Dryer Vent Cleaning & Inspection in South San Francisco

## Residential Dryer Exhaust Cleaning and Inspection Dryer Vent Specialists performed a comprehensive dryer exhaust cleaning and inspection at a South San Francisco residence. Our technician conducted a full system evaluation covering every component of the exhaust path, from the dryer connection point to the exterior termination cap. The inspection checklist verified key safety and code compliance items including duct material type, total equivalent duct length, backdraft damper operation, joint sealing, support intervals, and proper independent termination to the outdoors per IRC M1502.2. ## Transition Duct Replacement A standout item from this visit was the installation of a new UL 2158A-rated transition duct. The previous transition duct did not meet current code requirements. Under IRC M1502.4.3, transition ducts must be listed and labeled to UL 2158A, must not exceed 8 feet in length, and must not be concealed within construction. The replacement duct installed is a compliant semi-rigid metal transition duct, which features a smooth interior finish that resists lint accumulation far better than ribbed foil or vinyl alternatives. Prohibited flexible foil and plastic transition ducts trap lint at 4 to 8 times the rate of smooth-wall metal duct and can present a serious fire hazard, so replacing non-compliant material is always a priority item on our inspections. ## Cleaning and Airflow Verification With the new transition duct in place, the technician performed a full lint removal on the exhaust duct run using a rotary brush system. Lint accumulation inside a dryer vent is the leading contributing factor in the approximately 2,900 residential dryer fires reported annually by the U.S. Fire Administration. A clean duct restores proper airflow (manufacturers typically require 300 or more CFM at the termination), reduces back-pressure on the dryer motor, lowers exhaust temperatures at the connection point, and cuts drying times. The exterior termination cap was inspected for free operation of the backdraft damper, which must open under airflow and close by gravity when the dryer is off, as required by IRC M1502.3. ## South San Francisco Service Area This job is a good example of the proactive dryer vent maintenance that keeps South San Francisco homes safe and efficient. Annual or biannual cleaning is recommended for most households, with more frequent service for high-volume users. If you are experiencing longer drying times, a hot dryer cabinet, or a duct run that has not been cleaned in over a year, contact Dryer Vent Specialists to schedule your inspection today.