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How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Dryer Vent?
Average range: $100 - $220
Low
$90
Average Cost
$145
High
$550
(Professional cleaning of a dryer vent with a minor clog that is on the first floor and has one 90-degree turn)
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As you regularly use it, the dryer vent gathers all kinds of debris that accumulates over time as the clothing spins and dries in the machine. These things should be emptied after each load; otherwise, the debris builds up inside and clogs the dryer vent. However, a dryer vent can get clogged for a variety of reasons, not only improper cleaning. Bird nests, construction debris, dust, condensation, pieces of clothing, long ducts, or wrong placement of the dryer can also explain why your dryer is clogged. Whatever the case may be, it’s critical to have your dryer vent cleaned regularly to ensure it won’t cause any hazard in your home and functions properly.
The national average cost to clean a dryer vent is between $100 and $220, with most people paying around $145 to clean a moderately clogged dryer vent that is on the first floor of your home and has one 90-degree turn. At the low end of the spectrum, however, you can pay $90 to clean a duct of 15 feet or less. At the high end, you can pay up to $550 to inspect, remove a bird nest blockage, and clean a double 90-degree turn roof dryer vent.
Cost to Clean A Dryer Vent
| Dryer vent cleaning cost | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $145 |
| Average range | $100-$220 |
| Minimum cost | $90 |
| Maximum cost | $550 |
Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost by Project Range
Low
$90
Regular dryer vent cleaning of 15 ft. duct or less
Average Cost
$145
Professional cleaning of a dryer vent with a minor clog that is on the first floor and has one 90-degree turn
High
$550
Inspection, removal of a bird nest blockage, and cleaning of a double 90-degree turn roof dryer vent
Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost Per Foot
Having a dryer vent cleaned costs homeowners $90 to $160 per hour, with most contractors covering around 15 feet of duct in one hour, making the cost to clean a foot of dryer vent duct $6 to $11. The exact cost is determined by who does the job, the location of the vent, the size, number of 90-degree turns, and the extent of cleaning needed. The longer the vent, the longer it will take to clean the vent. So, the price increases accordingly.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost by Problem
Different problems have different solutions. When it comes to dryer vent cleaning, it will cost $100 to $500 to solve your dryer vent problem. Some issues are easy to tackle. Others take a lot more time, materials, and effort. The final cost varies depending on these few things. The most common problems homeowners face are bird nests in dryers, clogs, or finding wet lint in the dryer. The cost to get these things solved by a professional and the approach taken are explained in the table and sections below.
| Problem | Cost (Materials and Labor) |
|---|---|
| Clog | $100 - $200 |
| Wet Lint | $100 - $300 |
| Bird Nest | $150 - $500 |
Clogged Dryer Vent
Cleaning a clogged dryer vent costs homeowners $100 to $200. It’s important to clean your dryer vent as soon as you notice it’s clogged to avoid higher electricity bills and prevent it from fully clogging. Excess lint buildup, dirt, and debris are the main reasons for a full dryer vent clog. However, it can happen because of an obstruction such as dryer sheets, a bird nest, or rat dwellings. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to remove the reason for the clogging before it causes bigger issues.
Dryer Vent Wet Lint
Expect the dryer duct cleaning cost to be $100 to $300 if you notice wet lint. Wet lint is usually the result of poor improper ventilation that causes the dryer to condense and create moisture. The condensation, moisture, and lint collect in the dryer’s exhaust system and leak back into the dryer after it turns off and wet the lint. To avoid this, make sure to inspect and clean your exhaust pipes at least once a year to ensure they function properly.
Bird In Dryer Vent Removal
Professionals typically charge $150 to $500 to remove a bird nest from a dryer vent, a common problem for homeowners. Birds, squirrels, and other rodents often try to build nests in dryer vents as they provide ideal protection and warmth. However, the nesting material blocks debris from clothes from freely exiting, creating a blockage in the vents.
If you notice any movement in the nests, you need to contact wildlife removal specialists to get rid of any birds, eggs, or animals living in the nest. Once they’ve removed the animals, a professional enters the stage to clean the vents from the remaining nest material and other debris. To prevent other infestations and clogs of this type, seal the vent’s exit with covers and ventilation screens.
Average Cost of Dryer Vent Cleaning
Labor for cleaning out the dryer vent pipe costs $120. This amount is around 83% of the total price for dryer vent cleaning, $145. The remaining $25 is the cost of materials. The most important factor in the cost is who does the cleaning, whether it’s a professional company, an individual contractor. Typically, this is a one-person project that takes less than an hour. Sometimes an additional helper may come for complex jobs like upper floor, roof, or longer vents that take two to three hours to clean.
The cleaning process starts with the professional unplugging the dryer and turning the supply valve off. After cleaning the lint by hand, the contractor uses either a vacuum or a brush to clean the vent. When using a vacuum, they use the hose attachment and insert it in the vent to vacuum the lint and clean the duct as much as possible. When the vacuum is too short to clean the duct, the contractor feeds the brush into the duct and moves it back and forth while rotating it. If needed, they extend the brush. Once the vents are clean, the contractor reconnects the dryer, pushes it back in place, and does a small 15- to 20-minute test to ensure it is functioning properly.
Companies and individual contractors that provide washer and dryer cleaning services charge a different flat rate based on several factors. For instance, cleaning the second floor or roof vents costs more to clean than the basement and first-floor vents. Logically, the longer the vent duct, the more time it takes to clean it, so the cost increases. If there is more than one 90-degree turn, the cost will increase accordingly because the plumber works more to clean these areas.
The type of wire coil ducts affects the cost of cleaning. Foil and plastic are harder to clean, so the contractor charges more to clean them. Sometimes, a bird nest or rodent or insect infestation causes the price to double, depending on the severity of the infestation. Finally, the cost can change depending on where you live. Dryer cleaning costs in metropolitan areas, especially those around the Northeast and Northwest, are higher than the cost in smaller towns or rural areas in the Midwest and South.
Roof Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost
The cost to clean out the dryer vent on the roof is $30 to $40 more than cleaning a regular dryer vent due to their inconvenient location. Roof vents are more likely to accumulate debris and are more exposed to the elements. They can clog more than regular vents. The higher price of the roof dryer vent is because it takes longer to reach and clean these areas on the outside instead of indoor vents that are easier to reach and clean.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Service Cost by Company
Several companies offer dryer vent cleaning services for a cost of $100 to $350. Every company offers a different service package that may include one-time cleaning, cleaning a dryer vent with another machine, inspection, and yearly services. A few of the most popular companies that provide these types of cleaning services in the U.S. are Sears, Dryer Vent Wizard, and Coit. The cleaning service package you can expect from each of them and how much they charge for them are explained below.
| Company | Cost (Materials and Labor) |
|---|---|
| Sears | $100 - $250 |
| Dryer Vent Wizard | $120 - $220 |
| Coit | $150 - $350 |
Sears Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost
Sears Dryer Vent cleaning services cost $100 to $250. Sears is a company that offers a variety of home services, including repairs, home improvement, cleaning & maintenance, and home warranty. You pay an annual fee of $150 to have a Sears expert clean and maintain your washer and dryer, ensuring they will work properly. They are the authorized Kenmore service provider. Some other dryer brands they service are Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Electrolux, Frigidaire, GE, Maytag, and Amana.
Dryer Vent Wizard Cost
Dryer vent cleaning services provided by Dryer Vent Wizard typically cost between $120 and $220. However, the cost varies depending on the issue at hand. The main service they provide is dryer vent cleaning, but they can also provide services like inspections, installations, and repairs of dryers. When you experience a problem with your dryer vent, a Dryer Vent Wizard technician comes and performs a full diagnostic inspection. Then, based on the identified problem, they provide you with an estimate and recommended solutions.
Coit Dryer Vent Cleaning Prices
The cost to clean dryer vent ducts through Coit Cleaning & Restoration is between $150 and $350. They are a cleaning services provider with more than 70 years of experience in the industry. Coit uses a HEPA-Aire™ vacuum and Aire-Sweep™ compressor system to clean the lint and debris from dryer vents, ensuring that the air quality stays at a high level. One of the biggest advantages they offer is their 100%-satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with the results of your residential cleaning services, they reclean it or refund the cost you’ve paid.
Clogged Dryer Vent Symptoms
Keep an eye for signs that the dryer vent needs cleaning to ensure your home is safe from fire hazards. Some common indicators that it’s time to clean it include feeling that the laundry room is warmer than usual or the clothes come out either much warmer and drier than normal or damp after a normal cycle. Other issues caused by a clogged dryer vent include the lint filter filling up quickly, your electricity bills spiking without reason, or the most noticeable, a musty or unpleasant smell from recently dried clothes.
Why Should I Clean My Dryer Vent?
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires. Moreover, 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated five deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss. This shows the importance of proper maintenance and regular cleaning of the dryer for your home and family’s safety.
To avoid the risk of a clogged dryer vent fire hazard from happening, the USFA recommends cleaning the lint filter before and after each load of laundry, especially the back side where lint is most likely to build up. Additionally, clean the lint filter with a nylon brush at least twice a year to prevent it from clogging. To ensure you get all the dryer vent cleaning benefits, you should also make sure to clean the vent pipe from lint every three months. Most importantly, have your dryer inspected by a professional at least once every 12 months, especially if you notice that the clothes take longer to dry than usual.
Dryer Vent Maintenance
To ensure proper maintenance of your dryer, check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure it’s not restricted or damaged and that the outdoor vent covering opens up properly when the dryer is on. To protect the dryer from the outside, make sure to keep the area around the dryer free of flammable materials and put a covering on outside wall dampers to keep out snow, dirt, and rain.
Aside from ensuring that small animals, birds, or insects don’t build nests and block the outside vent, you should call a professional to inspect the dryer at least once a year. Inspection is highly recommended if you’re using a gas-powered dryer, but it should be done only by a licensed professional. Some companies offer annual dryer vent maintenance, which typically includes drum seal and support checks, an inspection of the electrical system, intake and exhaust inspections, temperature and moisture sensor cleaning and inspection, leveling, and cleaning the dryer and vents.
When you’re actively using the dryer, give it some time to rest between each load. In most cases, 15 to 20 minutes is enough for the dryer to cool off and be ready for the next round. To make cleaning easier, replace a coiled wire (accordion style) with a solid, non-ribbed metal duct. It’s also a good idea to use a liquid fabric softener to reduce the amount of dirt and debris accumulated with each cycle. It softens the clothes and makes them easier to dry, which minimizes the time needed to dry them.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Dryer Vent Repair Cost
The cost to repair a dryer vent depends on the issue at hand, but you can expect to pay $75 to $150 to get a broken dryer vent repaired. As with the installation, it’s always advisable to hire an HVAC professional to do the repair. Aside from taking care of the repair, the professional may detect other problems with the dryer installation or parts and suggest ways to fix them.
Dryer Vent Inspection Cost
Inspecting a dryer vent can cost anywhere between $50 and $100, depending on the length and location of your vent. The inspector will check the dryer and its installation to ensure it’s safe to operate. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that the dryer vents should be inspected at least once a year. However, if you use your dryer regularly, it’s a good idea to schedule an inspection twice a year.
Disinfectant Fogging Prices
Using disinfectant fog in a dryer costs homeowners between $50 and $100. A disinfectant fog is pumped into the dryer’s air system to eliminate bad odor and microbiological contaminants present inside the ductwork or other parts of the system. Fogging is a practice used in many industries to clean tight or hard-to-reach areas. It’s recommended to use fogging as an additional measure after cleaning as it’s not a replacement for the dryer vent cleaning.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- DIY. You can buy a dryer vent cleaning kit for around $20 to $70 and clean the vent on your own. Most kits are made for manual cleaning. Some models are attached to a drill and should be used for cleaning only solid vent ducts. If your vents are installed on a roof, have multiple 90-degree turns, or complex installation, make sure you hire a professional to do the cleaning.
- Frequency. The dryer vent lint filter should be cleaned before and after every load and twice a year with a nylon brush. The vent pipe should be cleaned once every three months. The dryer should be inspected at least once a year.
- Package Deals. Every company offers different packages. Some offer discounts when cleaning two products or combining two services. Make sure to ask about what is offered in the package before agreeing on a price with a specific contractor.
- Home Location. If you’re hiring a company that is located further away from where you live, expect to pay extra for the contractor’s mileage.
- Dryer Vent Location. Cleaning costs vary depending on the location of the dryer vent. Easily accessible vents on the ground or first level cost less to clean. Roof vents cost more. Similarly, dryers located far from an exterior wall should be cleaned twice a year since they have longer ducts that tend to clog more.
- Get 3 Estimates. Always get at least three estimates before settling for a specific provider. This gives you an idea of what is offered on the market. Different companies have different packages at varying costs. You may be able to find a discount or a lesser price for the cleaning when you have multiple quotes and providers.
- Certification. Make sure the cleaners are certified by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) or Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).
- Photo results. Some cleaners provide you with photos of the before and after look of the dryer to see the cleaning results.
- Things to avoid. To ensure the vent is functioning properly, don’t use a clothes dryer without a lint filter or overload it. Don’t use a cloth or wire screen to cover the wall damper. Don’t dry anything that contains foam, rubber, or plastic, items with a “dry away from heat” label, glass fiber materials, flammable materials, or items that have been in contact with anything flammable.
FAQs
- Is dryer vent cleaning worth it?
Dryer cleaning is not only worth it, but it’s strongly advisable that you do it regularly to ensure the safety of you and everyone else in the house. A clogged vent can cause many issues, with some of the more severe ones being fire and structural damage.
- How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
The USFA recommends cleaning your dryer vent at least once every 12 months.
- Can I clean my dryer vent yourself?
DIY cleaning is possible with cleaning kits you can buy at different suppliers for $20 to $70. However, if your dryer is gas-supplied, a licensed professional has to be hired for the cleaning. They have the knowledge needed to clean the vents and place the dryer in a position that ensures its unobstructed operation. A license is mandatory in some states for any gas appliance installation and repair, so make sure to check your local regulations beforehand.
- How do I know if my dryer vent needs cleaning?
When you notice the clothes take longer to dry, don’t dry well, or are too dry, the dryer vent may need cleaning. Some other signs that the dryer needs cleaning are when your electricity bills spike, the dryer or clothes produce a weird smell, or the laundry room is warmer than usual.
- What is included in dryer vent cleaning?
Different companies have varying services in their dryer vent cleaning package. Basic services include preparing the dryer for cleaning, cleaning it, and putting it back in function. The contractor may offer a package that includes cleaning other appliances, before-after photos, annual maintenance, and more.
- Can I hire someone to clean my dryer vent?
Yes, you can hire many individual contractors and companies that offer licensed dryer vent cleaning services.
How much does it cost to clean a dryer vent in my city?
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.
Was this guide helpful to you?
The information provided by our cost guides comes from a great variety of sources, including specialized publications and websites, cost studies, U.S. associations, reports from the U.S. government, contractors and subcontractors, material suppliers, material price services, and other vendor websites. For more information, read our Methodology and sources
