Back-to-school laundry means more dryer cycles for many Newport News households. A change in dryer performance is a reason to check the appliance and vent—not proof by itself that the vent is blocked.
Simple checks homeowners can make
- Clean the lint filter before and after every cycle, as the U.S. Fire Administration advises.
- Check that the vent behind the dryer is not crushed, disconnected, or visibly restricted.
- During operation, confirm the outdoor vent cover opens and that the exhaust path is not visibly obstructed.
- Keep lint from accumulating behind the dryer.
When to pause use and get help
If the dryer smells like something is burning, stop the cycle and do not run another load until the cause has been checked. If there is smoke or fire, leave the home and contact emergency services. A longer drying time or a vent flap that does not open calls for inspection; it does not identify the cause on its own.
Whether your laundry room is in Denbigh, Kiln Creek, or another Newport News neighborhood, use the appliance manual and have damaged or restricted venting assessed by a qualified professional. Learn about our dryer vent service.