🧼 How Often Do I Need to Clean My Dryer Vent? - Dryer vent in San Antonio.

Your dryer vent might be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind. Lint buildup inside dryer vents is a leading cause of house fires, and cleaning it regularly is one of the easiest ways to stay safe and save money.

🔁 General Rule: At Least Once a Year

For most households, cleaning the dryer vent once a year is enough to keep things running safely and efficiently. This includes clearing lint from the vent duct, the exterior vent hood, and areas the lint trap doesn’t catch.

🧺 You May Need to Clean It More Often If:

• You do laundry daily or multiple times a week

• You have pets (pet hair mixes with lint and clogs vents faster)

• Your vent system is long or has multiple bends, which trap more lint

• You notice signs of a clog (see below)

In these cases, cleaning your vent every 6 months is a smarter and safer choice.

⚠️ Warning Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent

• Clothes take longer than usual to dry

• Dryer or clothes feel unusually hot after a cycle

• Musty or burning smells during or after drying

• Weak airflow from the exterior vent flap

• Lint buildup around the dryer or on clothing

✅ Why Regular Dryer Vent Cleaning Matters

• Reduces fire risk caused by flammable lint buildup

• Improves drying efficiency, saving energy and money

• Extends your dryer’s lifespan by reducing wear and tear

• Prevents mold and moisture buildup in the vent line

Pro Tip: Add It to Your Annual Home Maintenance Checklist

Just like chimney cleaning, make dryer vent cleaning a yearly task—ideally in spring or fall. Or better yet, pair it with your chimney inspection and knock out two safety jobs at once.

Need help with a professional dryer vent cleaning? Contact Somri Home Services now to schedule a visit—we’ll keep your dryer safe and running like new.