6 Steps to Cleaning a Dryer Vent Duct
The convenience of having a home dryer can make life pretty simple especially if there is a lot of laundries that must be done in a large household. Because of this, you want to ensure at all times that your dryer is in tip-top shape or working at a high performance. To keep your dryer performing like new, follow this guide that has proven to be effective when cleaning a dryer vent duct.
How to Clean a Dryer Vent Duct
Step 1: You need first to know where to locate your duct and know when it begins and ends, most dryers will have a 4-short inch diameter exhaust at the back that connects to the ductwork through an aluminum elbow. Air that’s hot goes through these pipes and then exits out of your home through an open space on the wall that’s outside.
Step 2: Move with caution as you turn off the gas or propane valve or when unplugging your dryer from the outlet or the power source. To pull the dryer vent pipe free from the exhaust remove the clamps or metal tape. However in the event that you own a dryer that runs on natural gas be very careful not to damage the gas line because you don’t want any gas leakage when disconnecting the power. If you don’t feel safe when servicing a gas dryer call in a professional to do the service for you.
Step 3: Pull the vent pipe free from the wall duct, then remove the duct cover from the exit point outside so that you can have clear access to the entire duct. To effectively clean a dryer vent duct calls for special vent brushes. The dryer vent brush kit includes a lint brush and flexible segments you can connect together depending on the length of your dryer’s duct.
Step 4: Push or insert the vent brush into the ductwork followed by spinning it counter-clockwise, ensure while taking this action to push the brush as far as possible down the dryer duct. Other segments can be added to reach the other end of the duct. The brush should lose lint that has been lodged along the ductwork.
Step 5: With the help of a vacuum thoroughly clean all of the lint that comes out of the duct work, with the flexible hose attachment clearing out the opening. The openings should be cleared at both ends. The lint trap housing should be cleared also, ensure that there is no more lint by repeating the steps.
Step 6: The final step in servicing your dryer is to reassemble the dryer parts and then plugging the power cord back into the outlet. Now turn your dryer on for a test run to see how it’s running.
8 Signs that you need you Clean your Dryer’s Vent
- You may notice a burning smell
- Your cleaning vents have not been cleaned for more than a year
- Clothes are unusually hot to the touch
- The lid flip may not be opening
- A reason can be that the dryer is not working
- Clothes take longer to dry than normal
- When the dryer is running the room is warmer than normal
- After the drying cycle has completed the clothes have a musty smell
Bonus Tips Just for You
- Cleaning lint from a dryer can protect your home from a house fire, a dryer duct vent that’s allowed to build can become a fire hazard
- On a regular basis, it’s best to remove lint to avoid buildup
- Some types of flexible dryer hoses made of plastic, foil, or vinyl are more likely to become clogged causing a fire, remember to replace them with ductwork that meets your local building code
The final word on how to clean a dryer vent duct
Following these steps will ensure that your dryer is functioning properly, a good working dryer will save you so much time as you dry your clothes in one go. If you are having issues with your dryer then follow this guide. These steps will have your dryer working again just like new and will save you your hard-earned dollars as you DIY your clothes dryer.
About the author
Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.