Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Shenandoah, IA

At a minimum, you should clean your dryer vent at least once a year. You may need to clean the dryer vent more often, such as every six months, if your dryer sees frequent or daily use. If you have young children or pets, you may need to clean the vent quarterly. 

There are a few signs that tell you it's time to clean your vent. If your clothes are very hot when they come out of the dryer or it's taking longer than usual for clothes to dry, the vents need cleaning.

A dryer vent inspection is simply the process of checking the vent for the possibility of damage or clogs. You can do it yourself or hire a pro. Pull the dryer away from the wall and inspect the portion of the vent that’s behind the appliance for lint buildup or kinks. Check the connection of the vent to the wall for loose parts or lint that’s escaping the vent. Check the exterior exhaust vent for signs of damage or lint blockage. A pro can check the length of the vent inside the wall for you. 

Dryer vents commonly need to be replaced every one to three years. This will depend on the rate at which you dry loads, how often you clean your vent, and what type of vent you have. For instance, regular care will prolong the life span of most options, while aluminum foil vents may need to be replaced more frequently with or without regular maintenance.

It’s possible to clean your dryer vent yourself in most cases, but it’s usually best to leave this important task to a professional. If you make a mistake when reinstalling the vent, you could kink it, which makes it easier for a blockage to form. Instead, call in a professional annually to do a thorough cleaning and an inspection. They will make sure there are no kinks in the vent that could promote blockages in addition to cleaning it. If your vent runs through a wall, you’ll need help from a professional regardless.