Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Sperry, 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. 

Conducting quick dryer maintenance can extend its lifespan. Help your dryer stay in mint condition by cleaning the lint trap before and after every cycle. This keeps leftover lint from accumulating in your dryer vent, which is one of the leading causes of household fires, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

You can also wipe down the lint screen with dish soap every few months to keep it extra clean. A basic wipedown of the drum every few months and a deep clean of the exhaust vent once a year are beneficial, too. 

If you happen to disassemble your dryer vent and feel the inside of the duct immediately after drying a load of laundry, it will likely feel damp and warm. That’s normal, as the vent has just finished moving the humidity and moisture from your laundry to the exterior of your property. However, if your dryer vent has water droplets in it at any time, it’s a sign that there’s trouble with the machine’s ventilation. You should call in a professional right away to get the issue fixed.