Tips for Cleaning Dryer and Chimney Vents

Regular vent maintenance and cleaning can prevent buildups, prevent fire, save electricity, and create a healthier home.

Dryer Vents

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends cleaning dryer vents every three months. If your dryer vent builds up too much lint and is blocked, it can create a fire hazard.

Unplug the dryer first. For gas-powered appliances, turn off the gas to prevent leaks. Locate the vent at the back of the dryer and the dryer exhaust vent at your home’s exterior. Disconnect the dryer duct from the back of the dryer. You may need to use a screwdriver to disconnect the vent clamp. Remove any visible lint from the duct by hand and vacuum inside the duct with a shop vac. Vacuum out as much of the duct as you can, inspect the ductwork for damage and then reattach. Go outside the house and remove the exterior vent cover. Clean out the dryer vent from the outside using the vacuum. When finished cleaning, reattach the vent cover. Push the dryer back into place and plug it in or turn the gas valve back on. Run the dryer for a few minutes on air dry to make sure all the connections are strong and to dislodge any remaining debris

Chimney Vents

Make sure your fireplace is ready for chilly winter nights with a good interior cleaning. Clean the bottom of the flu with a brush and remove ash with a shop vac or broom and dustpan. Lay a tarp over the hearth. Put on safety glasses and a dusk mask and shine a flashlight into the flue; use a poker to scratch the surface. If soot is matte black and the scratch is 1/8 in. or less, use a shop vac with hose extensions to vacuum out the chimney. (If the buildup is more profound or has a shiny, tar-like appearance, call a professional right away. You might have creosote buildup). Taping a brush to Push-pull rods can work to reach higher spaces. Finish by vacuuming out the firebox, and you should be good to go.

Note: Our article is intended for interior cleaning maintenance. Even if you clean your chimney regularly, you should still have it inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Recommended Supplies

Dropcloth and Poly sheeting, Dust mask, Flashlight, Long-handled brush, Safety glasses, Shop vacuum, Duct tape