Updated July 17, 2026
The short answer
Natural Resources Canada’s EnerGuide appliance guidance advises inspecting and cleaning the exhaust duct and outside vent at least once a year. Follow the appliance owner’s manual and any condo, landlord or property-management requirements that apply to your setup.
“Once a year” is a baseline, not a promise that every vent will remain clear for twelve months. Frequency depends on how the dryer is used and how air travels to the exterior.
Consider earlier assessment when…
- The dryer runs frequently or serves multiple occupants
- The vent route is long or has several bends
- The appliance is stacked or tightly enclosed
- There are pets and high lint loads
- A booster fan is part of the system
- Drying time or heat has noticeably increased
- The exterior flap is not opening normally
- The property is a rental, condo or shared laundry with its own schedule
A simple dryer maintenance schedule
| When | Action |
|---|---|
| Every load | Clean the lint screen and check that it is not damaged. |
| Regularly | Look at the accessible area around the dryer and outdoor outlet for lint, damage or obstruction. |
| At least annually | Inspect and clean the exhaust duct and outside vent, following appliance guidance and using qualified help where appropriate. |
| Whenever performance changes | Do not wait for the calendar if cycles lengthen, heat rises, airflow weakens or unusual odours appear. |
| After moving or renovation | Check that the connector was not crushed and the route remains properly connected. |
Lint-screen cleaning is necessary, but not the whole job
The lint screen captures much of the lint, not all of it. Toronto Fire Services advises cleaning the screen after each load and regularly removing lint from metal ducts and exhaust vents. The City also recommends checking that the outdoor flap opens while the dryer operates.
Condo and rental schedules
Managed buildings may coordinate vent work because portions of the system are common elements or difficult to access. Owners and tenants should confirm responsibility in writing instead of assuming the in-suite vent is entirely theirs.
Use symptoms to override the calendar
If there is a burning smell, smoke or immediate danger, stop using the appliance. Leave the area and call 911 for a fire or emergency. An online quote request is not an emergency service.