When your vents get clogged, your dryer can’t perform optimally. This can lead to dangerous conditions around flammable materials. Here’s what you can do to keep your dryer vent clean and avoid fire hazards while improving your dryer’s longevity.
Perform Inspections
Once a month, give your vents a once-over to ensure there’s nothing amiss. Performing routine checks is a smart way to prevent problems cropping up unexpectedly, as you’ll always be on top of your vent’s cleanliness.
Reduce Hazards
Fully clean your exhaust duct every other year for unrestricted airflow and clean your dryer’s lint trap after every load. Keep the floor around your dryer clean and free of dust and lint. Never dry wool sweaters in the dryer, and don’t use duct tape to connect your venting materials.
Learn How To Clean Your Vent
To ensure a safe and operational dryer, you’ll need to know how to clean out your vents. Before you start cleaning, unplug your dryer, and pull it about 12 inches from the wall to access the dryer vent. Disconnect the dryer duct and, with safety gloves on, remove lint from the hole behind the dryer. Using a vacuum will allow you to get inside this hole, which is key, to a complete clean.
After cleaning the dryer, head outside and remove the exterior vent cover connected to your home. Vacuum this as well and consider acquiring a dryer vent kit with a vent brush to clean the interior properly. When finished, reinstall the ducts and plug your dryer back in.
Prevent Obstructions
Believe it or not, your dryer vent system is a favorite nesting home for small birds. The cozy warmth is very appealing, but nesting birds can lead to blocked vents which, in turn, can result in a serious fire hazard. Check for a nest if you hear chirping or squawking from within your ducts, and take measures to prevent more critters from making their way inside.
Now that you know what you can do to keep your dryer vent clean, maintain a safe environment for your tumbling clothes and clean that lint trap!