Clean your dryer vent line
Clogged dryer vents cause most dryer fires. They also make your dryer work twice as hard for half the result.
What you'll learn
- Why a clogged vent is the #1 cause of the 'my dryer takes two cycles' complaint
- How to check the exterior vent hood (and what lint buildup there means)
- When you can DIY vs. when the wall run needs a pro with a rotary brush kit
- Why you should never use the plastic flex vent (UL 2158A steel-flex only)
Step by step
- Unplug the dryer and shut off the gas valve (if gas dryer).
- Pull the dryer out and disconnect the vent hose from the back.
- Use a long dryer-vent cleaning brush to sweep the hose, then the wall run.
- Vacuum loose lint at both ends.
- Reconnect, push the dryer back, run a quick test cycle.
Safety note
Wall runs over 20 feet with multiple elbows need a rotary brush on a drill — DIY usually means hiring or calling a pro. If lint comes out darkened or damp, schedule a full professional cleaning.
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