Quick Answer
Lint is one of the most common causes of dryer fires. It builds up in the lint filter, the internal duct and the outside vent flap. Clean the lint filter after every load, check the external vent flap regularly, and book a professional duct clean if the dryer takes longer to dry or the cabinet gets hot.
Never leave a dryer running when you go out or go to sleep.
A dryer does its job by moving hot air through your clothes and out of the house. Lint is the fluff that comes off the clothes during drying, and it's highly flammable. When it builds up in the filter, the duct or the outside vent, the risk of fire goes up.
This guide covers the simple checks you can do every week, the signs of a blocked duct, and when to book a dryer repair technician in Melbourne. See also our guide on dryers not heating.
Why lint is a fire risk
Lint burns easily. When it collects in the duct behind the drum, heat can't escape properly, and the dryer can overheat. A blocked vent can cause the dryer to fail or, in the worst case, catch fire. This is why fire services regularly warn about dryer lint.
Clean the lint filter after every load
Pull out the lint filter before or after every load, and remove the lint with your fingers or a soft brush. A thin layer of lint on the filter reduces airflow even if you can't see much. Make it part of your routine, like emptying the dishwasher.
Check the outside vent flap
Go outside and check the vent where the dryer exhausts. The flap should open when the dryer runs and close when it's off. If it's stuck, or lint and fluff are building up around it, clean it. A blocked flap is one of the most common causes of slow drying.
Signs the duct is blocked
Watch for these warning signs: clothes take longer to dry than they used to, the dryer cabinet or the wall behind it feels hot, the clothes come out warm but damp, or there is a burning smell. Any of these means you should stop using the dryer and get it checked.
When to book a professional clean
Duct cleaning reaches parts you can't safely clean yourself. Book a technician if you have never had the duct cleaned, if the vent run is long or has bends, or if you have pets or a large household that dries a lot of clothes. Ask for the duct to be checked for damage at the same visit.
Book a Dryer Repair in Melbourne
If your dryer is slow, hot or smells of burning, stop using it and book a dryer repair. Ask for the duct to be checked at the same visit. For drying problems, read dryer not heating in Melbourne, and for the benefits of regular servicing see why regular dryer servicing matters.
What's Safe to Check Yourself vs When to Call a Pro
Safe to Check Yourself
- Clean the lint filter after every load, and check it for tears.
- Check the outside vent flap is opening and closing freely.
- Remove lint from around the vent and the flap outside.
- Stop using the dryer if it smells of burning, feels hot at the cabinet, or dries very slowly.
Always Call a Licensed Technician
- Clean and inspect the full duct run, including bends and the external vent.
- Check the heating element, thermal fuse and temperature sensor.
- Confirm the airflow and the exhaust is clear before returning the dryer to service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean the dryer vent?▼
Clean the lint filter every load. The full duct should be cleaned by a professional about once a year, or more often if you dry a lot of clothes.
Can I clean the dryer duct myself?▼
You can clean the lint filter and the outside vent. The internal duct is harder to reach safely, and a professional clean is the better option.
Is it dangerous to dry towels or clothes with oil on them?▼
Yes. Clothes with cooking oil, cleaning products or other residues can be a fire risk in a dryer. Wash them thoroughly first and follow the care label.
What should I do if my dryer smells of burning?▼
Switch it off at the wall, do not run it again, and call a technician. Don't keep using it to see if the smell goes away.
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Dishank Patel
Lead Technician & Founder · DP Electric Melbourne
Dishank Patel has over 10 years of hands-on experience repairing household appliances across Melbourne's eastern suburbs. He holds all required Victorian electrical and gas licensing and has personally repaired thousands of appliances across brands including Bosch, Miele, LG, Samsung, and Fisher & Paykel.