How to Replace Dryer Screens

Replace your dryer lint screen to keep your dryer running smoothly

Dryer screens filter out lint and debris before it exits the exhaust duct. This helps prevent clogging the dryer vents with debris and causing your dryer to work harder. Replacing the dryer screen is a simple matter of pulling the old one out and installing a new screen. Although home improvement centers carry a variety of dryer screens, you will probably find the exact replacement screen for your dryer at an appliance repair center or online through the manufacturer.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement dryer lint screen

Instructions

1. Locate the lint screen for your dryer. Some models have the lint screen on the top panel. Lift up the access door, and pull out the lint screen. Other models have the lint screen in the bottom lip of the door. Open the door and pull the lint screen from the dryer.

2. Take the lint screen to an appliance repair shop or a home improvement center. Because there are so many different styles and shapes of lint screens, you will want to match up a new screen with your old one.

3. Insert a lint brush into the lint screen opening and remove any built up lint from the opening. This will help your dryer run better as well.

4. Insert the new lint screen into the lint screen opening in your dryer.

Tips & Warnings

• The U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission recommends cleaning your dryer screen before or after each load of laundry.

• Never operate the dryer without a dryer screen. This could cause lint buildup in the dryer duct and could cause a dryer fire.

References

• U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission: Overheated Clothes Dryers Can Cause Fires
• AppliancePartsPro: Lint Screens and Filters