How do I clean my Samsung dryer trap?

What is a dryer trap?

A dryer trap, also called a lint trap or lint filter, is a small filter inside your dryer that catches lint and other debris from your clothes as they tumble in the dryer drum. Lint and debris can build up in the trap over time and needs to be cleaned out regularly. Cleaning the dryer trap improves airflow and prevents clogs, allowing your Samsung dryer to dry efficiently.

Why is cleaning the dryer trap important?

There are a few key reasons why regularly cleaning out your Samsung dryer’s lint trap is important:

Prevents fires

Lint buildup is highly flammable. If enough lint accumulates in the trap or vent hose, it can potentially catch fire from the heat of the dryer. Cleaning the trap regularly helps remove this fire hazard.

Improves efficiency

When lint and debris accumulate in the trap and vent, it restricts airflow. This forces the dryer to work harder and use more energy to get clothes dry. Cleaning the lint trap improves air circulation for faster, more efficient drying.

Extends dryer life

A clogged lint trap forces the dryer motor to work harder. This additional strain can cause the motor to wear out and fail prematurely. Regularly cleaning out the lint trap prevents overworking the motor, extending the life of your dryer.

Prevents vent clogs

Lint can accumulate not only in the trap itself, but also in the vent hose that leads outside. Cleaning the trap catches lint before it can clog the vent, which prevents reduced airflow, longer dry times, and potential fire hazards.

How often should I clean the dryer trap?

Samsung recommends cleaning the lint trap before every load you dry. This ensures maximum airflow and efficiency for each cycle.

Cleaning before each load removes only a small amount of lint, but this really adds up over time. Waiting longer between cleanings allows a dangerous amount of flammable lint to accumulate. Developing the habit of small, frequent cleanings is better than infrequent deep cleanings when the trap is overflowing with lint.

Step-by-step guide to cleaning a Samsung dryer trap

Cleaning a Samsung dryer lint trap is a very quick and simple process. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Locate the lint trap

The lint traps in Samsung dryers are located either in the door opening itself or behind a small access panel on the top of the dryer. Check your dryer manual if you have trouble finding it.

Front-load dryer traps are typically located behind a small door in the bottom corner of the door opening. Top-load dryer traps are usually found behind a panel on the top of the machine.

Step 2: Pull out the lint trap

Once located, simply pull the lint trap straight out of the dryer. The trap may be slightly stuck due to lint buildup, so you may need to wiggle it back and forth gently to remove it.

Don’t tug excessively hard or you could bend or break the lint trap. Be patient and work it back and forth until it comes free.

Step 3: Open the lint trap

Most Samsung lint traps have a hinged opening door. After removing the trap, flip open the small access door to expose the lint screen mesh inside. This gives you access to the built-up lint for removal.

Step 4: Remove the lint

With the lint trap open, check for any accumulated lint clinging to the mesh screen. Use your fingers to pull off any large clumps or debris. For finer lint stuck in the mesh holes, use a soft brush, old toothbrush, or the hose attachment from a vacuum to brush it free.

Make sure to clean both sides of the lint screen thoroughly. Also check for any lint stuck around the trap opening and seal.

Step 5: Clean with water (optional)

For a deep clean to remove any residual lint in the trap, you can wash it under warm running water. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the plastic.

Use a soft brush under the faucet to remove lint caught in the screen. Make sure to dry the trap fully before reinserting into the dryer.

Step 6: Replace the lint trap

Once fully cleaned and dried, simply slide the lint trap back into its slot in the dryer. Push it in firmly until it clicks securely into place. Close the access door if applicable.

Step 7: Test run the dryer

It’s a good idea to test run the dryer for a few minutes after cleaning the lint trap. The airflow should be greatly improved. This lets you confirm the trap is properly in place before starting a full cycle.

How to clean a Samsung dryer vent

In addition to the lint trap, it’s also important to periodically clean the entire dryer vent that leads outdoors. Lint can accumulate in the vent hose and reduce airflow. Here is how to clean the vent:

Disconnect the vent

Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall. Then disconnect the flexible vent hose from the dryer vent hood outside. You may need pliers to loosen the clamp holding it in place.

Clean the vent hose

Use a vent brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to suck out any lint inside the vent hose. Run the brush through the full length of the hose. An alternative is to use a dryer vent cleaning kit with flexible brushes.

Remove the vent hood cover

The vent hood cover outside will also have lint accumulation. Remove the cover by loosening the screws and then use a small wire brush to dislodge lint from the screen.

Reassemble everything

Replace the vent cover, securely reconnect the vent hose, move the dryer back into position, and plug it back in. Test that good airflow is restored before using the dryer again. Clean the full vent every six months or so.

Samsung dryer trap troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your Samsung dryer that could be related to the lint trap, here are some troubleshooting tips:

Dryer not heating properly

A clogged lint trap is one potential cause of a dryer not heating fully. The restricted airflow prevents the heating element from getting hot enough. Clean the lint trap thoroughly and test the dryer again.

Clothes taking too long to dry

Long dry times are another sign of reduced airflow from lint buildup. Cleaning the trap should allow clothes to dry quicker. Also check that the external vent is clear.

You can confirm the lint trap is the issue by timing a load. If cleaning the trap cuts the dry time significantly, the clog was the problem.

Lint trap difficult to remove

If the lint trap seems stuck and won’t slide out, lint has likely built up around the opening as well as on the screen. Use a small brush and vacuum crevice tool to remove lint from around the trap opening. Then keep wiggling the trap gently until it is freed.

Squeaking or rattling noise

If you hear rattling or squeaking when the dryer is running, it could be that the lint trap has come loose. Open the dryer, remove the lint trap, clean it thoroughly and make sure it is firmly clicked into position before retesting the machine.

Burning smell during drying

A burning odor can occur if there is a significant lint accumulation in the trap, vent hose or external vent. The lint may be overheating from restricted airflow. Cleaning the system thoroughly should eliminate the burning smell.

When to replace a Samsung dryer lint trap

The lint trap should provide years of use with regular cleaning. However, if it becomes damaged or otherwise unable to function properly, replacement is required. Here are some signs to replace a Samsung dryer lint trap:

– Visible cracks, warping or other damage that prevents proper fit and function
– Mesh screen holes are stretched out or torn, allowing lint to pass through into the ductwork
– Missing or failed latch that will not hold the trap tightly in place
– Severe corrosion and mineral buildup that is unable to be removed

You can order a replacement Samsung dryer lint trap through appliance parts suppliers using the model number from your dryer’s rating plate. Make sure to get the proper part for your specific Samsung dryer model. Installation is the same as cleaning by simply removing the old trap and sliding in the new one.

Tips for preventing lint buildup

While regular cleaning prevents lint issues, there are also some tips to reduce lint production in your Samsung dryer:

Use a lint roller on clothing

Roller lint off fabrics before washing and drying them. This removes excess lint producers before they enter the dryer.

Empty pockets before loading

Any items in pockets like tissues or receipts can increase lint in the dryer trap. Always empty pockets before drying clothes.

Dry similar items together

Washing and drying items like towels or socks together minimizes lint transfer between loads. Try not to mix lint producers like towels with lint collectors like black clothes.

Clean the washer lint filters

Make sure your washing machine lint filters are also cleaned out regularly to prevent moving lint to the dryer.

Use dryer balls or sheets

Wool dryer balls or reusable dryer sheets help knock lint off clothes and trap it in their fibers, reducing buildup in the lint trap.

Use lower heat settings

Lint production increases at higher heat settings. Using a delicate or low heat cycle can help limit lint.

Upgrade to a lint-fighting washer

Some top-load washers have a built-in lint filter that traps lint before transferring clothes to the dryer.

Conclusion

Allowing lint to build up in your Samsung dryer can create fire hazards, reduce efficiency, and cause damage over time. The dryer will function best when you make cleaning the lint trap before every load a habit. Occasionally cleaning the internal vent and external hood will also help maximize airflow. With proper dryer trap maintenance, your Samsung dryer will operate safely and effectively.