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csia.orgfor a list of certified contractors and proper meth-
ods of cleaning.
Dryer vent cleaning must include inspection
from the interior and exterior.
• No one can clean a dryer vent properly without coming
into your home.
• The transition duct that runs from the dryer to the first
connection of the wall must be clear of debris, lint or
obstruction and made of metal. Plastic is no longer up
to code and must be replaced.
• The most effective method of cleaning is by use of a
brush system running through the entire length of the
duct.
• A blower unit alone is not the method of choice because
it doesn’t generate enough air pressure to force the lint
through the entire length of the duct. Some communities
have older duct work which was constructed out of
plastic. Over time this kind of duct work may become
separated, and or packed with lint. In these cases, a
re-routing or re-connection may be necessary to have the
duct brought up to current standards and codes.
• While price is a consideration, the cheapest compa-
ny may not do the job properly. Credible companies
must pay to have their people properly insured and
trained. It is worth the extra money to have the job
done correctly. But remember, if the owner is the
CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 36
(above) Manual
Lint Trap found in
some ductwork. This
should be cleaned.
(below) Plastic transition
ducts have long been
against code. They must be
replaced with metal ducts to
meet safety standards.