How to Clean a Dryer Vent - 4 Easy Steps

Posted July 21st, 2022

Having clogged or dirty dryer vents can prevent your dryer from working at optimal performance. When you combine heat and lint that accumulates this can lead to a fire hazard in your dryer vent. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, “Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires."

We will go over the safest and best way to clean your dryer vent so you can keep your home and loved ones safe. It doesn't matter if you have an electric dryer or a gas dryer, this guide will help you either way!

Even if you clean the lint filter after every use lint still builds up in the exterior vent outside. A few indications that you have a lot of lint buildup in your vents are if your clothes seem to be taking longer to dry or if your clothes dryer is getting hotter over time when you touch it.

Steps To Cleaning Your Dryer Vent

What You Need:

• Vacuum with a Hose Attachment

• Brush

• Gloves

Step 1: Clean Inside & Outside

First, you'll want to unplug your dryer. If it is a gas dryer, turn the supply valve off while you work to prevent gas from leaking or accidentally igniting. Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the duct. You'll notice lint tends to build up in the dryer exhaust duct on the back of the dryer.

Loosen up the lint and debris with a brush kit and use your vacuum to suck up the dirt and lint. Next, use the vacuum in the same area to suck up lint outside. However, you might need to remove the vent hood.

Step 2: Inspect Your Duct For Damage

Check your duct for damage or if any part of it is punctured. If you notice there is a tear or dent you should replace it before reattaching it again.

Step 3: Reconnect the Dryer

Once you have cleaned out all parts of the vents and duct you can reconnect your dryer. If you have to, seal sections of ductwork with UL-listed metal foil duct tape.

Step 4: Position Your Dryer

Push your dryer back into place and plug it back into the wall. Next, turn the gas valve back on. Wait 20-24 minutes and test your dryer on air dry or fluff mode to ensure everything is connected properly.

Tips To Avoid Lint Build Up

So, now you cleaned your dryer, and you're done, right? No, not exactly. You should do your best to avoid any lint build-up on a continuous basis so you can rest easy knowing your home is safe.

• Dust and sweep any lint or build-up around your dryer regularly.

• Before you run the dryer again, always remove your lint screen and clean out any extra debris. Not only is it easy, but your load of laundry will dry better.

• Depending on how often you dry your clothes, you should use a vacuum to suck up any lint in or around the lint screen.

• Finally, use a scrub brush that isn't too harsh where it can damage your screen to wash it with warm water and soap.

Removing lint regularly and keeping tabs on your dryer is an essential part of making sure your clothes are drying properly and your home is safe for the entire family. If for any other reason your home does catch on fire and you aren't cleaning your dryer regularly this can make the situation worse.

If you notice your electricity bill starting to increase over time this could be another motivating reason to clean your dryer properly. You'll save money, keep your house safe, and dry your clothes efficiently with just a little bit of effort.

At Queen City Audio Video Appliances, we have several options when it comes to buying a new dryer. Choose between electric dryers, gas dryers, portable dryers, and stackable washers and dryers from the leading brands in the laundry industry. If you are looking for the “best laundry appliance store near me” you can visit any of our appliance store locations in Charlotte, Salisbury, Morganton, Monroe, Pineville, and our new store coming soon in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.