Laundry is an important daily chore that gets easier with a dryer, which not only helps in the quick drying of clothes but also kills bacteria and viruses from the washed cloth. However, just like other machines, dryers also require regular cleaning and upkeep because the continuous use of dryers over the period results in dust and lint accumulation in the dryer’s exhaust vent. The dirt in the vent reduces the performance of the dryer and can cause fire hazards, too. Clogged vents also affect the performance of the dryer. The primary concern is how to clean the dryer vent from the outside, as dryers are fixed outside the house. Let’s gather more information about cleaning the dryer vent.
Early Signs That Dryers Vent Require Cleaning
There are signs which indicate that it’s time to clean the dryer vent. Here are the signs:
-
Clothes take more drying time than the usual time.
-
Clothes come out warmer than normal at the end of the drying cycle.
-
When operating a dryer, the outside of the dryer feels hotter than normal.
-
There’s a burning smell during the drying cycle.
-
Noticeable lint buildup near the dryer’s lint trap.
-
The capacity of a lint trap to capture lint reduces.
-
Lint buildup on the clothes is visible after drying.
-
Reduced airflow from the dryer vent.
-
Higher moisture in the laundry room than in the normal.
-
More birds and pests around the exhaust vent, which indicates blockage in the vent.
Guide to Cleaning the Dryer Vent From Outside
Following a few steps to clean the vent from the outside can make the dryer clean and more effective. Here is the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Gather All the Required Materials
The primary step is to bring in all the materials needed, such as lubricant, a screwdriver, a bucket, dishwashing liquid, a wire vent brush with a long handle, and an old cloth or scrub brush.
Step 2: Locate the Vent
The second step is to locate the exhaust vent of the dryer outside the house. The best way to locate the vent is to run the dryer as it helps in identifying the exact location with the help of hot air blowing from the vent or the smell of the detergent.
Step 3: Unplug Dryer
Unplugging the dryer before cleaning the vent from outside is an important precautionary step as it rules out the accident and also ensures that no hot air from the exhaust vent blows into your face while cleaning the vent.
Step 4: Inspect the Vent Opening
Check the vent opening on the outside when the dryer is running to see if the slats are opening or not. If it’s opening, all is well and if the vent is not opening, open the vent manually after turning off the dryer.
Step 5: Inspect the Parts of the Vent
In this step, check the hinges for rust and lubricate them with oil if needed. Also, check the vent for any cracks or missing parts because missing parts may give easy access to insects in the ductwork and the laundry area.
Step 6: Unscrew the Vent Cover
To access the inside of the vent, unscrew the grille of the vent using a screwdriver.
Step 7: Clean the Vent
Vent cleaning is one of the most important parts of the entire process of cleaning a dryer vent from the outside. All you have to do is put the long-handled brush wire to remove accumulated lint and debris from the vent.
Step 8: Wash the Vent Cover and Put It Back on the Vent
The next step is to mix a few drops of dishwasher liquid into warm water and clean the dust and debris using an old cloth or a brush. Wipe the vent properly, let it dry, and then screw it back.
How Often the Dryer Vent Should Be Cleaned?
It’s advisable to clean the dryer vent quarterly for better airflow in the dryer, to speed up the drying time, and also to avoid moisture buildup.
Tips to Consider for Unobstructed Airflow in the Vent
Cleaning the dryer vent is undoubtedly essential to clear dust and debris accumulated in it; however, “prevention is always better than cure,” so regular maintenance helps in unobstructed airflow in the vent. Here are some tips:
-
Avoid planting large and dense shrubs near the outside dryer vent area.
-
Keep an eye on the debris buildup from leaves, mulch, pine, and straw for the smooth functioning of the vent.
-
During the snowfall, don’t let the snow pile up near the outside dryer vent because it melts due to hot air blowing from the vent but finally refreezes, adding problems later.
-
Clean the lint trap filter before every use to maintain the dryer’s performance.
-
Keep the area around the dryer clean by sweeping and dusting it regularly.
Safety Precautions to Consider
When cleaning the dryer vent, always wear protective gear like a mask and gloves, open doors and windows for proper ventilation, and unplug the dryer from the power plug to avoid any accidents. Hire a professional to do this work if you are not sure of doing it yourself.
