A clogged dryer vent can make your clothes dry slower, increase your energy bill and even cause a fire. Prevent these issues by cleaning your vent regularly. Here are 3 simple ways to do it yourself.
Vacuum Out the Lint
Use your vacuum’s hose attachment to suck lint out of the dryer vent from inside your home.
First, turn off the dryer and unplug it. Remove the vent tube from the back of the dryer.
Next, attach your vacuum hose to the vent opening on the dryer. Turn on the vacuum and slowly pull the hose through the vent tube, sucking up any accumulated lint.
Vacuuming is an easy first step, but won’t remove all lint buildup. You’ll still need to disconnect and clean the dryer vent tube.
Disconnect and Wipe Down the Vent Tube
For a more thorough clean, you’ll need to disconnect the vent tube from both the dryer and outside wall.
First, unscrew the clamp attaching the dryer vent tube to the back of the dryer. Then unscrew the clamp connecting the outside vent cap.
Next, pull the entire vent tube out of the wall. Wipe down the insides with a dryer vent brush or old toothbrush to remove any remaining lint.
Finally, reattach the vent tube to both the dryer and outside wall, securing it with the clamps.
Consequently, regularly vacuuming and wiping down your vent tube will keep most of the lint at bay. But for a deep clean, you’ll need to fully disassemble the vent system.
Disassemble and Clean the Whole Vent System
For a comprehensive cleaning, you’ll need to take apart the entire vent run.
Start by disconnecting the vent tube from the dryer and outside wall. Then detach any rigid vent pipes and elbows inside your walls.
Clean all parts with a vent brush, then wipe them out with a damp rag to remove any residue.
Finally, reassemble the whole vent run, securing all connections tightly.
In summary, vacuuming the lint from inside, wiping down the vent tube or fully disassembling and cleaning the entire vent system are 3 easy ways to clean your dryer vent and restore optimal airflow. Start with the least invasive method first, then progress to a full takedown of the vent run as needed for a deep clean. Keeping your dryer vent maintained will improve drying times, lower energy bills and reduce fire hazards.