Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Wapello, IA

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. 

Professionals use specialized tools to clean dryer vents effectively. These tools typically include a combination of flexible rods and brushes designed to navigate the vent's twists and turns. The brushes dislodge and loosen lint and debris, while the rods help extend the reach through the vent. High-powered vacuums with HEPA filters are also used to capture and remove the dislodged lint and particles, ensuring a thorough cleaning. In some cases, professionals may employ video inspection cameras to assess the condition of the vent and confirm that it's entirely clean.

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. 

The length of an allowable dryer vent varies based on the local building codes and regulations. Typically, the maximum range is 25 to 35 feet. However, if the vent must have any 90-degree turns, you may see a reduction of five feet from the maximum. Some municipalities may have no specific maximum allowable length as part of the code. Typically, installers will run the vent over the shortest possible distance for safety. The dryer vent cleaning cost is less with a shorter vent length as well.