How to Clean an Elevated Dryer Vent – DIY Steps & When to Call a Pro

Having a properly functioning dryer vent is crucial to ensure your dryer operates safely. However, over time lint and other debris can accumulate inside the vent and ductwork, which can slow down drying times. This buildup poses a fire hazard, which is especially dangerous if you have an elevated vent that is difficult to access. Here’s how to clean it, and the best way to find dryer vent cleaning in Burnaby.

Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent

There are several clear signs that indicate it is time to clean your dryer vent. If you notice clothes are taking longer to dry even when you clean the lint filter, that likely means there is a blockage inside the vent trap. Clothes feeling hotter than normal at the end of a cycle is also indicative of improper airflow. Excess lint visible around the external vent is a red flag, as well as any musty odor coming from the vent itself. Paying attention to these warning signs and catching a clog early allows you to avoid decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and potential mold or fire hazards.

Steps for Cleaning a Dryer Vent

Get Supplies Together

The first step is to gather the appropriate supplies to allow you to safely access and clean inside your elevated dryer vent. Having the right equipment on hand includes an extended dryer vent brush kit, usually with adjustable poles that allow you to reach long distances. A wet/dry shop vacuum will also be indispensable to suck up loose lint. Make sure to have gloves to protect your hands, as well as a flashlight, dust masks, and possibly a sturdy stool or ladder.

Disconnect Duct

Before doing any cleaning, you need to disconnect the dryer from the vent ductwork so you have unrestricted access. Start by unplugging the dryer itself for safety. Pull the unit out from the wall so you can easily get behind it. Locate the flexible dryer vent duct and detach it from the wall outlet.

Vacuum the Dryer Vent Entrance

With the duct removed, you will have open access to the dryer vent entrance or opening. Thoroughly vacuum around this opening using the shop vac and a crevice tool attachment. Reach into the opening as far as you can to suck out lint near the entrance before poking the vent brush rods down the duct.

Clean Up Internal Messes and Blockages

Now comes the actual cleaning. Feed the vent brush rods into the entrance, slowly working them down the full length of the duct. Move the brush up and down, twisting the rods to manually dislodge built up lint inside the vent. Remove any lint or debris you loosen by slowly extracting the rods and vent brush. You may need to do multiple passes to extract all debris.

Inspect Any Exterior Vents

After thoroughly cleaning from the inside, inspect the visible outside vent hood outdoors. Use the vacuum to suck up any remaining lint around the exterior opening. Visually inspect for any gaps or tears in the external vent that could allow pests or moisture inside.

Contact MASDUCT – Michael A. Smith Duct Cleaning Ltd. for Dryer Vent Cleaning in Burnaby

While an annual internal cleaning helps keep your elevated dryer vent tidy in between, it is still a good idea to hire a professional cleaner every few years. A company like MASDUCT has commercial-grade vacuum equipment far more powerful for pulling out compacted lint you cannot reach on your own. Our technicians can also sanitize the system and make more comprehensive fixes. Contact MASDUCT to get a free quote if you suspect your dryer vent needs servicing with dryer vent cleaning in Burnaby.