Clean out the lint for dryer efficiency

A clogged lint screen or dryer duct drastically reduces the efficiency of your dryer, whether its gas or electric. Clean the lint screen after each load and clean the exhaust duct once a year. The cleaner shown here has an auger brush that attaches to a drill to clean out the ducts. Its available at home centers.Electric dryers use about $85 of electricity annually. A dirty lint screen can cause the dryer to use up to 30 percent more electricity ($25 per year), according to the Consumer Energy Center. Lint buildup is also a common cause of fires.Dry loads of laundry back to back so the dryer doesnt cool down between loads (a warm dryer uses less energy). And only run the dryer until the clothes are dry. Overdrying damages your clothes and runs up your electric bill. If youre in the market for a new dryer and already have a gas line in the house, go with a gas dryer. A gas dryer is more efficient.