A clogged dryer vent is one of the most common causes of house fires – and it is completely preventable.
- Disconnect the dryer from power and pull it away from the wall.
- Detach the flexible duct from the back of the dryer and from the wall vent.
- Use a dryer vent cleaning kit (a long flexible brush) to clean the duct from both ends.
- Vacuum any lint from inside the dryer opening and the wall opening.
- Reconnect the duct, making sure it is not kinked.
- Go outside and confirm the exterior vent flap opens freely when the dryer runs.
Do this annually. Signs it is needed now: clothes take two cycles to dry, dryer feels very hot.