One of the items that are frequently neglected in a home is the dryer vent. Cleaning your dryer vent is more than removing the dryer lint when it is full. Having a clean dryer vent boosts efficiency, reduces drying time, and prevents fire hazards. A clogged vent forces the dryer to work harder, increasing drying times, and higher energy bills.
Cleaning your dryer vent is easier than you think and it should be done every six months. You’ll need a wire lint brush, vacuum with hose attachment, and dust mask. To clean your dryer vent follow these steps:
- Put your dust mask on so you don’t breath in the lint and debris particles as you’re cleaning.
- Remove the dryer lint trap and clean it with the wire lint brush. The wire brush will loosen hidden lint that’s stuck.
- Attach a nozzle to your vacuum (a shop vac will work as well) and carefully vacuum up the loose lint and dust from the compartment.
- Put the dryer lint trap back into place.
- Pull the dryer from the wall so you can access the vent system and unplug the dryer. If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas valve before unplugging.
- Disconnect the vent hose. Some clamps are held together by screws, so you will need a screwdriver; other clamps can be pushed and pulled together without a tool.
- You will use the wire brush to loosen the debris inside the vent hose and then you will use the vacuum hose attachment (or shop vac) to vacuum out lint and debris until the hose is clean.
- Now you are ready to clean the dryer duct. Insert the wire brush to dislodge debris and vacuum. Step and repeat until it is clean. (Some professionals recommend using a leaf blower to blow out debris to the exterior of the home.)
- Now, go outside and check the exterior vent cover. Remove debris and use soapy water if it needs to be cleaned. If you do not already have a vent guard installed, you may want to consider purchasing one. The vent guard prevents critters and rodents from entering through the vent.
- Go back inside, clean the dryer panel, reconnect the vent hose to the dryer and wall, and plug the dryer back in.
- Run a short cycle to test and ensure everything is reassembled properly.
Be sure to clean out the dryer vent after each load; do not wait until it is full. Lint buildup is created faster than you might think. If you do not keep up on the dryer vent maintenance, you are putting your household at a higher risk to fire hazards and spending unnecessary money on your energy bill.