How do I clean the duct behind my dryer?

Cleaning your dryer vent duct is a great home maintenance task — it's one of the most important things you can do to prevent dryer fires and keep your dryer running efficiently. This is something most homeowners can do themselves, and it's different from your home's HVAC duct system.

What You'll Need

You'll want a dryer vent cleaning kit (available at Home Depot or Canadian Tire for $20–$40), which includes flexible rods that connect together and a brush head. You'll also need a vacuum with a hose attachment.

How to Do It

Start by unplugging your dryer from the electrical outlet. If it's a gas dryer, also turn off the gas supply valve behind the unit. Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the flexible duct from the back of the dryer — it's usually held on with a clamp or simply friction-fit. Use your brush kit to run the brush through the duct from both ends (behind the dryer and from the exterior vent cap outside), then vacuum up all the lint you dislodge. While you're at it, check that the exterior vent flap opens and closes freely and isn't blocked by debris or a bird nest.

Ottawa-Specific Context

Ottawa winters mean your exterior vent cap can get clogged with ice or snow, which is worth checking each spring. Dryer vents should ideally be cleaned at least once a year, or more often if you do heavy laundry loads. The total duct run from your dryer to the outside should be no more than about 25 feet (less with each elbow bend) — longer runs trap more lint.

Safety Note

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a leading cause of house fires in Canada. If your dryer is taking two or more cycles to dry a load, that's a strong sign the vent is restricted. Also make sure your duct is made of rigid or semi-rigid metal — plastic or foil accordion ducts are a fire hazard and should be replaced.

If your duct run is long, has many bends, or you find significant buildup you can't clear yourself, a professional dryer vent cleaning is worth considering. Ottawa HVAC Pro also offers professional duct cleaning services if you'd like the whole job done right — just reach out for a quote.