DIY Dryer Vent Cleaning: What You Can Do vs. What You Should Leave to Pros
A clogged dryer vent is more than just an inconvenience—it can be a fire hazard, reduce your dryer’s efficiency, and even increase your energy bills. While there are some tasks homeowners can handle themselves, other aspects of dryer vent maintenance are best left to professionals. In this post, we’ll break down what you can safely do on your own, what requires expert help, and why hiring a professional dryer vent cleaning company like Breathewell is a smart choice for long-term safety and performance.
Why Dryer Vent Cleaning Is Important
Over time, lint and debris from your dryer can accumulate in the venting system. This buildup restricts airflow, forcing your dryer to work harder and increasing the risk of overheating. According to the National Fire Protection Association, dryers are responsible for thousands of house fires each year—most of them caused by failure to clean the dryer vent.
Hiring reliable dryer vent cleaning services not only helps prevent these risks but also improves dryer efficiency and extends the lifespan of your appliance.
What You Can Do Yourself
Here are some simple maintenance steps that homeowners can handle between professional cleanings:
1. Clean the Lint Trap After Every Use
This is the most basic but essential task. Removing lint from the filter after each drying cycle ensures better airflow and reduces the chance of lint entering the vent system.
2. Vacuum Around the Lint Trap Opening
Use a narrow vacuum attachment to suck out any lint that may have gotten past the filter and settled around the opening. This should be done monthly.
3. Check the Outdoor Vent Cap
Periodically inspect the vent flap outside your home. Make sure it opens freely, isn’t blocked by lint or debris, and hasn’t been damaged by weather or pests.
4. Use a Dryer Vent Brush Kit
There are DIY kits available at hardware stores that include flexible rods and brushes. These can help remove some buildup from shorter vent lines—but caution is key. If the vent is long or has multiple bends, this DIY method may not be sufficient and can even push debris further in if done incorrectly.
Also Read: How Dryer Vent Cleaning Boosts Energy Efficiency
What You Should Leave to the Pros
While DIY steps are helpful, they’re no replacement for a thorough, professional cleaning—especially if you notice any of the following warning signs:
- Clothes take longer than usual to dry
- A burning smell when the dryer is running
- Excessive heat in your laundry room
- The vent hood flap doesn’t open properly
- It’s been over a year since your last professional cleaning
What a Professional Dryer Vent Cleaning Company Does
Professional dryer vent cleaning services go beyond what basic tools and home equipment can handle. Here’s what you can expect when you hire a certified team like Breathewell:
✔ Full System Inspection
Trained technicians check for damage, obstructions, improper venting materials, and signs of mold or pests.
✔ Advanced Equipment
High-powered vacuums and rotary brushes are used to clean the entire length of the vent—something DIY kits often can’t do effectively.
✔ Thorough Cleaning from End to End
Professionals clean the entire system from both the inside and outside of your home, ensuring no lint or debris is left behind.
✔ Damage Prevention
Experts know how to clean the system without damaging your vents or pushing blockages further in.
✔ Safety and Compliance
Many homes have vents that don’t meet modern building codes or use outdated materials. Professionals can identify these issues and suggest upgrades.
Why Choose BreatheWell for Your Dryer Vent Cleaning Needs?
At Breathewell, we specialize in high-quality, affordable dryer vent cleaning services for homes and businesses across the region. Our trained professionals bring years of experience, top-tier equipment, and a commitment to your safety and indoor air quality.
1. Friendly, professional service
2. Same-day and emergency appointments available
3. Fully insured and certified technicians
4. We clean hard-to-reach or complex vent systems
5. 100% satisfaction guarantee
Schedule your dryer vent cleaning today with Breathewell: https://breathewell.ca/services/dryer-vent-cleaning-service
Final Thoughts
While it’s great to take care of routine lint trap cleaning and visual inspections yourself, professional cleaning is critical to your dryer’s health and your home’s safety. Don’t take unnecessary risks by relying solely on DIY methods.
Partner with a trusted dryer vent cleaning company like BreatheWell to ensure your dryer operates safely and efficiently all year round.
Your safety starts with clean air—Breathewell can help you get there.
