Maintaining the dryer vent is an essential part of any laundry room, and it should be done regularly to ensure maximum efficiency and safety. Cleaning the dryer's ventilation grilles helps remove lint and other debris that can obstruct the dryer's performance. Depending on the size of the house and the use of the dryer, it should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. Window Ninjas, a home care service based in Richmond, Virginia, recommends cleaning the dryer vent every year, although they suggest cleaning it more frequently - approximately every 6 to 9 months - if you have a large family or several pets. Dryer vents accumulate highly flammable lint, and lack of lint cleaning is the leading cause of fire in dryers.
If you notice debris and lint accumulating, it's probably time to clean the dryer's ventilation grille. The organization points out that these fires occur mainly in the winter months, so it is especially important not to lose sight of cleaning the dryer during this time of year. A dryer with a partially clogged or fully obstructed vent has to work harder to remove moisture from clothes and generate heat to dry them. Reducing the amount of dust and lint in and around the dryer can reduce how often you need to clean the dryer vent. If the dryer vent is too long to remove debris with a vacuum, you can also use a dryer grille cleaning kit equipped with a special brush that allows for more thorough cleaning. There's usually no need to clean the dryer drum, unless you're drying a bunch of furry pet items or sandy play clothes.
A professional will clean every corner of the dryer's ventilation grille to remove all dust and dirt, even in hard-to-reach areas that you may not be able to see on your own. One of the most important elements for keeping laundry-related appliances clean is proper ventilation of the dryer. Regularly cleaning the dryer vent can prevent fires in the home, but it's smart to leave this job in the hands of a professional. Tim Smith from Chimney Sweeps of America is a recommended dryer rack cleaner by Angi, and he explains everything you need to know about properly cleaning this appliance, including maintaining filters, drums, and vents. Knowing how to clean a dryer vent can protect your home, save some money, and make your clothes look better. Make sure to inspect and clean your dryer vent at least once a year for maximum efficiency and safety.