If you run your washer-dryer and find that your clothes do not dry in one go, forcing you to run it twice, it is time to suspect lint accumulated in the vent before a machine malfunction. Fine lint that is not filtered out by the lint filter gradually accumulates in the exhaust duct inside the wall; if the airflow is blocked, drying times become longer, the machine overheats, and the risk of fire increases.
1. If you see these signals, an inspection is required.
- When drying time takes longer than usual or clothes do not dry completely at once
- When the dryer unit or clothes are unusually hotter than usual
- When there is a burning or musty smell when turning
- When the outdoor exhaust flap does not open easily or lint is visible around it
- When the laundry room feels hotter and more humid than usual
2. Here is how to manage your daily care
It is standard practice to empty the lint filter every time it is turned. However, since the filter does not reach deep inside the duct, fire safety guidelines generally recommend cleaning the entire exhaust system once a year. It is advisable to check it more frequently if you have a large family with high usage, pets that shed a lot, or homes with long, bending ducts.
3. Scope of what can be done personally and cases where an expert is needed
You can pull the dryer forward slightly and clean the accessible areas yourself using a vacuum cleaner and a long brush (vent brush kit). However, it is difficult to clean long ducts, structures exiting through the roof, or those with multiple bends yourself. Additionally, for gas dryers, it is safer to leave the work to a professional as the valves may need to be tampered with. After cleaning, firmly reconnect the hoses and run the dryer to check that the outer cover opens easily.
As winter approaches, dryer usage increases due to the washing of thick clothes and bedding. Checking your dryer once before the winter season fully sets in can help you save on electricity bills and extend the machine's lifespan.
Source: Vacu-Man — Dryer Vent Cleaning in Hamilton · Dynamic Heating and Cooling — How to Clean Your Dryer Vent: A Hamilton Homeowner's Guide
https://vacuman.com/news/dryer-vent-cleaning-hamilton/
https://dynamicheatandcool.ca/dryer-vent-cleaning-guide/ | 
