An excessive build-up of dryer lint, dirt, and other debris in your dryer vent system is a potential fire hazard. Regular dryer vent cleaning can protect your home from such a tragedy. Do you know how to clean your vents and where to buy a dryer vent cleaning kit?
In the following article, we shall discuss where you can purchase a duct cleaning kit for your dryer vent. In addition, we will provide steps for vent cleaning and dryer safety.
Where to Buy Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Most big box stores and hardware often carry vent cleaning kits. As well, you can also purchase them online. The cleaning kit should contain a cleaning brush as well as a vacuum brush attachment and a round brush that is used specifically to clean clothes dryer vents.
Cleaning Your Dryer Vent
Now that you know where to buy a dryer vent cleaning kit, here is a guide explaining how to clean your dryer vent.
- Locate The Dryer Vent
Typically, the dryer vent is connected to the dryer with an exhaust pipe that leads to the ductwork that is contained inside the wall. The hot air escapes the dryer and your home through these vents. However, lint and other dirt can get trapped in the vents which is a fire hazard if not cleaned regularly.
Take a look inside the vent once you have located it to remove any noticeable dirt, debris, dead bugs, and the like. Carefully remove and wash the screens with a soft brush, allowing them to fully dry before replacing.
- Unplug The Clothes Dryer
Carefully, unplug the dryer from the wall and remove the clamps attaching the pipe to the exhaust. Be gentle when lifting the vent pipe so as not to damage it. Move the dryer away from the wall.
- Use a Vacuum And The Attachment to Remove The Dryer Lint
After you move the dryer, you should have a clear view of the dryer vent. Using the attachment provided in the dryer cleaning kit, vacuum any lint around the opening of the vent. Next, use the attachment to clean the inside of the dryer ductwork.
- Use The Brush To Clean The Inside Of The Dryer Vent
The dryer brush in the cleaning kit can be affixed to a power drill. Insert the brush into the duct to clean the inside of the dryer using caution as the dryer duct bends and turns in certain areas. Use the hose attachment to carefully maneuver these areas.
- Reattach The Dryer To The Exhaust Pipe
Before you reattach the dryer, vacuum or sweep up any lint or debris in the area. Move the dryer back into place, reattach the wall duct and plug in the dryer. Clean up any remaining debris.
Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent
- If your utility bills are suddenly higher than usual, it could be time to clean the dryer vents. When the vents are clogged the dryer has to work harder than usual to fully dry the clothes.
- Is the lint trap accumulating more lint than usual? This is an indicator that the dryer vents are backed up.
- Noticing a musty smell? Dirt, bug and rodent droppings, and mold can build up in the vent system, which can lead to an unpleasant smell. Mold is harmful to your health if not removed.
- Should you notice a burning smell emitting from your clothes dryer, this is a serious indication that your vents need to be cleaned? This is also a potential fire hazard, as clogged dryer vents are one of the number one causes of home fires.
- Are your clothes not drying in one cycle? If you have to run your clothes through multiple cycles, it means that there is a buildup of lint in the ductwork.
You should clean your dryer lint trap after each cycle to keep your dryer from overheating and to prevent excessive lint buildup.
Professional dryer cleaning is recommended annually to keep your dryer running efficiently, lower your energy costs and prevent dryer fires. Contact Comfort Clean for a free estimate for dryer vent cleaning, carpet cleaning, or air duct cleaning.
