What is Dryer Vent Cleaning? Is it absolutely necessary? How often should you clean your dryer vents?
Dryer vent cleaning is imperative as dirty dryer vents are one of the leading causes of house fires. As well, not cleaning your dryer vents can cause excessive wear and tear to your dyer which can shorten its lifespan.
What are dryer vent and air duct cleaning? The dryer is connected to a series of vents that over time will collect lint, dust, and other debris. In addition to causing fires, this can also increase your electric bill and lead to health issues due to air pollutants. Keep reading for tips on how to clean your dryer vent.
What is Dryer Vent Cleaning? Step-by-Step Guide
- Locate the duct system: In dryer units, there will be a 4-inch exhaust in the back. This is connected to the dedicated ductwork inside your wall through which the hot air travels and then exits your home.
- Disconnect the dryer: This must be done with extreme caution to prevent accidents, injuries, or fire. Unplug the dryer from the outlet in the wall. Then remove any clamps or metal tape that affixes the vent pipe to the exhaust. Carefully pull the dryer vent pipe out of the way of the wall duct.
*Electric Dryers: you should be able to easily move the dryer out of the way.
*Gas Dryers” Take extreme care not to disturb the gas line as this c would lead to a gas leak, which is a serious issue.
- Once you are easily able to access the opening of the dryer duct, you can use a specialized cleaning kit for dryer vents (around $20 at a DIY store). Attach the 6 two-foot-long flexible components to the lint brush to form a 12-foot rod.
- Carefully insert the end with the brush into the dryer vent duct. Spin the rod counterclockwise, pushing it as deep into the duct as you can.
- Be prepared for a fair amount of lint and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner and broom and dustpan to clean up the residue.
- Using care, reattach the unit to the exhaust and put everything back in its proper place.
- Test the dryer to make sure it is hooked up and working properly.
How to Tell When Your Dryer Vents Need to be Cleaned
Use these signs to determine when you need to clean your dryer vent:
- Your clothes are taking longer than usual to dry.
- Your vents have not been cleaned in over a year.
- Should you notice a burning odor when you operate your dryer? (In this event, turn off the dryer immediately, unplug it and call for service!)
- Your dryer is hot when you touch it and your clothes are exceedingly hot.
- There is a great deal of lint accumulation on the dryer hose or vent.
Should you need any assistance cleaning your dryer vents or do not feel comfortable doing so on your own, do not hesitate to contact Comfort Clean. We will send our expert team to professional clean both your dryer vents and your air duct vents.
