The Best Way To Clean a Dryer Exhaust

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

It can be easy to overlook a clothes dryer exhaust until lint buildup or blockages pose a dryer fire risk. Homeowners should regularly clean the lint trap, vent tube and exterior vent. Here are the most effective cleaning methods to prevent a lint fire.

Clean the Lint Trap

The lint trap is the easiest dryer component to maintain on a daily basis. The following measures can reduce the amount of lint that ends up in the vent pipe:

• Clear the trap by hand after each load
• Remove impacted lint from the screen with a firm-bristled nylon brush
• Check for holes in the screen
  

A clean, intact lint trap can limit buildup in the dryer exhaust system. Regular maintenance may prolong the amount of time between vent pipe cleanings.

Use a Vent Pipe Cleaning Rod

A homeowner should clear out the dryer vent pipe a few times a year. Several vent cleaning rod variations may be useful:

• A manual vent cleaning rod
• A vent cleaning rod with a power drill attachment
• Extended cleaning rod brush heads
  

Insert the cleaning rod into the vent pipe to clear out lint. It may be necessary to remove and reinsert the rod several times. Clearing blockages will reduce the risk of a lint fire.

Clean the Exterior Vent

A long wire brush is useful for clearing lint out of the exterior vent. A professional dryer exhaust cleaning service can thoroughly clean the system every year or so to prevent buildup in places that may be difficult to reach with consumer-grade equipment.

These cleaning methods can reduce the risk of a lint fire at a residence in Tusculum, TN. If a homeowner does not have these tools on hand, he or she should hire a cleaning service. If a dryer fire damages building materials or contents, homeowners can rely on fire damage mitigation and restoration professionals.