How often should dryer vents be cleaned in order to prevent a fire?

The old advice is true: You need to clean your lint trap after every dryer cycle in order to prevent house fires. 



But you should also perform a deeper cleaning of your dryer vent every 1 to 3 years. 


The exact frequency varies depending on several factors surrounding your dryer use, which we will get into. 


But here’s why you should clean your dryer vent: Failure to do so was the leading cause of clothes dryer fires in homes from 2018 to 2020, according to the National Fire Incident Reporting System. 


Why Do I Need To Deep Clean My Dryer Vent?

While cleaning out the lint trap after each dryer cycle is a good habit, more is needed to ensure the safety of your dryer system. 

The dryer vent consists of several components, including:

  • The lint trap

  • Exhaust hose

  • Exterior vent

  • The dryer cabinet

  • The dryer blower

  • The interior dryer cabinet duct

  • The dryer motor

Over time, lint, debris, and even small objects can accumulate within these components, obstructing airflow and creating a fire risk.

How Do I Know When It’s Time To Clean My Dryer Vent?

The frequency of a necessary dryer vent cleaning varies so much between households, because of all the different factors to consider, including:

  • How many loads of laundry you do per week

  • What brand of laundry detergent you use

  • Whether you have pets

  • The specifics of your dryer: How long and winding your system is; what your transition vent behind your dryer looks like, the type and location of your outside exhaust outlet. 

Warning: If you do a lot of laundry and have a longer vent system, you may need to clean your dryer vent every six to nine months instead of every year or few years.

Because there is so much variance between laundry systems, you should be aware of the signs that indicate it’s time to deep clean your dryer. They include:

  • If you notice your clothes taking longer to dry than usual. This could indicate a buildup of lint obstructing airflow

  • If your dryer feels excessively hot to the touch

  • If your dryer emits a burning odor during operation. The last two are signs that your vent may be clogged.

  • There’s debris surrounding the dryer hose.

  • The vent hood flap is not opening as it should.

  • If it’s been more than a year since your last professional dryer vent cleaning. It’s wise to schedule an inspection or cleaning at this time to make sure you’re not at risk of a fire.

How To Deep Clean Your Dryer Vent

While cleaning the lint trap is a routine task, deep cleaning your dryer vent requires a more thorough approach, ideally performed by a professional. Here's a general overview of the process:

  1. Disconnect the Dryer: Start by unplugging the dryer from the power source and, if possible, disconnect the exhaust hose from the back of the dryer.

  2. Remove the Lint Trap: Take out the lint trap and clean it thoroughly, removing any lint or debris trapped inside.

  3. Inspect the Vent System: Carefully inspect the exhaust hose and exterior vent for any signs of blockage or damage. Remove any visible lint or debris.

  4. Clean the Vent: Vent cleaning typically involves using flexible rods and brushes designed to reach deep into the vent system to dislodge stubborn buildup. 

  5. Vacuum the Area: Once the vent is clean, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining lint or debris from around the dryer and surrounding area.

  6. Reassemble and Test: Reattach the exhaust hose, ensuring a secure connection, and replace the lint trap. Plug in the dryer and run a test cycle to ensure proper airflow and drying efficiency.

Why Do Dryers Catch Fire?

Dryer fires pose a significant risk to homes and occupants. 

Lint, dust, and other debris can ignite when exposed to high temperatures, especially in the confined space of a dryer vent. A buildup of lent also makes your dryer hotter, increasing the likelihood of a blaze. 

Need Help Cleaning Out Your Dryer Vent?

For professional dryer vent cleaning services, trust Windell's Carpet Care. 


In addition to this Southern Indiana’s company’s expertise in carpet cleaning, they specialize in HVAC cleaning, including thorough dryer vent cleaning. 


Protect your home and family by scheduling a dryer vent cleaning appointment with Windell's today.
Location: 401 E Walnut St, Corydon, IN 47112, USA

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