Cleaning the lint trap removes the lint caught on one small screen inside the dryer, while dryer vent cleaning clears the entire duct that carries hot, moist air from the dryer to the outside of your home. You should empty the lint trap after every load, and have the vent duct itself cleaned when lint builds up past the screen, which the trap alone can never reach.
What the lint trap actually catches
The lint screen is a first filter. It catches most of the visible fibers, but fine lint still slips through the mesh and travels into the transition hose, the wall duct and the exterior hood. Over months that fine lint settles along bends, joints and long runs, especially where the duct goes up through a wall or out through the roof.
What dryer vent cleaning covers
- The transition hose behind the dryer
- The full duct run inside the wall, ceiling or attic
- Bends and elbows where lint collects
- The exterior vent hood or roof cap, including the flap
Our dryer vent cleaning service clears that whole path, not just the parts you can see.
Why Florida homes are harder on dryer vents
Tampa Bay humidity means damp air sits in the duct longer, and moist lint clumps and sticks to duct walls more readily than dry lint. Many local homes also have long vent runs to an exterior wall or roof, which gives lint more places to settle.
Signs the vent, not the trap, is the problem
- Clothes need two cycles even with a clean lint screen
- The dryer or laundry room feels unusually hot
- A burning or musty smell when the dryer runs
- The exterior flap barely opens while the dryer is running
- Lint visible around the outside vent hood
How much does it cost?
Dryer vent cleaning from The Ductors is $89, or $149 combined with air duct cleaning. Details are on our pricing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cleaning the lint trap enough?
No. The lint trap only catches lint on one screen. Fine lint passes through and builds up in the vent duct, which needs to be cleaned separately.
How often should the lint trap be cleaned?
After every load. Washing the screen with warm soapy water now and then also removes residue from dryer sheets.
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
Most homes benefit from a yearly vent cleaning, and sooner if you notice longer drying times, heat or a burning smell.
How much does dryer vent cleaning cost in Tampa Bay?
The Ductors charges $89 for dryer vent cleaning, or $149 when combined with air duct cleaning.
Book in Tampa Bay: call (656) 236-4254. We serve Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties plus Lakeland. See all service areas and current prices on our pricing page.
