How To Clean a Dryer Vent

By: Michelle

Content Writer

14 min read

Intermediate

< 2 hours

Make sure to keep your dryer vent clean with routine maintenance. We've outlined the steps to safely and properly clean your dryer vent to keep your dryer working its best and keep your home safe from potential fire hazards.

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How To Clean a Dryer Vent

Cleaning your dryer vent may not be something you think about too often, but it plays a crucial role in keeping your home safe and your clothes dry. Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in the dryer vent, leading to reduced efficiency, longer drying times and even safety hazards. Let's take a look at how to clean your dryer vent and why it's essential to do so.

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Signs of a Clogged Dryer Vent

Before you begin cleaning, it's important to recognize the signs of a clogged dryer vent. If your dryer takes longer to dry laundry or your clothes come out damp at the end of the cycle, a clogged vent may be the culprit. A clogged vent can cause your dryer to overheat, potentially leading to a fire hazard. If you notice a burning smell when you run your dryer, this is a sure warning sign. If you notice lint collecting around the dryer or on the floor, this is another clear indicator of a vent issue. If drying times are consistently longer than usual, your dryer vent probably needs attention. All of these signals could be telling you of issues with your dryer vent. Don't ignore these issues, as bigger problems can unfold if you wait too long and do not clean your dryer vent. You'll need the following items to clean your dryer vent:

Screwdriver
Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
Dryer vent brush
Gloves and safety goggles
UL-listed Duct tape

Safety Precautions

Safety should be your top priority when cleaning a dryer vent. Begin by turning off the dryer and unplugging it. For gas dryers, shut off the gas supply. Make sure you wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from dust and debris. If possible, work in an area with good ventilation to prevent inhaling lint and dust.

Steps to Clean a Dryer Vent

Once you've gathered everything you need, it's time to begin cleaning your dryer vent:

Remove the Dryer Lint Screen: Begin by pulling out the lint screen and removing any lint. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean the screen thoroughly.
Disconnect the Dryer from the Vent: Unplug the dryer and, if applicable, detach the vent hose or pipe from the back of the dryer. This may require a screwdriver.
Clean the Lint Trap and Screen: Using your vacuum cleaner, clean the lint trap and screen area. Be meticulous, as lint can build up here and affect airflow.
Vacuum the Dryer Vent and Duct: Insert the vacuum hose into the vent and duct to remove lint and debris. If your dryer vent is long, you may need a dryer vent brush to reach deep into the vent.
Clean the Exterior Vent Cover: Go outside and inspect the exterior vent cover. Remove any debris or lint buildup, then replace the vent cover. This is crucial for proper airflow.
Reconnect the Dryer and Test: Reconnect the vent hose or ductwork to the dryer and plug it back in. If needed, use the duct tape to seal sections of the ductwork. Run a test cycle to ensure everything is working correctly.

Deep Cleaning

While regular maintenance is essential, it's a good idea to consider professional dryer vent cleaning at least once a year. Professional services have the equipment and expertise to thoroughly clean and inspect your vent system, reducing the risk of fire hazards and improving efficiency.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your dryer vent clean and your dryer running efficiently, you'll want to follow some standard maintenance tips. After each load of laundry, clean the lint screen to prevent lint buildup. Make sure to schedule an annual cleaning of the entire vent system. Consider using dryer vent brushes to reach deep into the vent and duct.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes when cleaning your dryer vent:

Using improper cleaning tools that can damage the vent or duct.
Neglecting the exterior vent cover can lead to blockages.
Not cleaning the vent thoroughly, leaving behind potential fire hazards.

Proper maintenance of your dryer vent is vital for the safety and efficiency of your home. Regularly cleaning your dryer vent reduces the risk of fire and improves drying times. Make it a regular part of your home maintenance routine to ensure your dryer operates smoothly. If you still have questions, give Abt's experts a call at 800-860-3577. You can also check out our dryer buying guide if you're in the market for an upgrade.

Q&A Summary

How do you clean a dryer vent?

First, gather the necessary tools, including gloves, a vacuum and a screwdriver. From there, remove the link screen and clean it. Then, you'll unplug the dryer and detach the vent hose (which may require a screwdriver). From there, you can vacuum out the inside of the vent and duct and clean the exterior of the vent cover. This guide goes into more detail on each of these steps.

How often should you clean a dryer vent?

In general, you should clean your dryer vent at least once a year. If your household does a lot of laundry, you may need to do it more often; if you notice your clothes coming out damp, it's time to clean the vent.

Can you use a leaf blower to clean a dryer vent?

We don't recommend using a leaf blower to clean your dryer vent. Use the steps outlined above, or call a professional.

Can you clean a dryer vent yourself?

Yes, you can clean a dryer vent yourself. With safety precautions and the proper tools, you can do this without professional service. We've outlined the steps to do it yourself above.