You probably use your clothes dryer as much as any appliance in your home. While it’s easy to throw a load of laundry in the dryer and press Start, there are plenty of little-known facts about this important machine. Knowing more about your clothes dryer can help you use it safely and efficiently.
Dryers Can Create One of the Biggest Fire Risks in Your Home
The lint that builds up in your dryer isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s also a fire hazard that you should never ignore. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryers are responsible for thousands of residential fires each year, and the leading cause is failure to clean them properly.
Lint traps catch only a portion of the fibers shed during drying. Over time, lint also accumulates in the vent pipe and around the drum. If it comes into contact with the dryer’s heating element, it can easily ignite. Cleaning your dryer is a great way to protect your home.
Your Dryer Uses More Energy Than You Might Think
If you’re looking for ways to save on your monthly utility bills, your dryer is a great place to start. These machines are some of the highest energy consumers in a typical household — especially older models. Running multiple loads each week can significantly add to your monthly utility costs.
Newer ENERGY STAR–rated dryers use up to 20% less energy than older models. Even if you don’t want to invest in a new dryer, there are steps you can take to boost efficiency. Cleaning the lint trap after every cycle, using the moisture sensor setting, and drying only full loads can make a difference.
Fabric Type Impacts Drying Time More Than You Think
Many people assume that drying time is all about load size, but the type of fabric in the load is just as impactful. For instance, a load of towels will take longer to dry than a load of T-shirts.
Mixing heavy and light fabrics in one load often leads to uneven drying. Lighter items finish early and continue to tumble unnecessarily, while the heavier ones remain damp. This not only wastes energy but can also lead to excess wear on your clothes.
To save time and electricity, sort your loads of laundry by type of fabric in addition to color. You’ll not only improve drying performance, but you’ll also extend the life of your clothes.
We’re Here for All Your Appliance Needs
Every appliance in your home plays an important role in your daily activities. That’s why we’re happy to offer comprehensive appliance repair. When you need help with your washer or dryer in Chattanooga, TN, call our team at Signature Appliance.
