Lint is the single biggest maintenance issue for a dryer, and it isn’t just about drying time — a clogged vent is a genuine fire-safety issue, not just an inconvenience.
What to do, and how often
- Clean the lint trap before every single load, not weekly — every load
- Check the exhaust vent behind the dryer once or twice a year for lint buildup, and make sure the outside vent flap opens freely when running
- Vacuum around and behind the dryer periodically — lint escapes the trap over time
- Keep the area around the dryer clear so nothing is blocking airflow at the back
Signs the vent needs attention
- Clothes taking noticeably longer to dry than they used to
- The outside of the dryer feeling hotter than usual
- A burning smell, especially at the start of a cycle
What not to do yourself
- Gas dryers: never attempt any work near the gas line or burner assembly — that’s a call, always
- Don’t disable the door safety switch to “fix” a dryer that stops when the door’s cracked — that switch is doing its job
When it’s time for a repair visit, not maintenance
If the vent is clear, the lint trap is clean, and it’s still taking multiple cycles to dry — or not heating at all — see our dryer problems article.