Is a Bird Nest Blocking Your Dryer Vent?

It starts with a chirping sound in your laundry room. Then, you notice your clothes are still damp after a 60-minute cycle. Finally, a burning smell fills the house. The culprit? A bird family has decided your nice, warm dryer vent is the perfect nursery.

While birds are cute, a nest in your dryer vent is a critical fire hazard that blocks airflow and traps dangerous carbon monoxide.

Why Birds Choose Dryer Vents

Dryer vents are attractive to starlings, sparrows, and other cavity-nesting birds because they are:

• Warm: The heat from your dryer provides free incubation for eggs.
• Safe: The tube protects them from hawks and other predators.
• High Up: Vents are usually located well off the ground.

The Dangers of a Nest Blockage

Other Risks Include:

• Carbon Monoxide Backup: If you have a gas dryer, the exhaust fumes (CO) cannot escape. They will back up into your home, posing a deadly health risk.
• Appliance Damage: The lack of airflow causes your dryer to overheat and work 2-3 times harder, burning out the heating element or motor.
• Mites & Bacteria: Bird nests are often full of bird mites, which can migrate into your home and bite humans and pets.

How We Fix It

Removing a nest isn't as simple as pulling it out. If you break the nest, debris can fall deeper into the ductwork.

1. Inspection: We verify if the nest is active (eggs or chicks). By law, some migratory birds cannot be disturbed until they leave.
2. Extraction: We use specialized hooks and vacuums to remove the entire nest structure without leaving debris.
3. Sanitization: We clean the duct to remove droppings and mites.
4. Prevention: We install a bird guard—a durable cage that allows air to flow out but stops animals from getting in.