Cleaning Out Your Dryer Vent
If you are a property owner and or tenant you must know the importance of cleaning out your dryer vent. Keeping the dryer vent clean will help reduce the risk of a potential fire.
Unplug the dryer
The first thing to do is remove the machine’s power cord from the wall outlet to avoid getting shocked. If it is gas-powered, turn off the gas supply to prevent leaks.
Use the right equipment
Use the right Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit to suck up tiny dryer lint fibers that can cling to the walls of the duct. The Everbilt Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit, for instance, comes with attachments for cleaning long ducts.
Hire a professional dryer cleaner
It is always advisable to hire a professional cleaner if you have a long duct. However, some basic equipment and DIY skills should work for most dryers.
Check the duct for damage
While you’re cleaning the duct, inspect the surface for cracks or damages. Patching them up will help your dryer run optimally.
Avoid bending the duct too much
When you reattach the duct to the dryer, make sure there are no sharp turns or bends in the tube. Bending the duct too much can create crevices for lint to accumulate and may lead to breaks.
Use aluminum tape to reattach the duct
A duct tape can corrode from the dryer’s heat – despite its confusingly spot-on name. It’s better to use aluminum tape as it is a good heat absorber.
Do not route the vent into an attic or crawlspace
There’s only one place the exhaust should be going to maintain dryer vent safety, and that’s outdoors.
Check the moisture sensors
If your dryer has a moisture sensor, keeping it clean will help it function efficiently. Use a cotton ball and alcohol to remove the lint and clean out