{"id":1725,"date":"2023-04-06T10:46:06","date_gmt":"2023-04-06T14:46:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.selecthomewarranty.com\/blog\/?p=1725"},"modified":"2026-03-23T02:08:05","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T06:08:05","slug":"how-to-clean-dryer-vent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.selecthomewarranty.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-dryer-vent\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Clean A Dryer Vent"},"content":{"rendered":"

Having your own washing machine and clothes dryer can\u2019t be beat. Of course, with convenience comes care and maintenance. Over time, lint, string, and other debris can build up and clog your dryer vent. Unless you keep up with it, this can lead to serious issues \u2013 even disaster.<\/p>\n

Fortunately, cleaning a dryer vent is a relatively easy task most homeowners can manage on their own. Read on to learn why it\u2019s important or jump straight to our six-step guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Why should you clean your clothes dryer vent?<\/h2>\n

The main reason to clean the ventilation duct for your clothes dryer is because it can prevent a fire<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

According to the U.S. Fire Administration<\/a>, 2,900 dryer-related fires are reported annually. Additionally, about one of every three clothing dryer fires are due to negligence or improper cleaning.<\/p>\n

With this in mind, it\u2019s essential<\/em> that you routinely clean your dryer\u2019s ventilation duct.<\/p>\n

How often should you clean your clothes dryer ventilation duct?<\/h3>\n

Ideally, the duct leading from your dryer to the outside of your home should be cleaned every three months<\/strong>, if not more. At minimum, you want to deep clean your dryer vent once a year, but more frequent cleanings are preferred.<\/p>\n

Make it a habit to check your dryer\u2019s lint filter<\/strong> before and after you use it. Routine cleaning of the lint filter can help keep your dryer vent from getting blocked.<\/p>\n

Check out our clothes dryer cleaning guide<\/a> for cleaning the machine itself.<\/p>\n

What are the signs you need to clean your dryer vent?<\/h3>\n

There are four main signs that your dryer vent is overdue for cleaning:<\/p>\n

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  1. Clothes take longer to dry than they normally do.<\/li>\n
  2. The dryer feels abnormally hot and may feel hot to the touch.<\/li>\n
  3. You notice a burning smell coming from the dryer.<\/li>\n
  4. Outside exhaust from the dryer vent feels weak or isn\u2019t coming through.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Of course, these issues aren\u2019t always caused by a clogged dryer vent. If you successfully clean the ductwork for your clothes dryer and still have these issues, you need to contact a professional for repair right away.<\/p>\n

    Professional dryer repairs can be expensive, particularly when mechanical failures occur. For example, homeowners in Dallas, where constant dryer use during humid summers accelerates wear, often find that having coverage through a reliable Dallas home warranty<\/a> makes these necessary repairs much more affordable.<\/p>\n

    Home warranty coverage through Select can also protect your clothes dryer. If you already have a plan and experience a mechanical issue, submit your claim<\/a> today.<\/p>\n

    Haven\u2019t secured your home with SHW yet? Just click the link below or call us at 800-670-8931<\/strong> to get a free quote today.<\/p>\n

    <\/a><\/p>\n

    What do you need to clean a dryer ventilation duct?<\/h3>\n

    When cleaning out your dryer\u2019s ventilation, you\u2019ll need just a few tools and supplies to get the job done.<\/p>\n