Basic Dryer Maintenance: How to Clean Dryer Vent Systems

Ray Cogan
vacuuming dryer vent

Clothes dryers are responsible for nearly 15,000 house fires each year. And according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading cause of dryer fires is failure to clean lint from the system.

We all know the importance of cleaning your dryer’s lint trap to prevent dryer fires . But many homeowners neglect to look beyond the machine itself to inspect their home’s dryer vent.

What is a dryer vent?

When you dry a load of laundry, your wet clothes produce moist, warm air. It’s the job of your dryer vent to direct all that air outside of your home. The system itself is simple. But failing to keep your home’s vent clean and clear of obstructions can have major consequences.

Why clean your dryer vent?

Your dryer’s built-in lint trap is the first line of defense. But even if you clean the screen with every load, your dryer vent can still become filled with lint — reducing your dryer’s efficiency and creating a serious fire hazard.

Luckily, a little routine maintenance can help prevent your dryer from working too hard or making a mess in the first place. Here are a few reasons why dryer vent cleaning is important:

  • Save on utility bills. Dryers use more energy than nearly any other home appliance. Cleaning out your dryer vent increases its efficiency, which can save money on your gas or electric bills.
  • Protect your clothes. Clogged vents can cause inaccurate cycles and longer drying times, leading to damp or scorched clothes. Clean the vent to help your wardrobe dry properly.
  • Prevent dryer fires. Dryer fires peak in the winter months. Plan regular vent cleanings to help your dryer run safely throughout the entire year.
  • Extend service life. Dryers have an average life expectancy of 14 years. Extend its service life by checking the hoses and cleaning the lint trap, heating element and exhaust duct.

How do you know if your dryer vent is clogged?

Blocked vents are one of the main culprits of dryer fires, causing millions of dollars in property damage each year. Want to know what happens when your dryer vent is blocked? Look for these warning signs:

  • Your clothes dryer is warm to the touch.
  • Your clothes take a long time to dry.
  • Your laundry room is hot or humid when drying clothes.
  • You find lint in, behind or around your dryer.
  • Your dryer’s lint screen is filling up faster than normal.

How often should you clean your dryer vent?

According to the NFPA, you should clean your dryer vent at least once a year. But depending on your unique circumstances, it may need to be done as frequently as every few months.

Knowing how often to clean dryer vent systems depends on a number of factors: How many people live in your house; where your vent is located; how often you use your dryer; and whether or not you have pets. At a basic level, more hair and laundry means more lint to clean.  

Here are some other factors that can cause lint to build up quickly:

  • A broken vent cover : Exterior dryer vent covers are designed to prevent water, insects and other debris from getting into the vent. Without a cover, your vent can get blocked more easily by elements coming from outside your home.
  • Improper ductwork : Bad materials and long, complicated hoses give lint more places to accumulate. PVC pipe and accordion-style mylar foil tubing aren’t approved for dryer vent systems. Instead, use rigid metal ducts with a direct line to the exterior vent whenever possible. (Bonus fire safety tip: While you’re checking materials, make sure your dryer vent hose is made of metal or foil and not plastic. If a plastic hose on a gas dryer is damaged during cleaning, carbon monoxide can escape when the dryer is running.)
  • A pest in the ducts : That’s right. Pests can get into your dryer vent system — especially if your vent cover is broken. You may notice inefficiencies at first, but the smell will be a dead giveaway.

How much does it cost to clean a dryer vent?

Like most home maintenance, general upkeep is cheaper than paying for expensive repairs. To have a professional clean your dryer vent, you’ll likely spend somewhere between $80 and $200. But more complicated vent systems will take longer to clean (and cost more).

Can you clean your own dryer vent?

If you’re the DIY type, you can purchase a dryer cleaning kit from a home improvement store for anywhere from $20 to $50. The price will go up depending on the quality of the kit’s materials and the length of the cleaning rods. If you have the proper attachments, a household vacuum may work, too.

How to clean out dryer vent systems

With long hoses, exterior vents and more, the process of cleaning your dryer vent may sound overwhelming. But knowing how to clean a dryer vent yourself can help laundry day run smoothly for years to come.

Here’s how to clean your dryer vent safely and thoroughly:

  1. Unplug the dryer . Anytime you’re repairing an appliance, disconnect it from the power source. Unplug the machine or shut it off from the electrical panel before you start cleaning. 
  2. Pull the dryer away from the wall. Give yourself enough room to access the dryer vent. Move the dryer as far away as the hose will allow.  
  3. Detach the dryer vent hose . Remove any clamps or screws attaching the hose to the wall or dryer. This could be difficult depending on the length of the hose and where it leads.
  4. Clean the moisture sensors . Wipe down the sensors inside your dryer with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol. Do this each time you clean the dryer vent or when cycles become inefficient.
  5. Clean the hose . Use a vacuum to suction lint from both ends of the hose. Then, use the brush in your cleaning kit to clear out any trapped lint. Keep a wire hanger nearby to snake out debris if necessary. Just be careful to not damage the hose in the process.
  6. Reattach the hose. Put the hose back in its place and reattach any clamps or screws. Slide the dryer back against the wall.
  7. Clean the exterior vent . With the hose clear, head outside to your home’s exterior vent. Remove the vent cover and clean any excess lint until the vent pipe is free from obstruction.
  8. Run the dryer . You’ll need to know how to vent a dryer to finish the job. Reconnect the power and run the machine empty for 20 minutes on the air-dry setting. Check for air and lint blowing out of the exterior vent. Then, turn off the dryer and put the cover back on once the vent is clear.
  9. When in doubt, hire a pro . If at any point something doesn’t look right – or you just feel like you’re in over your head – call a professional. They may recommend a different system, find another problem or let you know it’s time to replace your dryer .

Look out for your home

Being a homeowner has many rewards, but it also involves its share of demands. Dryer vent cleaning is a perfect example of one of those thankless jobs you just need to do to maintain a household. With homeowners insurance from ERIE , you can trust that while you’re looking out for your home, we’re looking out for you. We’re available 24/7 to help answer questions, solve problems and provide remedies. To learn more, contact your local ERIE agent today.

dock in Annapolis MD
By Ray Cogan June 10, 2025
Whether you're grilling in the backyard in Annapolis or planning a mountain getaway from Frederick, our team is just a phone call or email away. Let’s have that conversation now, so your summer, and every season after, is secure. Contact us today for an appointment with our experienced insurance specialists. Serving Annapolis and Frederick, MD
employee taking inventory
By Ray Cogan May 26, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we offer personal, proactive service that keeps you focused on growth, not guesswork. Whether you're expanding, hiring, or just refreshing for the season, we’re here to ensure your business is covered from every angle. Call us today at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com to schedule your Spring Business Insurance Checkup. We serve the Annapolis and Frederick, MD area.
By Ray Cogan May 12, 2025
Spring brings longer days, blooming landscapes, and unpredictable weather for businesses in Annapolis and Frederick, Maryland. Storms in the Mid-Atlantic can bring heavy rain, flooding, hail, and strong winds, often leading to costly damages for business owners. That’s why now is the perfect time to evaluate your business insurance coverage and ensure you’re protected against the unique seasonal risks spring brings. *** Why Spring Storms Matter to Maryland Business Owners Maryland's spring weather is known for its volatility. Sudden thunderstorms, high winds, and localized flooding can affect both coastal towns like Annapolis and inland areas like Frederick. In 2022 alone, several businesses in Frederick County experienced power outages and property damage due to intense spring storms. Similarly, businesses near the Chesapeake Bay face storm surges and flash flooding, especially during early-season weather systems. For local businesses—from boutique shops in downtown Annapolis to industrial warehouses near Frederick’s tech corridor—spring weather disruptions can mean more than just cleanup. They can lead to business interruptions, loss of inventory, and expensive repairs. How Business Insurance Can Help Business insurance is a critical safeguard that provides financial protection when natural disasters strike. But not all policies are created equal. Understanding the specific coverages that protect against spring-related risks can make a big difference when it matters most. Here are the top types of business insurance you should review this season: 1. Commercial Property Insurance. This is the foundation of most business insurance policies. It covers your physical assets, such as your building, equipment, and inventory, if they’re damaged by covered perils like wind, hail, or lightning. If a windstorm damages the roof of your downtown Annapolis storefront or flooding ruins inventory stored in your Frederick warehouse, commercial property insurance helps cover repair and replacement costs. Be sure to check if your policy includes flood protection. You may need to purchase separate flood insurance, especially in flood-prone areas near the Chesapeake Bay. 2. Business Interruption Insurance. Also known as business income insurance, this coverage kicks in if your operations are forced to shut down due to storm-related damage. It covers lost income, payroll, rent, and other operating expenses during the downtime. Imagine a storm causes structural damage to your Frederick café, requiring you to close for two weeks. Business interruption insurance can help you stay afloat financially until you reopen. 3. Equipment Breakdown Insurance. Spring storms can lead to power surges and electrical issues, which can damage your essential equipment, like refrigerators, HVAC systems, or point-of-sale terminals. Equipment breakdown insurance helps cover the cost of repair or replacement, so your operations don't have to close temporarily. This is crucial for restaurants, retail shops, and healthcare facilities in Annapolis and Frederick that rely on specialized machinery. 4. Commercial Auto Insurance. If your business uses vehicles for deliveries, transportation, or service calls. Make sure your commercial auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage. This protects your vehicles from non-collision-related damages, including those caused by hail, fallen trees, or flooding. Local fleets operating between Annapolis and Frederick are especially vulnerable during spring travel, when roads may be slick or obstructed. 5. General Liability Insurance. Spring storms sometimes lead to unexpected hazards, like a slippery floor or fallen debris outside your storefront, that can cause injury to customers or passersby. General liability insurance covers medical costs, legal fees, and settlements if someone gets hurt on your property. This type of coverage is essential for public-facing businesses, such as those located along the bustling streets of Annapolis or in Frederick’s historic downtown district. Take These Steps Now to Stay Protected Review Your Policy with a Local Agent. Insurance needs vary depending on location, business type, and risk exposure. A local agent, like the experienced team at Lindquist Insurance, can assess your current coverage and suggest any needed updates tailored to the Annapolis and Frederick regions. 1. Document and Protect Your Assets. Take an inventory of your equipment, supplies, and property. Back up digital records and store documents off-site or in the cloud. This speeds up claims processing in the event of a loss. 2. Create a Spring Storm Preparedness Plan. Include emergency contact lists, backup power sources, evacuation procedures, and a communication plan for employees and customers. 3. Schedule an Annual Insurance Checkup. Use the changing season as a reminder to reassess your business insurance needs. Your business evolves—and so should your protection. At Lindquist Insurance , we’re proud to serve the business communities of Annapolis and Frederick, MD. Our goal is to help you weather any storm with confidence, knowing you’re covered where it counts. Whether you run a waterfront shop in Annapolis or a growing service business in Frederick, our team is ready to help you find the right business insurance solutions for the spring season and beyond. Contact our business insurance specialists today for a free business insurance review or call us at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com. *** For more information on Maryland weather, visit the Weather US website .
heavy traffic Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan April 28, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote. We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
young female driver
By Ray Cogan April 15, 2025
We offer car insurance in Frederick. We work with first-time drivers to find a policy that fits their needs and budget without sacrificing the coverage needed to drive confidently.
alarm clock and money - Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan March 25, 2025
Our insurance agent in Frederick can save you time and money. We can navigate the complexities of insurance, ensuring you get the best coverage at the most affordable rates.
cop pulls woman over
By Ray Cogan March 10, 2025
Can you get car insurance in Frederick and surrounding areas with a poor driving record? Learn what you need to know about getting insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
engagement ring in red box
By Ray Cogan February 26, 2025
Your insurance agent in Frederick plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your valuables and ensuring that your cherished possessions and loved ones are well-protected.
couple at Valentine's Day dinner
By Ray Cogan February 18, 2025
Our insurance agency located in Frederick can help couples safeguard their assets, protect their loved ones, and ensure financial stability. Contact Lindquist Insurance today!
More Posts