There should be clamps that connect the exhaust pipe of the dryer to the vent. Use a screwdriver to release these so that you can vacuum. You can put the tube of the vacuum directly up the vent. However, there are special attachments that can be clamped onto the end of the tube that are designed to pick up lint from a vent. These can help vacuum the vent. [3] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source
If the guard is secured in place by nails, place a cat’s paw pry bar under the head of the nail and hit the pry bar with a hammer to release the nails. After you have removed the nails, hold on to them so that you can reinstall them later. [6] X Research source After the nails have been removed, pull up on the guard to remove it. You might need to twist it as you pull to dislodge it.
Because much of the lint concentrates near the ends of the vent tube, this basic cleaning and the vacuuming on the ground floor should remove most of the lint. If you can see significant amounts of lint that remain beyond your reach, call a professional.
If you find that the guard is not intact, call a professional to have it replaced. Debris falling into the vent could seriously compromise your dryer. [9] X Research source Installing a guard would also help prevent birds and mice from entering the vent.
Safety harnesses can cost about $300, which is more than the cost of having a professional clean your vent, which is about $120. However, if you do a lot of work around the house, a safety harness could be a good long-term investment. [13] X Research source
For example, if you know your roof is 21 feet tall and that you want the ladder to extend 3 feet past the roof, then the bottom the ladder should be planted 6 feet from the roof. [15] X Research source
