Housewife MacGyver: Handyman Help for the Dryer

Today we have our fourth and final segment of the Handyman Help mini-series: your dryer. If you missed the previous segments, don't forget to check them out -- dishwasher, fridge/freezer, and washer. And a huge thanks to Steve and Meredin for being my guests!

My Dryer Doesn't, er, Dry
If you notice that your dryer has stopped drying your clothes like it used to, a quick check and cleaning could save your dryer and your house!

First, check your vent between the dryer and the wall for build up of lint or a kinked vent (hose). Adjust the vent if it's kinked, and vacuum away any lint.

While you're checking, if the vent (hose) is longer than it needs to be, you can just cut it down to save some space and energy.

Next, check the portion of the vent that goes between the wall behind the dryer and the outside dryer vent for lint build-up:

You can either purchase a DIY vent cleaning kit at the hardware store or call a professional duct and vent cleaning company to take care of any build-up.

What's the big deal with lint? A lint build-up can cause your dryer to burn out a fuse or heating element -- or, more importantly, cause a fire. Keeping your dryer area lint-free with an annual cleaning saves you on unnecessary repairs and keeps your home and family safe.

About the author: Steve Newcomb has been an appliance repairman for 3 years now, in addition to attending school and raising a wonderful family with his wife, Meredin. He works on most brands of appliances (except Subzero, Wolf, or Viking), both in and out of warranty, for Utah clients from Springville to Salt Lake (and beyond, with an additional travel fee). Mention that you saw Steve here on just Lu when you call and receive $10 off your first service call (typically $75 for the original service call plus a return visit to install parts, as necessary). Steve also offers a 30-day work warranty. Contact Steve at (801)472-2515 to set up an appointment.

Alright, Housewives... all together now... "Banish the lint!"

Another huge thanks to Steve and Meredin for being our handyman guests. And don't forget to call Steve if you have an appliance problem that really does merit the repairman!

This post is part of the Housewife MacGyver series on just Lu. Read more about Housewife MacGyver and see all the posts in the series here.