How do I know if my dryer exhaust duct needs to be cleaned?

Even though your dryer exhaust duct is cleaned on an annual basis, it can still accumulate enough lint to hinder the dryer's performance. Signs of lint buildup include one or more of the following:

• The dryer is getting hot, but the clothes are still damp after the drying cycle is finished
• There is wet lint sticking to the inside of the dryer after the cycle has completed
• The dryer is no longer getting hot
• The dryer’s display panel indicates a blockage or low airflow warning

For those just moving into the home, it is very likely the exhaust duct might need to be cleaned.

Do I really NEED to clean my dryer exhaust duct?

Even if you clean the lint trap each time you use the dryer, your dryer’s exhaust duct can still accumulate lint through regular use.

Failure to periodically clean the dryer exhaust duct can cause the dryer’s heating element to fail, forcing you to pay high dryer repair costs. It’s important to note the danger of a clogged exhaust duct. Lint is very flammable, and a clogged dryer exhaust duct causes heat to build up in the duct, providing the perfect kindling to start a house fire.

We recommend you clean your dryer’s exhaust duct once per year, depending on how frequently you use your dryer and whether or not you have pets.

NOTE: Pet’s fur increases the rate of lint accumulation.

Can I put a screen on the wall vent cap to keep birds and rodents out?

No, any type of screen (even chicken wire) on the exterior wall vent cap catches lint and creates a clog, which is counterproductive to the goal of properly venting the dryer exhaust. It also violates code regulations and introduces safety risks.

If you're concerned about animals living and nesting in your vent, the DryerWallVent is the ideal product for your home. The damper’s integrated magnets keep the damper closed when the dryer is not in use, keeping pests outside. The product is designed to keep the air flowing and minimize blockages.

This safer and attractive option is available in four powder-coated colors to complement the exterior of any home. The powder-coated finish resists corrosion, maintaining its shine.

Learn more at https://betterventing.com/blog/reasons-to-choose-the-dryerwallvent

How do I know if I have the right type of dryer exhaust duct?

• Dryer exhaust ducts must be a minimum of 4" in diameter. Clean, unobstructed, frictionless ducts encourage airflow efficiency, shorten the drying cycle, add longevity to the life of clothing and reduce utility bills!
• Flexible transition hose between the dryer and the wall outlet should be aluminum flexible duct. Do not use plastic or vinyl.
• Ensure there are no screws protruding into the exhaust duct as this could collect and trap lint.

DryerFlex is the code-compliant choice for safely venting dryer exhaust to the outside. DryerFlex retains a full 4" opening, whether compressed or stretched, maximizing airflow and eliminating lint buildup. DryerFlex combines the ease of use and flexibility of wire bound foil flex hose with semi-rigid aluminum flex, resulting in its fire-resistant properties - a requirement by building code.

Learn more at BetterVenting.com

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