– Clothes take longer to dry, especially bulky items.– Notice a burning smell when the dryer is on.– Clothes are too hot to touch after drying.– Lint around the dryer hose or exterior vent.
Disconnect the Dryer
– Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas valve.– Pull the dryer away from the wall (about 18 inches).– Disconnect the dryer duct from the back.– Replace plastic or foil hoses with metal ones for safety.
– Remove the lint trap and clean it by hand.– Use a vacuum to remove stuck-on lint and debris.– Wash the lint trap with mild soap and warm water.– Vacuum the lint trap housing thoroughly.
Vacuum the Dryer Duct
Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove lint from the wall hole where the dryer vent hose connects.
Deep Clean the Vent with a Brush
– Insert a long-handled brush into the vent.– Move it back and forth, rotating it in a circular motion to loosen and remove debris.
Clean the Exterior Vent
– Locate the exterior vent outside your home.– Remove the cover and use a vacuum or vent kit to clean out lint and debris.– Replace and secure the vent cover.
Reconnect and Test the Dryer
– Reattach and secure the ductwork.– Push the dryer back into place, leaving some space for connections.– Plug in the dryer or turn on the gas valve.– Run the dryer for 20 minutes on an air dry or fluff setting.
Tips to Prevent Future Lint Build-up
– Clean the lint trap after every load.– Wash high-lint clothes inside-out.– Use gentle cycles for high-lint clothes.– Deep clean your washing machine regularly.