Cleaning your dryer vent is a maintenance task that many homeowners overlook. A clogged dryer vent not only reduces your appliance’s efficiency but also poses a fire hazard. According to the U. S. Fire Administration, failure to clean dryer vents is a leading cause of home fires. Read our guide to learn more about how to clean a dryer vent, signs it may need cleaning, and more.
Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning
Recognizing the signs of a clogged dryer vent can help you address the issue before it becomes a serious problem. Here are some key signs that it’s time to clean your dryer vent:
- Longer drying times: If your clothes are taking longer than usual to dry, it could be a sign that your dryer vent is clogged. A blocked vent restricts airflow, making it harder for your dryer to expel hot, moist air.
- Burning smell: A burning odor coming from your dryer is a serious warning sign. This smell could mean lint has built up to dangerous levels and is potentially overheating.
- Excessive heat: When clogged, heat can build up inside the dryer and the laundry room. If you notice that your laundry room feels unusually warm or that clothes are very hot to the touch after drying, it’s time to clean your vent.
- Musty smell: Musty clothes after a drying cycle mean the dryer isn’t fully removing moisture from them.
- Excessive lint buildup: Unusual amounts of lint buildup after running the dryer could indicate a clogged vent.
How Often To Clean Your Dryer Vent
You should clean your dryer vent at least once a year—make it a part of your annual deep clean. If you have a large household and do laundry frequently, you may need to clean it more often. For those who do laundry daily or have multiple loads each week, semi-annual cleanings might be more appropriate. Also watch to see if your dryer seems to be taking longer to dry clothing, since that might signal there’s a buildup of dust and lint in your dryer vent.
Excessive dryer lint buildup can also pose a fire hazard, since lint is extremely combustible. A significant number of fires are caused by an accumulation of dryer lint—a critical reason to exercise vigilance and clean your dryer vent regularly.
Tools and Supplies Needed for Cleaning a Dryer Vent
To effectively clean your dryer vent, you’ll need a few tools and supplies. There are also specialized kits that often include multiple attachments for more efficient cleaning. Here’s what you should gather before starting:
- Screwdriver
- Vacuum with hose attachments
- Dust mask
- Rags or dust cloths
- Flexible vent brushes (optional)
- Dryer vent cleaning brush or kit (optional)
Step-By-Step Guide To Clean Your Dryer Vent
Follow these steps to clean your dryer vent effectively and safely:
Step 1: Disconnect Dryer from Power Source
This may mean just unplugging your electric dryer from the outlet. If you have a gas-powered dryer, take care to not to disconnect the gas from the supply valve—turn off the gas valve so it’s not flowing to the dryer while you work on it. If you are uncomfortable working with your gas-powered dryer, we recommend calling a professional to maintain your machine.
Step 2: Disconnect the Duct from the Dryer
While working with your dryer vent, wear a protective dust mask. Carefully and gently move the dryer away from the wall so you have access to the rear dryer vent on the back of the machine. You can now disconnect the exhaust duct from the machine. Typically, connections are simply clamped in place, but in other circumstances, you may need to use a screwdriver. Inspect the dryer vent—usually a tube made of flexible plastic or rigid or semi-rigid metal—for any breaks or damage.
Repair any small tears with non-paper tape, like duct tape or metal duct repair tape. If the duct is very damaged, replace it.
Note: Experts, like the International Association of Home Inspectors, recommend replacing any flexible vent tubing with a rigid type if possible. This is because lint can build up in the ribbed curves of the flexible-style tubing, which causes it to build up faster, increasing the risk of fire. You can follow our step-by-step instructions on how to upgrade your dryer vent for enhanced safety and efficiency.
Step 3: Clean the Lint Trap
Your vacuum’s crevice tool should be effective in cleaning out much of the lint from your dryer’s lint trap, but you can also use a soft rag.
If available, use a flexible long brush (such as one for cleaning refrigerator coils or one designed for ducts) to get into otherwise inaccessible nooks and crannies in your lint trap. Make sure you clean the lint from the trap after every load of laundry.
Around the back of the dryer, use the vacuum to clean lint from the machine end of the exhaust duct. Then vacuum debris, lint, and dust from the duct itself. You may want to purchase a simple duct brush kit with an extendable pole to stir up stuck-on dust you can’t reach in the duct.
Afterward, use your vacuum to clean the lint from the machine end of the exhaust duct. Then, vacuum debris, lint, and dust from the duct itself. A duct brush kit with an extendable pole can help dislodge stuck-on dust in hard-to-reach areas of the vent.
Step 4: Clean the Exterior Vent
As long as you have access, you should be able to easily get to the outside port for your dryer vent. This is typically located on an exterior wall (often with a screen or cover to keep animals out).
Unscrew any cover and check for signs of damage that need repair. Use your vacuum to once again suck out any lint and debris, or use your vent brush attachment to gently release lint and then remove it with the vacuum.
Depending on the amount of buildup, you may need to empty your vacuum bag or bin several times during this cleaning cycle.
Step 5: Reattach the Vent and Do a Test Run
When you’re satisfied you’ve cleaned your dryer vent completely, reattach the outer vent cover. Then reattach the interior vent to the dryer itself, being careful that it is secured.
Slide your dryer back into place and plug it back into the electrical outlet or turn the gas valve on.
Check your handiwork with a quick “air” cycle to test flow from outside or run a small load of laundry and make sure the vent stays in place and is working efficiently. You can also test airflow from the outside by holding your hand outside the dryer vent to test the strength of the dryer exhaust.
Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning Services
While many homeowners can clean their dryer vents themselves, there are situations where professional help might be necessary. Consider hiring a professional if:
- Your vent is particularly long or complex
- You’re unable to reach or clean the entire vent yourself
- You’ve noticed severe clogging or haven’t cleaned the vent in several years
- You’re uncomfortable working with your dryer, especially if it’s gas-powered
Cost of Professional Cleaning
The cost of professional dryer vent cleaning can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the job. According to Angi, you can expect to pay between $103 and $184 on average for professional cleaning. While this is more expensive than doing it yourself, it can be worth the investment for thorough, professional-grade cleaning.
Professional services often utilize advanced equipment and techniques to reach areas you might find difficult or impossible to access. This comprehensive cleaning helps extend the life of your dryer and maintain its efficiency.
How To Prevent Dryer Vent Clogs
Prevention is key to maintaining a clean and safe dryer vent. While flexible plastic vents are common, they’re not ideal due to their tendency to trap lint in their ribbed surfaces. Rigid metal vents are the safest and most efficient option for dryer venting. They’re easier to clean and less likely to trap lint. You might also want to install a gas clothes dryer for improved efficiency, but be sure to follow proper installation procedures.
Here are some tips to help prevent clogs:
- Clean the lint trap after every load of laundry
- Perform a visual inspection of your vent system monthly
- Avoid overloading your dryer
- Use dryer sheets sparingly, as they can contribute to lint buildup
Troubleshooting Common Dryer Vent Issues
Even with regular cleaning, you may encounter some common dryer vent issues, such as pest infestations or vent damage.
If you notice signs of pests in your dryer vent, such as nests or droppings, it’s best to call a professional. They can safely remove the infestation and install pest-proof vent covers. You should also Inspect your vent regularly for any signs of damage. You can repair small tears in flexible ducts with metal duct tape, but significant damage may require vent replacement. In addition to regular inspections, consider having a professional conduct a more thorough examination annually. This can help identify potential issues before they escalate into more serious problems.
Our Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your dryer vent not only improves your dryer’s efficiency but also significantly reduces the risk of fire. By following the steps outlined in our guide, you can maintain a safe and efficient laundry room.
If you’re ever unsure about cleaning your dryer vent yourself, it’s always best to consult with a professional. They can provide thorough cleaning and dryer cleaning services to ensure your appliance is running safely and efficiently.