Sometimes it seems like modern appliances are only built to last a few years before breaking down. We often hear appliance owners complain that their expensive washer or dryer broke down just months after the warranty expired.

But perhaps part of the reason for the short lifespan of household appliances is that we don’t maintain them the way we should. One case in point: when was the last time you had your dryer serviced?

If you’ve simply been wiping out the lint trap for years and considering that to be maintenance enough, unfortunately, not all lint and debris can be collected in one spot. It can also collect throughout the dryer hose and vent duct. Buildup can:

1. Make your dryer less energy efficient, increasing your energy bills,
2. Slow down the drying process, causing you to run multiple cycles to get things dry,
3. Reduce the lifespan of your dryer, and
4. Cause fires in your home because of the flammable nature of lint.

How Often Should I Have My Dryer Cleaned?

Depending on how many people there are in your family and how many loads of laundry you do per week, you’ll most likely want to have your dryer vents inspected and cleaned one to three times per year. With only light usage, you may only need to have it cleaned once a year, but with kids at home and several loads per week, two or three cleanings a year may be necessary to keep your home safe and your dryer energy efficient.

Some telltale signs that your dryer vents are in need of cleaning include running two or three cycles to dry one load, or the outside of the dryer feeling hotter than usual.

Can I Clean My Dryer Vents Safely Myself?

To clean your dryer vents and hose, you’ll need proper equipment and a bit of know-how. A vacuum is not enough to adequately clean the vent duct since it doesn’t agitate lint and debris on the walls enough to remove them.

First, disconnect the dryer. You’ll want to start by checking the external side of the vent for things like squirrels’ nests or any other obstructions. Once you’ve got the outside cleaned, take a look at the inside. You can use a flexible, extendable brush to trap the lint and sweep it out. Alternatively, you could use an air compressor to blow it out. If you choose to use a vacuum, be sure to use a long vacuum hose with a brush attachment. Be sure to remove the lint from the entire length of the vent.

Finally, pull the dryer away from the wall and clean thoroughly behind it. The dryer pulls in air from behind it, so lint or debris in back of it will be pulled up into the dryer and cause further buildup.

Can I Get a Professional to Do This Instead?

Thankfully, there are plenty of professionals trained in properly cleaning your dryer to help it run longer and more efficiently. Call Royal Carpet Cleaning today to give your dryer the royal treatment.