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How to Clean a Dryer Vent (and Why It's a Fire Risk)
Why it matters (it's a fire thing)
Lint is highly flammable, and a clogged vent traps heat — that combination causes thousands of dryer fires a year, nearly all preventable. Short of a fire, a clogged vent makes the dryer run hot, take two cycles to dry, and run up your power bill. This is a safety job dressed up as a chore.
Signs yours is clogged
Clothes still damp after a full cycle, the dryer or laundry room hot to the touch, a faint burning smell, longer and longer dry times, or little lint coming out at the outside vent flap. Any one of those means it’s time.
Clean both ends
Unplug the dryer, pull it out, disconnect the duct, and use a vent brush and vacuum on both the dryer port and the wall duct — then go outside and clear the exterior flap so it opens freely. Gas dryers: don’t disturb the gas line; that’s licensed-trade work.
When to call us
Long rigid duct runs, vents that exit through the roof, second-floor laundry, or a gas dryer are where DIY stalls — we bring the gear and do it safely. We clean dryer vents across Broward, and it’s smart to make it a yearly visit.
Frequently asked
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
At least once a year, sooner if clothes take longer to dry, the dryer runs hot, or you smell anything burning.
What are the signs of a clogged dryer vent?
Damp clothes after a full cycle, a hot dryer or laundry room, long dry times, a burning smell, and little airflow at the outdoor vent.
Can I clean it myself?
Often yes — unplug, disconnect the duct, and brush and vacuum both ends. Long runs, roof vents and gas dryers are best left to a pro.
Is a gas dryer different?
Yes — never disturb the gas line. We clean the vent and refer any gas-line work to a licensed trade.