How do you clean a dryer vent hose, and how frequently should you do it?
Clean your dryer vent thrice a year to make sure that it does not cause any fire hazard over time. Our experienced home appliance maintenance team can perform the job for you safely and quickly.
This post:
- Shows you how to clean a dryer vent or dryer vent hose.
- Explains the importance of cleaning your dryer vent.
- Gives estimates on cleaning service costs.
Do Dryer Vent Hoses Need to Be Cleaned Out?
The US Fire Administration reports that around 2900 homes catch fire because of unclean dryer vents. Failure to clean dryer vents causes lint to build up, thereby choking the ducts and preventing airflow. The failure to clean leads to dryer overheat and eventually to an outbreak of fire.
How Often Should A Dryer Vent Hose Be Cleaned?
Dryer fires are caused by the accumulation of lint and the dryer getting overheated as a result. The frequency of cleaning will depend on how often you use the machine and the kind of clothes it dries. Have the machine’s duct and vent inspected every so often.
If you inspect it two or three times a year, you will be surprised at how much lint has accumulated in the vent. Cleaning is very easy, requiring only to vacuum the hose as deep as the vent can possibly hide lint.
A good rule of thumb is once a year. However, you may need to increase the frequency if you have a big household that uses the dryer or use the dryer quite often.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Someone Clean Your Dryer Vent?
The latest estimates put the average cost at $133, with $100 as the lowest and $170 highest. Check out local specialists and compare prices for the best deal.
How to Clean a Dryer Vent Hose? (DIY Easy Steps)
The task requires using common cleaning tools and takes only a few steps:
Things You’ll Need:
- Cleaning brush kit
- Drill
- Metal foil duct tape
- Screwdrivers
- Vacuum with a long hose attachment
How To: (Step by Step Instructions)
- Unplug the power cord. Pull the machine a foot away from the wall and reach for the power cord.
- Remove the exterior vent cord found at the outside wall of your home.
- Insert the brush into the vent, pushing and pulling it to clean off the lint inside. Push all the way to the exterior vent. Clean the duct inside the dryer as well.
- Use the vacuum with its long hose attachment to remove the remaining lint.
- Reconnect the vent to the dryer, and place the machine back to its position. Make sure there are no damaged sections in the duct before reconnecting, and use tape to seal connection points.
Check this short video to help you figure out the entire task and how to do it correctly.
Tips on Cleaning a Dryer Vent Hose
- Cleaning your dryer vent regularly actually saves you money from lower power consumption.
- Your dryer has a lint trap. Clean this part of your dryer every drying cycle, so you can keep the machine free from fire hazards.
Let’s Get Back to Cleaning
Cleaning a dryer vent hose consists of only a few simple steps. Once the hose has been detached, it is easy for you to clean the accumulated lint inside it. Brush away the lint that has accumulated in the duct of the dryer as well. After cleaning, reassemble the hose system and screw back the hose to the machine.
For questions, just post them below. Do you have tips or techniques others may find useful? We sure would like to know.
FAQs: (Frequently Asked Questions)
How Do I Clean The Lint Out of My Dryer Hose?
Move the dryer away from the wall, disconnect the hose using a screwdriver, and use a vacuum hose to remove the debris.
How Do You Clean a Long Dryer Vent Hose?
For long dryer vent hoses, make sure that you can cover the entire length from end to end. Use a long brush and vacuum with a hose attachment on it.
Can I Clean Dryer Vent Myself?
Yes, you can, but there may be risks involved. Professional cleaners follow safety procedures and hiring one means getting things done fast and safely. Attempting to clean the vent on your own may make the lint blockages worse than before.