How To Clean Your Dryer Vent
Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamp that attaches the vent hose to the dryer. Once the clamp is loose, detach the vent hose from the back of the dryer. If your vent hose is made of foil or plastic, consider replacing it with a rigid metal one, as they are less prone to lint buildup and are safer. Shake out any loose lint from the vent hose.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a long nozzle attachment to remove remaining lint. Make sure to get as far into the vent hose as possible. If your vent is more than 6 feet long, you may want to consider a professional service company to do the work for you.
Locate the vent opening on the exterior of your home. Remove the cover and clean out any lint or debris using a vacuum or a vent brush. Use the vacuum cleaner to clean the area behind the dryer where the vent hose was attached. Reattach the vent hose to the dryer, securing it with the clamp. Go outside and reattach the vent cover securely. Turn on your dryer and let it run for about 10 minutes. This helps to blow out any remaining lint that may be loose inside the vent.
Push the dryer back into place and plug it back in. If you turned off the gas supply, turn it back on. Also, make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Periodically, check the vent and hose for any signs of lint accumulation and clean as needed.
Remember to wear safety glasses and a dust mask, especially if you have a significant amount of lint buildup. Additionally, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any of these steps, consider hiring a professional dryer vent cleaning service to ensure proper maintenance and safety.