Dryer Vent Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions

Dryer vents should be cleaned at least once a year, but homes with large families or frequent laundry loads may need cleaning every six months to maintain proper airflow and prevent buildup.

Common signs include longer drying times, clothes that feel unusually hot after a cycle, a burning smell, excessive lint behind the dryer, or the outside vent flap not opening properly when the dryer runs.

Cleaning removes built-up lint and debris that can cause the dryer to work harder, increase energy use, shorten its lifespan, and pose a serious fire hazard if airflow becomes restricted.

While you can remove lint from the lint trap and the accessible vent hose, a professional cleaning reaches deep into the vent system, including bends and wall runs that typical DIY tools often miss.

Most professional dryer vent cleanings take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the vent’s length, layout, and how much buildup is present.