Dryer duct cleaning

A few weeks ago, I did the job of cleaning out our dryer duct. I had ordered one several months ago from ebay, but had never used it. It's one of those "AS SEEN ON TV" kits I got on ebay for about $11.00 (includes shipping).

I watched this video recently and decided it was a necessary chore. Take a look: http://video.msn.com/video.aspx?mkt=en-us&vid=3272d5d9-69cd-4846-bab9-6f135d161b89&fg=rss&from=34

It scared me enough to finally take action. It was Tom's mission of the week on flylady.net , so I was all the more motivated to do it. The link to the video was part of their reminder email. It was simple enough to do, though moving the dryer is a bit difficult, mostly because the space is a bit cramped. But I did it myself, while my DH was working and it took me about 1 hour 30 minutes to do, from start to finish. Instructions are in the box, and can easily be found on the internet, but basically all you're doing is vacuuming up all the lint that collects in the duct from the lint filter opening in the machine, around and under the dryer, through the tube and to the opening that blows the hot air out of the house. One tip... wear a dust mask or wrap a damp lightweight towel around your nose and mouth. And have your tool box ready to remove the duct tube attached to the dryer.

According to my internet research, the job (including travel time), can cost between $65- 199.00. $65.00 would be if they were doing several in the same area on that day, and of course $199.00 would be what the manufacturer's technicians would charge you. Wow... that's a pretty hefty markup from $11.00.

Our duct was pretty dirty, and I'm glad it's done. The clothing was taking a little longer to dry and it definitely made a difference. Not to mention I feel much safer now.