Clean dryer vent duct

Short answer

Disconnect the duct, vacuum lint from both ends with a flexible vent brush, and clear the exterior vent hood once a year.

Why It Matters

Lint in the dryer duct is a leading cause of house fires. It also dramatically increases drying time and stresses the motor.

Pull the dryer away from the wall far enough to access the duct connection at the back.
Disconnect the duct from the dryer.
Insert the flexible vent brush into the duct opening at the dryer end and work it through to loosen lint, then vacuum out the debris.
Go outside and remove the exterior vent hood cover, then vacuum and brush lint from that end of the duct.
Reattach the exterior vent hood cover and confirm the flap moves freely.
Reconnect the duct to the dryer and push the dryer back into place.