Have you known the best way to Clean Dryer Vent?

Have you known the best way to Clean Dryer Vent when many people view a clothes dryer as a necessary appliance in their homes?

When clean dryer vent, remember using a dryer often leads to the accumulation of tiny fibers, known as microfibers, in the lint trap over time.

Unfortunately, in most cases, some microfiber debris manages to pass through the screen and enters the dryer vent. If the dryer vent is not regularly cleaned, lint can accumulate in it, posing a higher risk of fire and reducing the efficiency of the dryer.

How frequently should you clean dryer vent?

How frequently should you clean dryer vent?

Dryers are equipped with a lint trap designed to catch most microfiber debris.

It is advisable to clean this lint trap after each use to minimize the amount of debris that enters the dryer vent. However, when it comes to cleaning the actual dryer vent, you don’t need to do it as frequently for regular dryer maintenance.

On average, cleaning the dryer vent once or twice a year is recommended, depending on how often you use the dryer.

If you’re uncertain whether your dryer vent requires cleaning or if it can be left for another month, there are several signs to look out for.

One clear indication is if you notice a burning smell while the dryer is running. Another sign that the dryer vent needs cleaning is if your clothes aren’t completely dry at the end of a cycle or if they take longer than usual to dry.

Furthermore, if the dryer unit feels excessively hot to the touch, the laundry comes out hotter than normal, or if the laundry room becomes hot and humid during a drying cycle, it’s crucial to take the time to clean the dryer vent.

It’s worth noting that flexible plastic, foil, or vinyl dryer vents tend to accumulate microfiber debris more quickly than straight dryer ducts, which can increase the risk of fire.

If your home has such types of vents, it is recommended to upgrade to rigid metal ducts for enhanced safety when you clean dryer vent.

How to Deeply Clean Dryer Vent

Materials Needed

• Shop vac with hose attachment
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Broom
• Lubricant spray
• Microfiber cloth
• Dryer duct cleaning kit
• Soap
• Bucket

Instructions

1. Remove and Clean the Lint Trap:
   • Locate the lint trap on top of the dryer or at the bottom of the dryer door.
   • Pull out the lint trap and remove any large pieces of lint.
   • Use a shop vacuum with a thin hose attachment to clean the inside of the lint trap housing.
   • Optionally, use the brush from the dryer duct cleaning kit to scrub the inside of the lint trap housing.
2. Locate the Dryer Vent:
   • Find the indoor vent end, typically behind or above the dryer.
   • Locate the outdoor vent end, usually on the exterior of the home near the laundry room.
3. Disconnect the Dryer:
   • Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas supply valve if applicable.
   • Slide the dryer out about one or two feet from the wall to access the indoor vent end.
   • If needed, ask for assistance to move the heavy appliance.
   • Disconnect the dryer from the dryer vent, either by sliding it out of the vent connection bracket or unscrewing it.
4. Vacuum the Dryer Vent:
   • Plug in the shop vacuum and use the long hose attachment.
   • Vacuum any loose lint around the vent opening.
   • Insert the shop vac hose into the dry exhaust vent to collect debris.
5. Brush Out the Dryer Vent:
   • If the vent is too long for the vacuum hose, use a dryer duct cleaning kit.
   • Feed the vent cleaning brush into the dryer vent and add extensions if necessary.
   • Attach the brush to a drill if applicable and use the drill rotation to clean the inside of the vent.
   • Slowly pull the brush out of the vent, collecting the debris.
   • If the brush cannot be attached to a drill, manually move it back and forth while rotating to clean the vent.
6. Vacuum the Exterior Dryer Vent:
   • Go outside and check the vent opening, ensuring the slats move freely.
   • Use a lubricating spray like WD-40 if the slats are stuck.
   • Connect the Vacuum Cleaner and use a long narrow hose attachment to collect debris around the vent entrance.
7. Brush Out the Exterior Dryer Vent:
   • If needed, set up the vent cleaning brush outside.
   • Feed the brush into the vent and add extensions as necessary.
   • Rotate the brush manually or attach it to a drill for efficient cleaning.
   • Debris may come out of the vent when removing the brush.
8. Sweep Up Any Debris:
   • Use a microfiber cloth and warm Soapy Water to clean the exterior vent cover.
   • Sweep or vacuum up any loose debris that came out of the dryer vent.
   • Inside, sweep or vacuum up hair, lint, and other debris that fell out of the dryer vent.
9. Reconnect the Dryer:
   • Reconnect the dryer to the dryer vent.
   • Plug in the dryer and turn on the gas valve if applicable.
   • Double-check the connections and slide the dryer back into position, ensuring the ductwork is not crushed.
10. Test the Dryer:
    • Put the lint screen back into the dryer.
    • Turn on the dryer to ensure it is functioning correctly.
    • The dryer should vent hot air outdoors without any issues if everything is done correctly.

*The information is for reference only.