When was the last time you cleaned your dryer vent? How do you clean a dryer vent? While most of us faithfully clear out the lint trap after every load of laundry, the duct running from the back of your machine to the outside wall often is neglected.
Over time, lint builds up inside this pipe, restricting airflow, making your washer less efficient, and creating a serious safety hazard. Cleaning your dryer vent at least once a year keeps everything running better.
Why you should clean your dryer vent
- Fire prevention: According to national fire safety data, lint build-up is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires. Lint is extremely flammable, and when trapped near high heat, it poses a real danger to you and your home.
- Lower energy bills: When air can't escape freely, your dryer has to work twice as hard to dry a single load of clothes, which can increase your electric or gas bills.
- Extends machine life: Forcing a dryer to run hot for extended cycles wears out the heating element and motor earlier than if it were cleaned.
Tools
While you can clean your dryer vent with items you probably already have around your house, it’s helpful to purchase a dryer vent cleaning brush kit, which includes a flexible rod and round brush head. Then gather:
- A vacuum with a long hose attachment
- A screwdriver (to loosen hose clamps)
- Duct tape
1. Disconnect the power and gas
Unplug your electric dryer from the wall outlet. If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply valve behind the machine before moving it.
2. Pull out the dryer and unhook the duct
Slide the dryer away from the wall to see the ductwork behind it. Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamp holding the duct to the back of the dryer, then slide the hose off.
3. Vacuum the dryer and duct entrance
Use your vacuum's hose attachment to clear out any lint trapped inside the back of the dryer and the opening of the wall duct.
4. Feed the brush through the pipe
Insert the brush end into the duct opening in the wall, rotating and pushing it back and forth as you advance through the pipe. You’ll be amazed at how much packed lint comes loose. Vacuum up the debris.
5. Clear the vent cap
Go outside to locate your dryer’s exterior vent cover. Remove the screen and clear out any lint, leaves, (or bird nesting materials!)
6. Reconnect and test
Reattach the hose to the back of the dryer and tighten the clamp. Reconnect and run the machine on a low-heat cycle for 5 minutes to blow out any remaining lint.
A better experience
Cleaning your dryer vent doesn’t take a lot of time, and it pays off immediately with faster dry times, lower utility costs, and a safer home. Make this project a regular part of your laundry routine for best results.
