Clogged vents contribute to over 7,000 home fires every year. Not only are clogs dangerous, they serious affect drying performance and speed. Country Living has details on DIY cleaning that only require a screwdriver, vacuum with crevice attachment, a wire coat hanger and metal foil duct tape. Or you can buy a kit at the hardware store for about $15. To lower lint build-up, clean the lint trap every load and avoid dryer sheets. They leave a sticky residue that can trap lint.