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Home maintenance tasks can feel like a never-ending list.
A clean dryer vent can help prevent home hazards and contributes to a more efficient household.
How often should you clean dryer vents?
Credit:Bill Oxford / Getty Images
Experts say cleaning your dryer vent is an annualhome maintenancetask.
Cleaning the vent each year prevents problematic build-ups, and its something most homeowners can do themselves.
Cleaning your dryer vent every other year also keeps things running smoothly.
Or the inside of the dryer is full of wet lint.
Its important to remember that not all dryer vents are the same, Klosterman says.
If the dryer vent is particularly long with multiple turns it may be more challenging to clean.
But there are other signs you might look for should your dryer need attention sooner.
One example:longer dry times.
Thats your cue to something is going on and its time to address it, Collins says.
Longer dry times often indicate a clog in the vent.
But for the most part, Collins says this is the first sign.
Not sure how to check?
Sometimes the clothes will come out a little damp but in 10 more minutes theyre dry, Collins says.
But now youre adding on 20 more minutes before theyre dry.
Many homeowners opt for the energy efficient automated timers that sense when clothing is clean.
The automatic cycle can fool you, he says.
After you finish cleaning the dryer and surrounding areas, reconnect the vent duct to the dryer.
There are also kits you might buy online with long wands that screw together in pieces.
Worried about the cost?
Klosterman suggests reading the fine print.
Check warranty information related to the appliance to see whether it qualifies for service coverage, she says.
Home fires involving clothes dryers and washing machines: NFPA Research.
