The hidden dangers of dryer lint
Dryer lint is one of those things you see and think “Oh, I’ll clean it out later.” But you forget and it doesn’t happen. You’re busy and it’s understandable to forget something that seems like a small task; however, sometimes the smallest tasks can have the biggest impact. Here’s why cleaning out your dryer lint should become a regular habit of your routine.
When dryer lint is left behind, it begins to build up and will eventually cause a blockage in the vent. When lint meets a heating element or the open flame of a gas burner, the lint inside the dryer then ignites causing a fire that can cause irreparable internal damage to the dryer or worse – it can burn a whole house down.
What causes a dryer fire?
The most common cause of dryer fires is failure to clean out the lint trap or a clogged vent. This is such a simple way to prevent a big disaster. Below are seven tips on how to prevent a dryer fire.
Seven Tips On How To Prevent A Dryer Fire:
1. Get in the habit of cleaning out the lint filter after every load of laundry.
It might seem tedious, but once it becomes a habit, you won’t even realize you’re doing it.
2. Pay attention to your clothes.
If you find your clothes aren’t getting dry like they should, don’t assume the dryer is broken. Check the lint trap and make sure it’s clear and that a vent is not clogged. Most of the time, if your clothes are not getting dry, the vent is clogged.
3. Get regular servicing of the vent and hose.
Consider getting an annual servicing on your dryer to make sure it is working as expected. Check behind your dryer for lint build up. When getting it serviced, have a professional clean the interior of the dryer as well.
4. Keep the area around the dryer free of flammables.
Dryer lint is not the only flammable thing that should not be around your dryer. Make sure to clear cleaning products, baskets of clothing and boxes from around the dryer.
5. Do not overload the dryer.
We get it, you want to get as much laundry done as possible, but overloading your dryer can be a huge fire hazard. Overloading your dryer can also break it down causing the drum belt, spindle bearings and pulleys to break.
6. Try not to run the dryer when you are not home.
While it is convenient to throw your clothes in the dryer before leaving the house, it’s not a good idea. If a fire were to start and you were not home, you would have an even bigger problem on your hands.
7. Don’t trust the vent sensor on modern dryers.
Some newer dryers have sensors that notify when the vent is blocked; but, for the most part, it only notifies when it’s completely blocked, and fires can still happen when there is a partial block.
Keep you and your family safe by doing the little things like emptying out the lint trap. Another way to prevent fires is making sure your smoke detectors have been tested and are working properly. Accidents can’t always be prevented but keeping your home safe should be a top priority. And having the right home insurance should be a priority, too. Our local agents are ready to get you a free homeowners quote – call today!