When was the last time you thought about your drier vent? Let’s take a moment to think about them as if they’re not cleaned, they could cause serious damage, including fires. This article will explore more behind dryer vents and why it’s important to clean them.

Please note that at Dale HSC, we don’t clean drier vents. The intent of this article is to ensure that you are aware of the issues around not cleaning them.

What is a Dryer Vent?

A dryer vent connects to a tube on the back of a dryer and emits vapor and lint outside. This vent is constructed out of a handful of materials, including vinyl and aluminum.

Problems a Clogged Dryer Vent Can Cause

A blocked dryer vent can cause a handful of dangerous problems. Because lint can get trapped inside it, a clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard. It can also encourage mold growth and cause your dryer to overwork which can break it.

How to Tell if Your Dryer Vent is Blocked

Below are a few ways you can tell if your dryer vent is blocked.

  • There are burning smells when it runs
  • Your clothes are taking a long time to dry
  • The dryer feels extremely hot when running
  • You find a large amount of lint collecting around the vent

How Often Should I Clean Out a Dryer Vent?

You should make sure to clean your dryer vent every six months.

How to Clean Your Dryer Vent

Cleaning a dryer vent is easier than one might think. To do so, you first want to drag the dryer away from the wall and unplug it. After doing so, remove the dryer duct from the back. You can do this by taking a screwdriver and loosening the clamp around it. Once the duct has been removed from the dryer, take a vacuum and use it to remove any debris inside.
The next step is to locate the exterior vent. This vent is usually located next to the dryer outside. You’ll want to remove the vent covering and vacuum it out. You could also use a vent brush to get deeper into it.

After ensuring the dryer vent is spotless, you can then put the exterior vent covering back on and reconnect the duct to your dryer.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can be sure that your dryer vent will stay clean. If you want to ensure that the ductwork surrounding your dryer vent is in good condition, consider using the services of Dale HSC. We can do inspections of the fabrications to make sure they’re functioning correctly.