Dryer vents make convenient nesting sites for vermin like mice, rats, squirrels, birds and insects. Blockages from unwanted guests can reduce your dryer’s efficiency and spread allergens or damage.
Let’s review how to identify and remove vermin from your dryer vent tube.
Signs of Vermin Infestation
Indications that vermin have moved into your dryer vent include:
- Decrease in air flow coming from the dryer exhaust.
- Buildup of debris in the lint trap.
- Repeated drying issues like lingering dampness or increased drying times.
- Sounds of scratching or scurrying within the vent tube.
- Evidence of droppings or nesting material inside ducting.
- Vermin sightings near dryer vent openings.
Reduced vent performance is often the first symptom of an infestation.
Remove any Blockages
To remove nesting material or debris obstructing the vent tube:
- Disconnect power to the dryer.
- Remove the vent tube from the back of the dryer.
- Inspect the entire tube length for blockages.
- Clear any nests, animal remains or other debris using long tongs or a shovel.
- Vacuum loosened material from inside the tube.
Eliminating obstructions restores airflow and drying efficiency.
Seal Access Points
To prevent vermin from reentering the vent tube:
- Install metal chutes with fine mesh around outdoor vent openings.
- Apply copper mesh tape around indoor vent attachments to seal gaps.
- Caulk around inside wall vent penetrations.
- Replace damaged ducting to remove chewing holes.
Removing access and nesting sites helps keep vermin out of the vent permanently.
Use Traps or Deterrents
Other options for discouraging vermin include:
- Traps baited with peanut butter or seeds near vent openings.
- Liquid or gel pesticides specifically labeled for dryer vents.
- Castor oil or hot pepper wax on exterior vents as repellents.
- UV pest deterrent lights installed inside vent chutes.
Trapping a few invaders and deterring the rest helps convince vermin to find a new home.
In summary, signs of infestation like reduced airflow, debris buildup and blocked lint traps indicate vermin have taken up residence in your dryer vent. However, by removing blockages, sealing access points, setting traps and applying deterrents, you can clear out unwanted guests and prevent future invade