Short answer: A “Check Vent” light, or a vent blockage code like LG’s d80, means the dryer has sensed restricted airflow, almost always from lint in the lint screen or the vent line, a crushed hose behind the dryer, or a blocked outside hood. Clean the lint screen, check the hose and the outside hood, and if the light keeps coming on, have the whole vent line cleaned. Many dryers keep running with the light on, but drying takes longer and the vent keeps filling.
What does “Check Vent” mean on a dryer?
It means air isn’t getting out fast enough. Whirlpool says its Check Vent light “indicates that the dryer airflow is restricted,” and on some models it comes on when a blocked vent or low airflow is sensed at the start of an automatic cycle. Samsung’s Vent Check icon lights up when the vent is about 60% clogged and blinks at about 80%. LG dryers show d80, d90 or d95, meaning about 80%, 90% or 95% of the duct is blocked.
Check vent warnings by brand
| Brand | What you’ll see | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Whirlpool and Maytag | “Check Vent” light or an AF code | Restricted airflow; the lint screen or vent is clogged |
| Samsung | Vent Check icon, solid or blinking | Solid at about 60% clogged, blinking at about 80% |
| LG | d80, d90 or d95 code (Flow Sense) | About 80%, 90% or 95% of the duct blocked; LG says the dryer can shut down to avoid overheating |
| GE, Kenmore and others | Varies by model | Not every model has a vent sensor; check your use-and-care manual for the exact code |
What to check first
- Clean the lint screen. A full screen alone can trigger the light.
- Look behind the dryer for a crushed or kinked hose. Whirlpool recommends at least 4 inches between the dryer and the wall.
- Run the dryer for 5 to 10 minutes and go outside to feel the vent hood. Whirlpool’s test: if the airflow is weaker than a hair dryer on high, the whole vent system needs cleaning.
- Check the outside hood for lint, a stuck flap, a nest or snow.
- Run a timed heated cycle. If the light comes back, the problem is inside the vent line.
Why is the check vent light still on after cleaning the lint trap?
- Only part of the line was cleaned. A short brush can clear the first few feet and leave the rest packed (see DIY kit vs. hiring a pro).
- The vent is too long or has too many bends. Whirlpool recommends the shortest vent possible and as few 90° elbows as possible.
- Plastic or foil hose. Replace it with metal duct, as the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends; Whirlpool specifies 4-inch rigid or flexible metal.
- A crushed or disconnected section inside a wall or ceiling, which needs dryer vent replacement, not just cleaning.
Is it safe to keep using the dryer with the check vent light on?
Whirlpool says its dryers keep running with the light on; LG’s Flow Sense can shut the dryer down. Either way, the vent is restricted, so get it cleaned soon, and stop using the dryer if it gets very hot or you smell burning. For other warning signs, see 9 signs your dryer vent is clogged.
Frequently asked questions
How do you reset the check vent light on a dryer?
Fix the airflow problem first. On Whirlpool and Maytag dryers, clean the lint screen and vent, then run a timed heated cycle and restart the dryer. If the light comes back on the next load, the vent is still restricted and the whole home vent needs cleaning. Other brands vary, so check your manual.
Does the check vent light mean the dryer is broken?
Usually not. It’s a warning about airflow, most often from lint in the screen or vent, a crushed hose, or a blocked outside hood.
Will an appliance repair tech clean my dryer vent?
Not usually. Whirlpool notes that cleaning the home’s vent system isn’t covered by warranty or done by its appliance technicians and may need a vent cleaning professional.
Related guides
- How often should you clean your dryer vent?
- Signs your dryer vent is clogged
- Cleaning your dryer vent yourself vs. hiring a pro
- Dryer vent smells, birds and animals
- How much dryer vent cleaning costs
- Dryer vent replacement
- Roof-vented dryers in Vermont
Sources
- Whirlpool: Check Vent Light on Dryer
- Whirlpool: AF or “Check Vent” error code
- Maytag: AF or “Check Vent” error code
- Samsung: Meaning of icons on your Samsung dryer
- LG: Flow Sense d80, d90, d95 codes
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Overheated Clothes Dryers Can Cause Fires
Check vent light won’t go away?
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