Get matched with top dryer vent cleaners in Bowdle, SD

You’ll find the backdraft damper near the top of the range hood (where it connects to the ductwork). However, some range hoods also have a second damper, which is located close to the roof or exterior wall where the ductwork ends. If you don’t see a damper in either of these places, you might not have one.

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. 

Using a leaf blower to clean your dryer vent is not recommended. While it might seem like a quick solution, it can push lint and debris further into the vent, creating a blockage, making the problem worse, and posing a fire hazard. The force from the blower could also damage the vent itself. For a safe and effective cleaning, it is better to use specialized tools, such as a dryer vent cleaning kit with a rotating brush head that scrubs the lint from the ductwork. Alternatively, hiring a professional will ensure the vent is cleaned thoroughly and safely.

The frequency of cleaning your dryer depends on how often you use it. For regular households, it is recommended to clean the lint trap after each load of laundry. Additionally, thorough cleaning of the dryer—lint trap, drum, and exterior—should be done every few months. It's important to pay attention to the vent system as well. Ideally, it should be cleaned at least once a year, or six months if your dryer takes care of huge loads often, or more frequently if you notice reduced drying efficiency.