Tools & materials
- Dryer vent brush kit with extensions
- Vacuum
- Screwdriver
- Foil tape or clamps
- New semi-rigid metal duct (if the old one is foil or vinyl)
Step by step
- Step 1
Unplug the dryer (and turn off gas at the shutoff for gas dryers) and pull it away from the wall.
- Step 2
Loosen the clamp and disconnect the duct from the dryer and the wall.
- Step 3
Run the vent brush through the wall duct from inside and from the outside hood.
- Step 4
Vacuum the lint from the dryer outlet and the lint trap cavity.
- Step 5
Replace any plastic or foil duct with semi-rigid metal, reconnect with clamps or foil tape (no screws).
- Step 6
Run the dryer and check that the outside flap opens and air flows strongly.
When to stop and call ProFix
If you see any of these, stop and call us:
- The vent run is long, on a roof or through multiple floors
- Clothes still take more than one cycle to dry
- You smell burning or the dryer is very hot to the touch
- It's a gas dryer and you smell gas
Not in the mood to DIY? A ProFix pro can handle it for you in Chicago Metro and Dallas–Fort Worth, with a written price before work starts.
Related guides
These guides are general information for simple repairs. You're responsible for your own safety and for following local codes and your lease or HOA rules. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional. All DIY guides