How to Clean Your Dryer Exhaust Vent (And Why It Matters)
A clogged dryer vent reduces efficiency, increases drying time, and creates a serious fire hazard. This guide walks you through a thorough vent cleaning.
The Danger of a Clogged Dryer Vent
Clogged dryer vents are one of the leading causes of house fires in the United States. A clogged vent causes the dryer to overheat, which can blow thermal fuses, damage heating elements, and in severe cases ignite accumulated lint.
LG's Flow Sense codes (d80, d90, d95) and other brand equivalents detect this condition and warn you before it becomes dangerous.
How Often to Clean
Step 1: Disconnect the Dryer
Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet. If it's a gas dryer, leave the gas line connected — just unplug the electrical cord.
Step 2: Pull the Dryer Away from the Wall
Carefully slide the dryer out. Disconnect the flexible duct from the back of the dryer.
Step 3: Clean the Flexible Duct
Use a dryer vent brush kit (long flexible rods with a brush head) to clean inside the flexible duct. Remove all lint.
Step 4: Clean the Wall Duct
Feed the brush into the wall duct. Work toward the exterior vent cap. Run from both the dryer end and the exterior end if possible.
Step 5: Clean the Exterior Vent Cap
Go outside and remove the vent cap cover. Clean out any lint, debris, or bird nests. Ensure the damper flap opens freely.
Step 6: Reconnect and Test
Reattach the flexible duct. Slide the dryer back. Run a load and confirm the flow sense warning is gone.