Introduction

Here's how to clean a dryer vent in order to improve efficiency, decrease fire risks, and extend the lifespan of your dryer.

A dirty dryer vent can increase drying time, spike energy costs and eventually become a fire hazard. If your dryer doesn’t dry clothes, or the top of the dryer is hot to the touch after each use, clogged ductwork may be the culprit.

The removable dryer lint filter catches most of the lint as it passes through a load of laundry, but pieces of lint can sneak past the filter and get stuck in crevices along the dryer duct. When there’s a build-up of lint, airflow is restricted, which can lead to overheating. If the air inside the duct gets hot enough, it can ignite the lint and cause a dryer fire. So it’s essential to clean your dryer vent at least once a year, if not twice if frequently used.

Follow the steps ahead to thoroughly clean your dryer vent.