Did you know that regularly cleaning your dryer vents will not only extend the life of your clothes dryer but can also protect your home from dryer fires? If you don’t know how to clean the dryer duct, you have come to the right place.
Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to safely clean your dryer vents. If you cannot safely or easily access your dryer ductwork, you might need to hire a professional residential dryer vent cleaning team.
How to Clean the Dryer Duct in Your Home
Step One:
The first step to cleaning the dryer duct system is to remove any lint from the lint trap attached to your dryer. Typically, this should be done at the end of each drying cycle. But it is also important to incorporate this step into a part of your residential dryer vent cleaning routine!
Simply lift the dryer trap out and use your hand to remove any lint. Then, remove any remaining lint from the trap using warm, soapy water and a clean-soft bristle brush. Allow it to dry completely, and then replace it.
Step Two:
The vent collects a great deal of lint and other dirt. Carefully use an appliance brush that is flexible in removing any remaining lint in the vent. Next, remove any remaining debris from the vent using a vacuum with a small brush attachment. Be sure to unplug the dryer first for your safety!
Step Three:
Taking care to be safe, unplug the dryer unit from the wall. Using caution, move the dryer safely out of the way and disconnect the dryer vent. Remove any dirt, lint, and debris trapped in the dryer vent using the flexible appliance brush. Next, do the vent trap outside your home.
Step Four:
Carefully move the dryer back into its proper position, attaching the vent and then plugging it in. Make sure it is off before you plug it back in. Finally, use a broom and dustpan to clean up any residual dirt around the area.
How to Know When to Clean Your Dryer Vent
The following are indications that it is time to clean your dryer duct.
- Your clothes are not fully dry after one complete cycle
If it takes more than one cycle to dry your clothes fully, your dryer is working twice as hard as the vents are most likely clogged. The same is true if your clothes are hot when you remove them from the dryer. If you notice either of those above, call for professional dryer vent cleaning as soon as possible.
- Higher utility bills
Is your energy bill suddenly higher than usual for no specific reason? It could be that your dryer is running overtime to dry your clothes due to clogged dryer ducts fully. Regular duct cleaning can reduce significantly lower these costs.
- Moldy, musty, or burning smells
Have you noticed a musty or moldy smell in your laundry room? It could mean that your dryer vents are backed up with excessive lint. If your clothes smell burnt, or you notice a burning smell coming from your dryer, you need to turn off the dryer immediately and have your vents cleaned to prevent a house fire.
Neglecting dryer vent cleaning cannot only place additional wear and tear on your dryer but is also a fire hazard. Did you know that dryer fires are one of the leading causes of house fires? You can prevent such a disaster by regularly cleaning your dryer ducts!
You can purchase a dryer vent cleaning kit from a local hardware store or online, like Amazon. These kits typically include a round brush specially made for dryer duct cleaning, a small attachment for your vacuum cleaner, and a cleaning brush. This will help make the process easier! If you need help or cannot access the dryer duct, it is best to hire a professional to do the job for you!
Dryer Vent Cleaning Today provides both residential and commercial dryer duct cleaning services. Call us today for a free estimate and to schedule an appointment with our friendly and professional cleaning team!