9 Steps to Cleaning Your Dryer Vent
There are an estimated 2,900 clothes dryer fires in residential buildings each year, causing an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. The leading culprit? Neglecting to clean out your dryer vents.
Regular maintenance, ideally every six months, can help keep your dryer running efficiently and safely. Here are some steps to follow. Or, get your vents cleaned by your professional HVAC specialists for peace of mind.
Unplug the Dryer: Safety first! Ensure your dryer is turned off and unplugged from the electrical outlet. If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply.
Pull the Dryer Away from the Wall: Gently move the dryer away from the wall to access the vent. Be cautious of any gas lines if you have a gas dryer.
Disconnect the Vent Hose: Loosen the vent clamp using a screwdriver if necessary, and carefully detach the vent hose from the dryer.
Clean the Vent Hose: Use a vacuum cleaner or a dryer vent cleaning brush to remove lint and debris from the vent hose. You can also gently shake the hose or tap it to dislodge any stubborn lint.
Check the Vent Opening: Go outside to the vent opening where the air exits your home. Remove any visible lint or debris from the vent cover. Ensure it opens and closes freely to allow proper airflow.
Clean Inside the Dryer Vent: Use a dryer vent cleaning kit or a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to clean inside the dryer vent. Insert the brush or hose as far as possible to reach deep into the vent and remove lint buildup.
Reattach the Vent Hose: Once clean, securely reattach the vent hose to the dryer and tighten the clamp.
Push the Dryer Back: Carefully move the dryer back into place, ensuring the hose is not kinked or crushed.
Plug In and Test: Plug the dryer back into the outlet and, if applicable, turn on the gas supply. Run a short cycle to ensure everything is working correctly and the air is flowing freely.
Report from the U.S. Fire Administration
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