How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent?
How Often Should You Clean Your Dryer Vent? Expert Tips for a Safer, More Efficient Home
When was the last time you had your dryer vent cleaned? If you’re not sure, you’re not alone — and you could be overdue. At VentSafe, we help homeowners in Santa Clarita stay safe, efficient, and ahead of problems with a smart dryer vent maintenance schedule.
Let’s break down the ideal dryer vent cleaning frequency, why it matters, and what your home’s timeline should look like.
The General Rule: Once Per Year
Most experts — including the U.S. Fire Administration — recommend cleaning your dryer vent at least once every 12 months. This is the minimum standard for the average household.
But some homes need it more often depending on:
Dryer usage (daily vs. weekly)
Number of people in the home
Type of laundry (pet bedding, towels, etc.)
Length and layout of the vent duct
High-Risk Homes May Need Cleaning Every 6 Months
If any of the following apply to you, increase the frequency to twice a year:
You run your dryer more than 5 times per week
You have pets that shed
Your dryer is located far from an exterior wall
You’ve noticed clothes taking longer to dry
You have an older dryer or flexible plastic vent hose
These are all signs that your dryer vent cleaning timeline should be tighter to maintain safety and efficiency.
Why Sticking to a Cleaning Schedule Matters
Dryer vents can gradually accumulate lint, dust, pet hair, and even moisture. Over time, this creates:
Fire hazards
Energy waste
Premature dryer failure
Poor drying performance
Musty or burned odors in clothes
A consistent dryer vent cleaning routine ensures you’re not waiting for these problems to show up.
Best Practices for Maintaining Your Dryer Vent
Here’s how to stay on track:
- Mark your calendar every 12 months (or 6 if needed)
- Schedule professional cleanings, especially for long or hard-to-access vents
- Clean the lint screen after every load
- Vacuum around the dryer monthly to remove extra lint
- Watch for signs like overheating, lint buildup, or long dry times
Set It and Forget It with VentSafe
At VentSafe, we make dryer vent maintenance easy for Santa Clarita homeowners. We offer reminders, flexible scheduling, and full-service cleanings that go beyond just clearing lint — we inspect airflow, vent condition, and overall safety.
Book Your Routine Cleaning Today
Don’t wait for a warning sign. Add dryer vent cleaning to your annual home safety checklist — and let VentSafe handle the hard part.
Schedule your appointment today and breathe easier, year-round.
