A smooth running dryer vent prevents lint buildup and speeds up clothes drying. In most homes, the clothing dryer is a common appliance and is used on a regular basis.
The vent of the dryer gathers fluff, hair, and debris that accumulate when the clothing whirls around the machine. That’s why it should be emptied after each load. Unfortunately, not many people are in the habit of doing so, causing the debris to build up inside and clog the dryer vent.
Professional dryer vent cleaning costs from $90 to $450.
The cost may, however, increase if you require additional services, such as mold removal, or additional supplies are needed. The type of dryer vent you have and its current condition will also come into play.
Unfortunately, not everybody knows the importance of keeping dryer vents clean. Here are a few reasons why it should be done:
To prevent accidents and to ensure the safety of your family, it is imperative to have the dryer vent cleaned if any of the following signs shows:
The following table shows the common problems you might experience with your dryer vent and their solutions plus the cost of the treatments required.
Problem | Solution | Cost |
---|---|---|
Bird Nest Removal | Contact wildlife removal specialists as removing birds can be necessary. To prevent such incidents in the future, seal the exits of the vent with specially designed vent covers and ventilation screens. | $100-$300 |
Fully Clogged Vent | A fully clogged vent can be the result of excess buildup of lint, dirt and debris but can also be caused due to obstructions, such as dryer sheets, bird’s and rat dwelling. Contact a professional cleaning system. | $160-$200 |
Wet Lint | Call a professional to clean the dryer lint screen. You can also invest in a dryer cleaning brush kit to get the job done yourself. | $100-$300 |
Disconnected or Broken Ducts or Plastic Hose | Invest in new ductwork or plastic hose. | $25-$28 |
Condensation | Consider installing the vent through a window to promote maximum condensation. You may also invest in a vent flap. | $6.71 |
Rather than contacting a handyman, it is worth getting in touch with a Dryer Exhaust Technician. These professionals are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and can greatly reduce the risk of further clogs.
A professional dryer vent cleaning session may cost $90 to $160, depending on the condition of the dryer vent. Typically, hourly projects cost $60-$100.
The most common method of cleaning out a dryer vent is to use a wire brush made for this purpose attached to a drill. The rotating brush is inserted into the vent where it removes built up debris.
The US Fire Administration recommends that dryer vents to be cleaned at least once a year, or more frequently if needed.
In most dryers, the lint trap can be pulled from the dryer, and the lint cleaned from its surface by pulling it free by hand.
Use a dry cloth to wipe around the lint trap area, then use a vacuum hose attachment to suck out any lint from below the lint trap. Use a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the dryer drum. Remove the top of the dryer with a screwdriver, then vacuum out any lint from the top of the drum.
Use a dry cloth to wipe around the lint trap area, then use a vacuum hose attachment to suck out any lint from below the lint trap. Use a damp cloth to wipe the inside of the dryer drum. Remove the top of the dryer with a screwdriver, then vacuum out any lint from the top of the drum.
Bad odors can be eliminated with the use of a disinfectant fog, pumped through your dryer by a technician for around $50-$100. Some odors may be caused by trapped lint that remains damp. Cleaning out the lint with a rotating brush or a vacuum hose attachment may eliminate the odor.
Cost to clean a dryer vent varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.