12 Dryer Vent Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Published 1/13/2025

Mr Duct Avoid Vacuuming Dryer Vent

Dryer vent cleaning is an important yet overlooked job for home maintenance. Over time, debris and lint can accumulate in the vent system, which causes blockages. If left unchecked, this buildup can cause longer drying times and even higher energy bills. There are also cases where clogged dryer vents create fires. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that clothes dryers are associated with around 15,600 fires annually.

This stresses the importance of understanding homeowners’ common mistakes with dryer vent cleaning. Learn how to avoid dangerous situations in this guide.

1. Disconnecting the Dryer

Before starting any dryer vent cleaning, make sure to unplug your dryer and turn off the gas supply. This basic safety step is crucial because the process may involve touching parts of the dryer connected to electricity, which may lead to shocks, or may expose your family to harmful and flammable gas.

2. Using the Wrong Tools

Homeowners often use makeshift tools like coat hangers or standard vacuum attachments when cleaning their dryer vents. Sometimes, these tools can damage the dryer vent system. Coat hangers may even push lint or debris further into the system. It’s recommended that you purchase a long-handled brush or special vacuum attachment explicitly designed for vent cleaning. These tools will allow you to remove lint effectively.

3. Attempting to Clean Long Vents Yourself

Some homeowners may be able to handle basic vent cleaning tasks for shorter dryer vent systems. But for long or complex ducts, it’s better to call a professional dryer vent cleaning service like Mr. Duct. Twisting pathways are prone to collecting lint and make it harder to reach. Without the proper tools, DIY dryer vent cleaning for larger systems can reduce airflow. Take a look at Mr. Duct’s gallery for actual photos of debris and lint buildup in vents and ducts.

4. Not Checking for Duct Damage

While cleaning the vent, take the opportunity to inspect the ductwork for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or wear. Even small cracks can lead to decreased efficiency and allow lint to escape, creating a potential fire hazard. Check the duct carefully and replace any damaged sections before reattaching everything. Repairing or replacing damaged ducts is a simple fix that can prevent other problems down the line.

5. Bending the Duct Too Much

Ducts are flexible, but excessive bending or kinking can cause problems. When reattaching the duct to the dryer or the wall, avoid sharp turns and bends. Twisting vents can cause areas where lint can accumulate and block airflow. This makes the dryer work harder and increases the risk of overheating. Keep the duct as straight as possible.

6. Using Duct Tape for Reattachment

While duct tape is popular for many household repairs, it is not suitable for securing dryer vent ducts. The heat generated by the dryer can break down the adhesive on the tape. Over time, it will deteriorate. Instead of duct tape, use aluminum tape or proper vent clamps to securely attach the duct. These materials are resistant to heat and will last much longer.

7. Routing the Vent Improperly

Your dryer vent should always lead directly outside. Avoid venting through attics, crawlspaces, or internal walls. These pathways can trap lint and moisture, creating fire hazards. Proper venting ensures that lint and hot air are safely expelled from your home. If you’re unsure about the routing of your dryer vent, it’s best to consult a dryer vent cleaning professional at Mr. Duct to ensure it is installed correctly and safely.

8. Overlooking Moisture Sensors

If your dryer has a moisture sensor, you must clean it while you’re cleaning the vent. The moisture sensor helps regulate drying cycles by detecting the moisture level in your clothes. Over time, lint, dryer sheet chemicals, and other debris can build up on the sensor, causing it to malfunction. Use a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol to clean the sensor and maintain your dryer’s performance.

9. Not Cleaning the Dryer Vent Frequently Enough

Many homeowners neglect to clean their dryer vent until it’s too late. So, how often should you clean your dryer vent? At a minimum, you should perform dryer vent cleaning once a year, but if you use your dryer often, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. Regular cleaning reduces the risk of buildup, which can cause blockages, overheating, and potential fire hazards. If you see that your dryer is taking longer to dry clothes, this may be a sign to schedule dryer vent cleaning.

10. Forgetting to Clean the Exterior Vent Cover

Do not ignore the role of the exterior vent cover in your dryer vent system. The cover prevents pests from entering and promotes proper airflow. Over time, the vent cover can accumulate debris, leaves, or even nests, which can obstruct airflow and cause overheating. Be sure to clean the exterior vent cover regularly to maintain optimal performance and safety.

11. Not Removing the Dryer from the wall

Many homeowners make the mistake of cleaning the vent without pulling the dryer away from the wall. This prevents them from accessing the entire length of the duct and checking for potential blockages or damage. By pulling the dryer out, you can clean the vent from the back of the dryer to the wall. Failing to do so could negatively impact dryer efficiency and safety.

12. Using Flexible Plastic Vent Hoses

Flexible plastic vent hoses are not ideal for dryer vent systems, even though they are commonly used. These types of ducts can easily trap lint, especially when the hose bends. Over time, this trapped lint can block airflow, causing overheating and risk of fire. Flexible plastic hoses are also more susceptible to damage from the dryer’s heat, leading to cracks or breaks. For safety and efficiency, always use rigid metal ducts, which provide better airflow, are more durable, and are less likely to trap lint.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Service in Chicagoland

If you’re looking for a safe and efficient alternative, contact Mr. Duct to schedule professional dryer vent cleaning services. Our certified technicians provide expert advice and thorough cleaning to lower your energy costs and reduce fire risks. We proudly serve the Chicago Suburbs, including Barrington, Glenview, Lake Forest, and more.

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