One of the reasons for the house catching fire is the dirty dryer vent. Dryer vents filled with dust, lint, and dirt cannot work properly either. Though the dryer is not causing any damage to your house, it will still waste your energy, time and money.
To keep your dryer vent working for the long run and save your house from any kind of damage, you need to have your dryer cleaned by professionals once a week. Follow the below steps to clean the dryer.
Step 1: Disconnect Dryer
In the first step, unplug the electric dryer from the power source. If you are using a gas-powered dryer, simply turn off the gas valve, ensuring that you don’t disconnect the gas from the supply source. It will prevent the flowing of the gas to the dryer while you are working.
Note: if you feel uncomfortable working with your gas-powered dryer, calling a professional to maintain your machine will be a good option.
Step 2: Disconnect the Duct from the Dryer
Don’t forget to wear a dust mask and safety gloves while working on a dryer vent. For getting access to the dryer vent on the back of the machine, move the dryer away from the wall. Make sure to do this task carefully and gently. After that, you can now separate the duct from the machine. Examine the dryer, made of flexible plastic tube or semi-rigid metal, for any damage or break. Use metal repair tape or duct tape to repair the tears. If you notice that the duct is extremely damaged, replacing it would be best.
Step 3: Use Vacuum Hose and Brushes for Cleaning
Use vacuum hoses and brushes for cleaning out the lint from the dryer’s lint trap. Ensure that your vacuum is effective enough to clean the dryer properly.
Now use a flexible brush for cleaning trapped nooks and crannies of the lint that are unreachable.
Behind the dryer, use a vacuum cleaner to remove lint from the mechanical side of the exhaust duct. Then vacuum the duct to remove dirt, lint, and dust.
Pro-tip: It’s a good idea to buy a simple duct brush set with an extendable rod to help kick up clinging dust that doesn’t reach the duct.
Finally, with the machine pulled out, suck dust from the floor around the machine.
Step 4: Clean the Exterior of the Dryer Vent
In the fourth step, unscrew the cover and inspect the damaged signs. You will need to use a vacuum again to suck out any dust and debris. You can also use a vent brush to release the lint and, after that, remove it with the help of a vacuum.
Step 5: Reattach the Vent
Reattach the outer vent cover once you’re certain that you’ve thoroughly cleaned your dryer vent. After that, reattach the inner vent to the dryer, ensuring it’s tight. Replace your dryer in its original location and plug it into an electrical outlet or turn on the gas valve.
Clean out your dryer vent at least once a year or more frequently if accumulation is a problem.