhaust system is made of semi-rigid metal, smooth inside, joined with metal tape and is as short and straight as possible. Mory explained, "The longer your dryer exhaust pipe is, the more resistance there is to air-flow. Bends and turns also cause resistance. Proper air-flow is essential for a clothes dryer to work safely and efficiently, saving energy and preventing fires."

Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard provides professional dryer vent inspections, dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation in the Chicago area. http://www.dryerventwizard.com has a policy that all technicians explain to their customers how their dryer exhaust system works and how to properly maintain the system between annual professional visits.

The Chicago Wizard is Ranting, Raving and Venting about Dryer Vent Cleaning

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 02 May 2009 11:16:16 -0500

Dryer vent cleaning and maintenance prolongs the life of your dryer, saves on energy bills and prevents fires

Chicago, Ill - Mory Matias is known for his efforts to promote public awareness of dryer vent cleaning and proper dryer exhaust maintenance to prevent fires. Some people would say that Mory is constantly "venting" about dryer vent cleaning.

Mory is often overheard by others when he is speaking to consumers or apartment building managers about the danger of lint build-up in dryer ducts. "Think about what the dryer vent and exhaust ducts are removing from your home," said Matias. "Heat, moisture and lint must escape the dryer drum in order for clothes to come out dry. In addition, if you have a gas dryer, then proper venting is essential to prevent carbon monoxide from leaking into your home."

Mory says a lot about the danger of lint build-up, in just a few words, "Hot sticky lint builds up on the inside of your dryer duct to the point of restricting air flow, causing overheating, and eventually, a fire. Lint being very combustible, adds plenty of fuel for a fire to spread quickly."

Mory also talks a lot about the old fashioned vinyl or plastic venting systems that all dryers used to have; sadly, many still do. "There are a number of problems with vinyl, plastic and flexible foil dryer ducts; they crack and break, they're easily crushed or the excess tubing is coiled and stuffed behind the dryer, making it impossible for it to vent hot air and lint. Using materials that do not meet current safety standards can void the warranty on your clothes dryer."

Dryer Vent Wizard of Chicago provides dryer vent cleaning and dryer vent services to residential and commercial customers in Cook County, Arlington Heights, Chicago, Oak Forest, Lake County and neighboring cities and communities.

The Chicago Wizard is Ranting, Raving and Venting about Dryer Vent Cleaning in Glenview

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sat, 02 May 2009 11:10:21 -0500

There is a man on a mission to prevent clothes dryer fires in Chicago. He is a dryer vent cleaning and dryer exhaust specialist who is concerned with the safety of consumers and business owners in his community. Some say he is constantly ranting, raving and "venting" about dryer vent cleaning. The Chicago Wizard vents:

Dryer Vents and Ducts

Your clothes dryer requires proper air-flow in order to do its job efficiently. The dryer vent and exhaust duct is responsible for removing heat, moisture and lint from your laundry as it dries. Hot moist lint that escapes the lint screen often ends up stuck to the sides of the dryer exhaust duct; though some will make it to the vent outdoors.

Dryer vents and ducts are also responsible for removing gas by-products from your home; if you have a gas dryer, poor venting can result in carbon monoxide leaking into your home.

Lint Build-up Restricts Air-flow

Eventually, trapped lint will build up in the dryer duct, or inside the dryer near the motor, causing the dryer to work harder to do its job. The harder the dryer is working, the more you are spending on energy to operate the dryer, and the greater the chances are that the dryer will break down. Dryer vent cleaning helps to save energy and reduce the need for repair expenses as it prolongs the life of the dryer.

When the dryer is taking more than one cycle to properly dry a load of clothes, chances are likely that the ducts are clogged with lint. Heat and moisture cannot escape the dryer drum. You may also notice that clothes are very hot when you remove them, or that the outside of the dryer is very hot.

When lint is allowed to build up to the point of restricting air-flow it causes overheating which eventually leads to a fire. The lint is very combustible; therefore, fuel for a fire that will spread quickly.

Properly Installed

In addition to proper maintenance, a dryer duct and vent system must meet current safety standards. Too many people are still using the old plastic, vinyl or flexible foil type of venting for their dryers. These are no longer considered to be safe for several reasons.

Vinyl or Plastic deteriorates, cracks and breaks
The flexible foil type is easily crushed or bent, restricting air flow and trapping lint
Excess venting material is often coiled or stuffed behind the dryer, trapping hot air, moisture and lint
Use of incorrect venting materials can void the warranty on your dryer

These are just a few of the problems associated with an insufficient dryer duct system. The ideal venting is short, has few turns, is smooth inside and is made of semi-rigid metal.

Mory Matias is the Chicago Wizard; owner/operator of Dryer Vent Wizard serving the Northshore Chicago area. Mory provides dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation services while he explains the importance of proper maintenance to his customers.

Dryer Vent Cleaning: Fire Prevention Tips for Consumers in Chicago

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 15:31:47 -0500

ryer Vent Cleaning: Fire Prevention Tips to be Aware of

Have you ever given any thought as to the service your clothes dryer is providing? Imagine the heat required to dry your clothes. Imagine the heat produced by a fire! Clothes dryers are often placed in confined spaces where fires can build and spread quickly.

Also confined is the lint that builds up in the dryer vent system, no matter how efficiently is it working. Your dryer vent system takes heat, moisture and lint from the clothes dryer to the vent outside, but some of the moist lint will stick to the sides of the dryer ducts, where it forms a paste and dries. As more lint sticks to this dried paste, the system becomes clogged, reducing air flow and eventually igniting. A dryer fire can be most devastating as it burns very hot and spreads quickly.

So, your dryer vent system is clean and free of lint clogs, but the dryer is still taking too long to dry a load of laundry. Clothes feel very hot when you remove them from the dryer. What can be the problem? Something you may not have thought of.

A few days after dryer vent cleaning service was performed, it snowed...a lot! Snow has drifted against the outside of your home and blocked the dryer vent! Unaware of the problem, you continue using the dryer; as heat tries to escape, it melts the snow a little, then as it freezes, your vent is frozen shut, making it even more difficult for heat to escape.

Freak accidents cannot be anticipated; that is why they are called freak accidents! Always check the vent outside to be sure it is not obstructed. Dryer vents should be a few feet off the ground, but drifting snow can block them. When your dryer is running, look outside to be sure you see steam coming out of your dryer vent and that it is opening while the dryer is running and closing when the dryer stops.

Another cause of a clogged vent could be small animals, or birds that are attracted to the warm area. They crawl inside and build a nest. Check your outside vent often to be sure it is functioning properly and not letting unwelcome critters into your home.

Appliance maintenance not only keeps appliances in working order to avoid wear and tear and repair bills, it also helps in keeping appliances running efficiently to reduce energy costs and safely to prevent a fire. Professional dryer vent cleaning is recommended at least once a year, to be sure your dryer vent system is properly maintained and that it meets current safety standards.

Mory Matias is the owner of Dryer Vent Wizard in Chicago, Illinois. Dryer vents are Mory's specialty; he is an expert who inspects, cleans, repairs and installs dryer vent systems while educating consumers on dryer fire prevention and energy savings. Read Mory's new blog for more dryer vent cleaning and safety tips.

Northshore Chicago Dryer Vent Cleaning Technician Earns Coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:17:23 -0500

Award reflects company's consistently high level of customer service

Chicago, IL - Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago has been awarded the prestigious 2008 Angie's List Super Service Award!

The Super Service Award, now celebrating its 10^th year, is given to companies who have achieved and maintained a superior service rating on Angie's List to meet the eligibility requirements to be considered for the award.

"Our super Service Award winners are the cream of the crop when it comes to customer service," said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List.

Mory Matias, the owner/operator of Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago states, "We are truly honored to be awarded this prestigious award. We strive for complete satisfaction with our customers, who are naturally very conscientious about safety and energy savings by seeking our services in the first place!" DVW specializes in dryer fire prevention and "urgent response" dryer vent cleaning, maintenance, repair, replacement and alterations. http://www.dryerventwizard.com services keep dryer appliances functioning efficiently, prevent dryer fires and reduce energy costs.

Angie's List Super Service Award winners have maintained a total and overall grade of "A," have not received a minimum number or reports; are NOT in the Angie's List "Penalty Box" and do NOT have an unsatisfactory rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie's List, but members can find the 2008 Super Service Award logo next to company names in search results on AngiesList.com.

Angie's List is where thousands of consumers share their ratings and reviews on local contractors and companies in more than 425 different categories. Currently, 750,000 consumers across the US rely on Angie's List to help them find the right contractor or company for the job they need done. Members have unlimited access to the list via Internet or phone; receive the Angie's List magazine, which includes articles on home improvement and maintenance, consumer trends and scam alerts; and they can utilize the Angie's List complaint resolution service.

Contact:

Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago

Mory Matias

Phone: 773-484-3509

Email: mmatias@dryerventwizard.com

The Wizard of Oak Forest Advises Dryer Vent Cleaning to Extend Appliance Life

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:22:54 -0600

All major appliances require some regular maintenance in order to operate efficiently. Failure to properly maintain appliances increases their chances of breaking down, or causes them to labor or work harder to perform their task. This leads to increased energy bills and a chance of an appliance repair or replacement bill. When dryer vent cleaning and maintenance is neglected, there is yet another danger; a clothes dryer fire.

Here are some items you should know about clothes dryers and dryer vent systems:

•· The lint trap should be pulled and cleaned after each load of laundry

•· Residue can build up on the lint screen over time; it should be washed with soap and water about once a month

•· Avoid putting rags soaked with oil, gasoline or other combustible substances into the dryer, even if they have been washed

•· All flammable materials and liquids should be stored well away from the clothes dryer

•· Order professional dryer vent cleaning and maintenance at least once a year

•· Have your dryer duct and vent system inspected to be sure it is up to UL Safety Standards

•· Do not use vinyl or plastic material for your dryer ducts; use only semi-rigid or solid metal

•· Keep the outside vent clean and check it often for blockage, damage or freezing

Proper maintenance of your dryer vent system will keep you safe from a fire, save money on energy bills, and reduce the risk of appliance malfunction or break-down. The small service fee for a dryer vent cleaning and inspection is little compared to the savings it offers in preventing a fire and prolonging the life of your dryer.

This article was written by Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Chicago, Il. Most consumers are unaware that annual dryer and dryer vent maintenance is required to keep the dryer running properly and to prevent dryer fires. Additionally, annual maintenance can save energy. Dryer Vent Wizard specializes in dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation.

Dryer Vent Wizard of Chicago services residential and commercial buildings in Cook County, Arlington Heights, Chicago, Glenview, Evanston, Elmhurst, Cicero, Oak Lawn, Oak Forest, Orland Park, Tinley Park, Schaumburg, Wilmette, and neighboring cities and communities.

Phone: 773-484-3509

Web: http://www.dryerventwizard.com

Email: mmatias@dryerventwizard.com

Dryer Vent Cleaning, Repair and Installation Evanston, Illinois

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:17:41 -0600

Don't let your dryer start a fire; keep your home safe and sound. Dryer Vent Wizard professionally inspects and cleans clothing dryers for homeowners and in commercially-owned buildings. Poorly maintained dryer vents cause fire hazards and cost substantially more to operate.

Why Dryer Vent Cleaning is so Important!

•· Dryer vents clogged with lint cost $18-24 more per month to operate

•· There are 15,500 fires every year caused by failure to clean dryer vents

•· Dryer manufacturers recommend you clean your dryer vent every year

•· Regular dryer vent cleaning prolongs the life of your dryer

Dryer Vent Wizard Provides the following Services:

•· Dryer vent cleaning

•· Dryer vent repair

•· Dryer vent alterations

•· Dryer vent installations

Contact Dryer Vent Wizard for a complete inspection today!

Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago

Mory Matias

Phone: 773-484-3509

Email: mmatias@dryerventwizard.com

Website: http://www.dryerventwizard.com

Service area: North Side Chicago and North Shore Suburbs, Cook and Lake Counties, Evanston, Wilmette, Lincolnwood, Skokie, Morton Grove, Keniworth, Glenview, Northbrook, Northfield, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Deerfield

and neighboring cities and communities.

Dryer Vent Wizard, Servicing Evanston, Illinois and Chicago Consumers says Dryer Vent Cleaning is the Leading Defense against Dryer Fires

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 12:30:55 -0600

With all we know about the importance of appliance maintenance, for example, furnace cleaning; few think about their clothes dryer maintenance, beyond the obvious need to keep the lint filter clean. Ask your self the following questions regarding your clothes dryer:

Have you been noticing your clothes dryer working less efficiently lately?
Has it been taking an hour or more to dry a load of laundry?
Do clothes have a moldy smell when you remove them?
Is your laundry hot to the touch when you remove it from the dryer?
Do you see lint build-up behind and around the dryer?

If you have answered ‘yes' to any of these questions, it is time to have your dryer vent system inspected for air-flow problems that eventually lead to a dryer fire.

Dryer Vent Wizard recommends professional dryer vent cleaning every year to keep your clothes dryer running efficiently and safely. Lint clogged dryer vents restrict the necessary air-flow needed by your dryer to remove lint and moisture from clothing and send it outside through your dryer vent. Contact http://www.dryerventwizard.com to order a thorough dryer vent inspection today.

Dryer Vent Wizard provides dryer vent cleaning, dryer vent repairs, dryer vent installation, and dryer vent inspections in North Side Chicago and North Shore Suburbs, Cook and Lake Counties and neighboring cities and communities.

Dryer Vent Cleaning and Maintenance could have Prevented Dryer Fire in Oak Forest, Just outside Chicago

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 12:23:21 -0600

Thankfully, no one was injured and damages were minimal due to the homeowner recently installing additional smoke detectors

Chicago, IL -- A recent dryer fire, reported in Oak Forest, Ill, located about 24 miles southwest of Downtown Chicago, could have easily been prevented with proper dryer vent maintenance. As the woman looked at the charred remains of her home, she was thankful for one thing; she had taken the precaution to have additional smoke detectors installed in her home. She did this a few months before, when a neighbor was killed in a tragic house fire.

The woman was home alone, doing laundry, when she heard the smoke alarm in the basement. She went to check it out, didn't see flames, but the room was full of smoke. She quickly called 911 as she got her dogs out of the home.

Within minutes, Oak Forest firefighters battled thick smoke and put out the fire. The smoke was so thick they had to break out a window to let it out so they could see. This occurred within minutes.

The fire destroyed the dryer, damaged the washer, and did additional damage to the laundry room; all will be taken care of by her homeowner's insurance.

The fire fighters told the woman that she was smart to install the additional smoke detectors; without them, she would not have been aware of the fire soon enough to avoid further damage and the possibility of losing her home. Credit is also owed to the quick response of the fire fighters.

When Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard, heard the news, he was naturally upset. In a recent interview, Mory said, "Though I'm glad no one was hurt and damages were minimal, this tragedy could have been prevented altogether with proper dryer vent cleaning and maintenance. Yes, smoke detectors are very important, but so is proper appliance maintenance, and fire safety and prevention awareness in all areas of the home."

According to Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago, most consumers are unaware that annual dryer and dryer vent maintenance is required to keep the dryer running properly and to prevent dryer fires. Additionally, proper maintenance saves on energy and other associated costs. Learn more at http://dryerventcleaningchicago.blogspot.com/

Contact:

Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago

Mory Matias

Phone: 773-484-3509

Email: mmatias@dryerventwizard.com

Website: http://www.dryerventwizard.com

“Dryer Vent Cleaning” “Dryer Vent Installation” Chicago, Illinois

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 14:52:30 -0600

Why Dryer Vent Cleaning is so Important!

•· Dryer vents clogged with lint cost $18-24 more per month to operate

•· There are 15,500 fires every year caused by failure to clean dryer vents

•· Dryer manufacturers recommend you clean your dryer vent every year

•· Regular dryer vent cleaning prolongs the life of your dryer

Our services include:

•· Dryer vent cleaning

•· Dryer vent repair

•· Dryer vent alterations

•· Dryer vent installations

Contact:

Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago

Mory Matias

Phone: 773-484-3509

Email: mmatias@dryerventwizard.com

Website: http://www.dryerventwizard.com

and neighboring cities and communities.

The Wizard of Chicago Recommends: Dryer Vent Cleaning to Increase the Life of Your Clothes Dryer

Mory Matias (Dryer Vent Wizard of Northshore Chicago) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 14:49:28 -0600