Make it a ritual!

If cleaning your dryer vents isn’t part of your home maintenance plan, then you should. Each year there are more than 15,000 home fires caused by dryer fires with more than 300 injuries and 30 deaths. Not cleaning dryer vents also causes $90 million worth of damage in the United States alone. Based on these statistics, it is important for all homeowners to know the recommendations and procedures for cleaning dryer vents that will keep them safe and comfortable in their home for years to come. Take a look at these important questions about cleaning dryer vents and the facts to consider when deciding how to do it, when to do it, and who should do it.

What are the clues that you need to clean your dryer vent?

If your dryer is taking longer to dry a load than it used to, the vents may need cleaning. As a general rule, dryer vents should be cleaned every six months. A simple reminder is to start cleaning your dryer vents the same day you change your clocks for daylight savings time.

What is the purpose of cleaning dryer vents?

As clothes dry, they produce lint, and the lint filter doesn’t catch all the lint that goes through the dryer. By cleaning the dryer vents that are outside of the lint trap, you are removing this excess lint.

Where are the dryer vents?

When you clean your dryer vents, you should be sure to clean the vent located on the back of the dryer, as well as the plumbing route to the outside of your home.

Should I clean my vents on my own?

You can easily hire someone, or if you’re comfortable and willing to buy the right tools, you can easily clean your dryer vents yourself. You can find tools at hardware and home improvement stores, or online, made specifically for cleaning dryer vents. When cleaning dryer vents, you will need a circular or horizontal brush that is on the end of a plastic/metal pole or durable line. Ask a professional to help you find the best tool to fit the needs and shape of your dryer.

Take this simple step toward preventing fires in your home that will go a long way toward keeping your family safe.