Lint can accumulate in dryer vents over time, making it difficult for your dryer to function properly. Lint build-up also poses a fire hazard by restricting the flow of air that cools internal components such as motors and heating elements. If you notice that your clothes take longer than normal to dry or if they come out damp on the second drying cycle, then it's likely that your vent is clogged. The best way to clean a dryer vent is by hiring a professional. However, if you want to DIY it, here's how to clean a dryer vent like an expert.
What Should I Use To Clean My Dryer Vent?
To clean your dryer vent, you'll need the following:
- Vacuum
- Dryer vent brush
- Drill
- Screwdrivers
How to Clean an Outside Dryer Vent
Follow these simple steps to clean your dryer vent from the outside:
Turn Off Your Dryer
First, locate the vent that will be cleaned, unplug it or turn off its gas supply. This is to avoid having air blowing in your face while you're cleaning—which can be uncomfortable—as well as electrical hazards working with components.
Clean The Inside
To begin, unscrew the grille over your dryer vent to gain access to the inside. Then, insert a brush into the ductwork. This is critical for removing clogs from outside your home's walls. To remove the lint, use a drill with a bristle attachment. If you don't have access to that, poke an empty broom handle through it at regular intervals until all of the fluff has been removed from the ductwork of your dryer. If you don't have a drill, brush the inside of the vent with vigorous scrubbing hand motions to remove dust and lint.
Collect Lint With The Vacuum
If you haven't used a shop vac, you'll likely get a shower of lint and dust when you pull the brush out. One advantage of learning to clean dryer vents from the outside is less clean-up than in the laundry room. Clean up the dirt with the vacuum.
Clean And Replace The Vent Cover
Clean the cover and unclog anything stuck in it with wipes or soap and water, if necessary. Reattach the screws to secure the vent cover back into place!
How Frequently Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent?
At least once a year, you should clean the lint from your dryer's vent. If your clothes aren't drying as quickly, are hotter than usual, the outside of the dryer is getting hot, or the outside vent flapper isn't opening properly, you should clean it more frequently.
What's Next?
Having a clean dryer vent can save you money on energy bills, extend the life of your dryer and reduce your risk of fire. It may be possible to try DIY solutions on how to clean a dryer vent, but if you're pressed for time or don't want to risk damaging the ducts, having a professional do it is probably best.
At 4 Ducks Duct Cleaning, we offer professional dryer vent cleaning services and guarantee your satisfaction. We can ensure that your dryer works properly and efficiently, so you don't have to worry about taking forever to dry or getting hot spots on your clothes. If this is a problem for you, give us a call!