Dryer fires are a serious and frightening concern, and they usually start in the metal tubing that connects your dryer to the wall. That’s what you need to cleanf. It will also extend the life and efficiency of your dryer.
Cleaning a dryer vent entails more than just wiping the lint filter clean between loads. Your house might catch fire if you don’t do it.
Simply avoid the following dangerous mistakes while cleaning out your dryer vent:
Not Unplugging the Dryer
To prevent being electrocuted, one of the most basic dryer-vent cleaning techniques is to disconnect the machine’s power line from the wall socket. Turn off the gas supply for gas-powered appliances to avoid leakage.
Trying to Clean a Long Vent on Your Own
While most houses can get by with some simple tools and DIY skills, if your dryer’s duct is very long, it’s worth hiring a professional. The majority of people can complete the task for under $200.
Failure To Inspect The Duct For Damage
Take advantage of the opportunity to inspect the duct’s surface for cracks or breaks while you’re cleaning it. Repairing them will allow your dryer to function more efficiently.
Using Inappropriate Equipment
Dryer lint fibers can stick to duct walls, therefore it’s worth investing in quality equipment. The Lint Lizard, which costs around $30 and connects to the end of your vacuum, is excellent at vacuuming up dryer waste. The Everbilt Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit, which costs around $17, includes attachments for cleaning lengthy ducts.
Venting Through an Attic or Crawlspace
Keep in mind that the lint that collects in your dryer vent is flammable. To ensure dryer vent safety, the exhaust should only be vented outside. Keep your dryer vent clean and leave any substantial repair, such as rerouting the vent, to the professionals.
Excessive Duct Bending
When you handle ducts, they flex easily, which is something you should avoid. When reattaching the duct to the dryer, make sure there are no abrupt twists or curves in the tube, as these will create crevices for lint to collect and may cause the tube to break.
Using Duct Tape to Reattach the Duct
This is possibly the single thing duct tape can’t accomplish, despite its amusingly accurate name. The dryer’s heat might cause it to deteriorate. Aluminum tape is preferable since it can withstand the heat from the dryer.
Moisture Sensors Are Often Overlooked
While it has nothing to do with your actual vent, if your dryer contains a moisture sensor, keeping it clean will help in its performance. So do that while you’re working on the vent. The sensor is a tiny metal bar that is commonly found just beneath the dryer door. Lint, dryer-sheet chemicals and other debris may be removed using a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol, allowing the sensor to function properly.
Cleaning the Dryer Vent Too Infrequently
This is one task that you should not delay. You should clean your dryer vent at least once a year, or more frequently if your machine gets a lot of use. These ten stages will walk you through the process:
- Turn off the gas supply or unplug the dryer.
- Remove the dryer from the wall.
- Remove the duct, which is a long tube that carries the dryer exhaust outdoors.
- Remove the remaining lint from the duct with a vacuum cleaner and tools after shaking off loose lint.
- Remove lint from the outer vent using a vacuum.
- To get rid of clutter, clean the area surrounding the dryer.
- Check for cracks or tears in the dryer duct and repair it if necessary.
- Using screws, clips, or aluminum tape, carefully repair the dryer vent.
- Put the dryer back in its original position.
- Reconnect the power supply.
For dryer vent cleaning, contact HomeSmiles for your appointment.
