To clean out a dryer vent, follow these steps for a thorough and safe cleaning:
- Clean the lint trap compartment by removing the lint screen and vacuuming out any hidden lint inside it.
- Pull the dryer away from the wall to access the vent system safely. Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas valve if it has one.
- Disconnect the vent hose from both the dryer and the wall, using a screwdriver if needed to loosen clamps.
- Use a dryer vent cleaning brush to loosen lint and debris inside the vent hose, vacuuming up the loosened lint. Repeat until the hose is clean.
- Insert the brush into the dryer duct in the wall and brush back and forth to dislodge lint buildup, then vacuum it out. Optionally, a leaf blower can be used to blow lint out.
- Check and clean the exterior vent cover outside, removing lint and debris; wash the cover if necessary and attach a vent guard to prevent critters.
- Clean the back panel of the dryer to remove lint buildup, then reconnect the vent hose securely.
- Plug the dryer back in, turn the gas valve on if applicable, and push the dryer back in place.
- Run a short air-dry cycle to ensure proper airflow and confirm the cleaning is effective.
Regular cleaning of the dryer vent reduces fire risk and improves dryer efficiency. It is often recommended to clean the dryer vent at least once a year or when drying performance decreases or signs like burning smells appear.
