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Keeping your Dryer SAFE and EFFICIENT


Is your dryer clean? Are the vent pipes in your home free from lint? Or are they lined with highly flammable lint bunnies?

 According to FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), it is reported that there are 2,900 residential fires each year caused by clothes dryers, causing 5 deaths, over 100 injuries, and tens of millions in property damage! What's more, it is estimated that 35% of these fires are caused because dryer and vent lines are not properly cleaned.
If any of the following conditions exist in your laundry area, keep reading and I will walk you step by step through the process of cleaning your dryer, so you can rest assured it is running safely and efficiently.
  • You haven't cleaned your dryer vent in the past 3 months
  • Your dryer is taking longer than usual to dry clothes
  • You notice buildup of lint around the lint filter
  • There is a buildup of lint outside your home where the vent exits
As an added benefit, keeping your dryer clean will help it to run efficiently, drying your clothes faster and using less energy.
Tools needed:

 Vacuum with a hose(shop vac works best)
Flat Screwdriver
Foil Duct Tape
Dryer Vent Cleaning Brush


Step 1: Remove the lint screen
First step is to remove the lint screen and clean it thoroughly with the vacuum. Next, with the screen removed, use the crevice tool of your vacuum and insert it where the lint screen sits, being sure to run the hose as far into the lint screen cavity as possible. Next use the flat attachment in the vent cleaning kit for the vacuum and insert it down the lint screen hole to remove any hidden lint. If it has been a while since the last cleaning, lint may become built up to the point the vacuum alone will not remove it. If this is the case, use the brush with the vent kit to loosen any lint and then use the vacuum to pick up the loose lint.


Step 2: Clean the inside of the dryer
Using your vacuum, be sure to clean out the inside of the dryer, paying special attention to any vent holes in the drum, as well as the edges around the drum.



Step 3: Disconnect the vent from the rear of the Dryer
Once the inside is clean, carefully pull they dryer out so you can access the back. CAUTION: As you pull your dryer out, be cautious not to  kink or pull on the flexible gas line or electric cord. Once you can access the rear of the Dryer, remove the clamp and or tape holding the vent in place. Once this is removed, you can insert the vacuum hose in the opening in the back of the dryer to remove any lint.


Step 4: Clean the vent pipe
Now that the dryer is separated from the vent, it is time to clean the pipe itself. Important Note: Make sure the run of your vent pipe is not longer than the length of your pipe cleaner. If it is not, you will have to separate the pipe midway so you can ensure the entire length of the pipe is scrubbed with the brush. Simply insert the round brush in the pipe, and run the brush the entire length of the pipe, back and forth, until no more lint falls out of the pipe. Use the vacuum to clean up the loose lint.  Once completed, tap repeatedly on the pipe wall to ensure any loose lint falls free.



Step 5: Clean the exterior exhaust damper
Where the vent exits the home is another spot that will need attention. Examine the exterior cover and use the brush and vacuum to ensure the entire vent opening is clear of lint, and that the flapper door can move freely. CAUTION: This can be a popular spot for spiders and bees to make nests. Use caution when sticking your fingers where you cannot see.





Step 6: Re-connect the vent pipe
Once everything is clean, use FOIL tape and clamps to re-connect the vent pipes. Do NOT use screws to attach these pipes! The screws create a point for lint to gather and build up. Additionally, it is a code violation in most jurisdictions.
Step 7: Return Dryer to it's home
Carefully push the dryer back into its proper position, being cautious not to kink or smash the vent pipe or the gas line, if it is a gas dryer.

 That's it! You now can have a bit more peace of mind knowing your vents are clean and your dryer will be running efficiently.

 As always, thank you for reading our blog, and please check out our other posts and our website at www.expert-home-inspections.com/resources for more tips and tricks on how to take care of your home.


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