Some people never give it another thought. They just washed a load, put the clothing into the dryer, select the drying time and head out the door. If you’ve ever done this, appliance repair experts and firefighters want you to think again. According to Consumer Reports, more than 14,630 house fires a year are caused by clothes dryers. These fires have resulted in fatalities, injuries and millions of dollars in property damage annually. Appliance repair technicians are sharing safety tips on how to prevent dryer fires.
Clean the Lint Filter Regularly
The lint filter seems like such a harmless element of any clothes dryer. However, this small mesh screen needs regular attention. Every time you use the dryer, ensure the lint filter has been cleaned. Lint buildup can pose a fire threat. The flammable accumulation restricts airflow and can cause the dryer to overheat. The buildup can also travel into the dryer vent hose, where heat, sparks or heating components can cause a fire.
Appliance experts recommend removing buildup from the lint screen (with your hand) and vacuuming the lint filter housing. An effective way to do this is to use the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner.
Don’t Forget to Clean the Dryer Duct
Another important component of your dryer is the dryer duct, which should be cleaned annually. You can check for a clogged dryer duct by going outside when you’re drying a load. Look at the outdoor vent hood. Many homeowners have the louvered style. If you can’t “see” or feel the exhaust air going out the louvre flaps, the vent or exhaust duct may be blocked with lint.
If you don’t have experience disconnecting the duct from the dryer and vacuuming its interior, then a licensed appliance technician can perform this task.
Laundry Chemical Stains Need Extra Care
Another tip to prevent dryer fires is to be mindful of clothing stained with gas, cleaning agents, cooking oil or flammable chemicals. These articles of clothing should be washed more than once and then hung to dry. If you need to use the dryer, select the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that ends with a cool-down period.
Firefighters advise that if a fire were to break out, keep the dryer door closed to limit its oxygen supply. Stop the dryer immediately if you can, and call 911. Then, evacuate the home.
Maintain an Uncluttered Laundry Space
Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, such as boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing. As mentioned at the top, turn the dryer off if you leave the home. Lastly, never run the dryer when you’ve gone to bed. If you have concerns or require dryer services, contact Signature Appliance in Chattanooga, TN.
