How to Clean a Dryer Vent
Remove lint buildup from your dryer vent to prevent fires and improve efficiency
What You'll Need
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Tools
Dryer vent cleaning kit
Includes flexible brush and rods
Vacuum with hose attachment
Screwdriver
For vent clamps
Flashlight
Materials
Dryer vent cleaning brush kit
$15-$30
Step-by-Step Instructions
Disconnect the dryer
5-10 minutes
Pull the dryer away from the wall. Unplug the power cord. For gas dryers, turn off the gas valve. Disconnect the flexible duct from the back of the dryer (usually held by a clamp or tape).
Warning
For gas dryers, be careful not to kink or damage the gas line. If you smell gas, stop and call a professional.
Clean the dryer's exhaust port
5 minutes
Vacuum out the exhaust port on the back of the dryer. Use the flexible brush to clean inside the dryer's internal ductwork as far as you can reach.
Pro Tip
This is a good time to clean behind the dryer where lint accumulates.
Clean the flexible duct
10 minutes
If the flexible duct between the dryer and wall is foil or plastic, consider replacing it with rigid or semi-rigid metal ducting (much safer). Clean the inside with the brush and vacuum.
Pro Tip
Crushed or kinked flexible ducts are a fire hazard and reduce efficiency.
Clean the wall duct
15-25 minutes
Disconnect the duct from the wall opening if possible. Insert the cleaning brush attached to flexible rods into the wall duct. Rotate while pushing through to the exterior vent. Pull back to remove lint.
Pro Tip
You may need to add extension rods for long runs. Work from both ends if possible.
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Track This Project FreeClean the exterior vent
5-10 minutes
Go outside and locate the dryer vent exit. Remove the vent cover if possible. Clean out lint from the damper flap and surrounding area. Check that the damper opens freely.
Pro Tip
If the damper doesn't open freely, it may be blocked with lint or stuck from debris.
Reassemble everything
5-10 minutes
Reconnect the duct to the wall and dryer. Use proper metal clamps (not screws which can catch lint). Push the dryer back into place. Plug it in and turn on gas if applicable.
Pro Tip
Leave a few inches between the dryer and wall - don't crush the duct.
Test the dryer
5 minutes
Run the dryer on air-only (no heat) for a few minutes. Go outside and verify air is flowing strongly from the exterior vent.
Pro Tip
You should feel strong airflow. Weak airflow means there's still a blockage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not disconnecting power before working
- Using foil flexible duct (replace with rigid metal)
- Crushing the duct when pushing dryer back
- Not checking the exterior vent
- Using screws to attach ducts (lint catches on screw tips)
Safety Warnings
- Dryer lint is extremely flammable - clean dryer vents are critical for fire prevention
- For gas dryers, be very careful with the gas line
- If clothes take more than one cycle to dry, clean the vent immediately
When to Call a Professional
If you have a very long vent run (over 25 feet), if the vent goes through the roof, or if you find a bird's nest or significant blockage you can't remove.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Project Overview
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Time
- 30-60 minutes
- Est. Cost
- $15–$40
- Tools
- 4 items
- Materials
- 1 items
- Steps
- 7
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