Clearing Wet Lint from an Exhaust Dryer
Recently, I had to clean out wet lint from an exhaust dryer. The homeowner had noticed that their dryer was not drying clothes efficiently, and there was a damp, musty smell coming from the vent. Upon inspection, I found that the exhaust vent was clogged with wet lint, which can be a common but serious issue in dryers.
Identifying the Problem
Wet lint buildup occurs when moisture from the drying process gets trapped in the exhaust system. This can happen due to poor ventilation, a clogged lint trap, or excess humidity in the laundry area. In this case, the lint had accumulated inside the vent, forming a thick, damp layer that restricted airflow and reduced the dryer’s efficiency.
Cleaning the Wet Lint
To clear out the lint, I first unplugged the dryer and disconnected the exhaust hose. The inside of the vent was packed with soggy lint, making it necessary to remove it carefully to avoid spreading debris. Using a vacuum with a long hose attachment, I was able to suck out most of the lint. For stubborn patches, I used a dryer vent brush to scrub the interior of the vent, ensuring that all blockages were removed.
Next, I cleaned the lint trap and surrounding areas, wiping down any moist surfaces to prevent further buildup. I also checked the outside vent for obstructions and cleared away any debris that could impede airflow.
Preventing Future Buildup
To prevent wet lint buildup in the future, I recommended the following steps to the homeowner:
- Clean the lint trap after every load.
- Ensure the dryer vent is inspected and cleaned at least once a year.
- Use a vent brush or vacuum attachment to remove any excess lint from the exhaust hose.
- Make sure the exhaust vent has proper airflow and is not blocked by furniture or outside debris.
- If drying particularly damp clothes or heavy loads, consider running an extra spin cycle in the washer to reduce excess moisture before drying.
After completing the cleaning, the dryer functioned efficiently again, and the musty smell disappeared. If you’re experiencing slow drying times, damp clothes, or an unusual smell from your dryer, it might be time to check for wet lint buildup. Regular maintenance can prevent clogs, reduce fire hazards, and keep your dryer running smoothly!
Lint
Wet lint in the dryer exhaust
Lint in the exhaust line.