You Can Prevent Dryer Fires

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Dryer fires make up a large number of fires each year.

You Can Prevent Dryer Fires 

Do you remember the last time you cleaned out your lint filter on your dryer? What about the exhaust vent or dryer duct? Hopefully, it was recently. There are several ways your dryer can become a potential hazard, and unfortunately, dryer fires make up a large number of fires each year. You can easily avoid a dryer fire with a few simple steps and preventative maintenance. Below we discuss the most common causes of dryer fires and how you can easily prevent them. 

Causes of Dryer Fires 

Mechanical and Electrical Failure: 

Like anything with moving parts and electronic components, faulty wiring and damaged machinery can potentially start a dryer fire in your home. You should have these parts regularly checked and repaired if necessary. 

Improper Use: 

If you are using your dryer outside of the manufacturer's recommended guidelines, you could be in danger of starting a dryer fire in your home. You should never place items made out of plastic, rubber, foam or any items with instructions advising against drying with heat. You should also avoid overstuffing the dryer. 

Dirty Lint Filters and Vents:

Clogged vents, ducts, and filters are the number one cause of dryer fires. Usually, this results from a buildup of lint, but a fire can start due to an accumulation of dirt, grass, or anything that remains after going through the washer. The outside filter can also be clogged, which restricts airflow and leads to hazardous conditions. 

How To Prevent Dryer Fires

Make Sure Your Dryer Is Properly Installed: 

If you do not install your dryer correctly, it can lead to a plethora of complications or a fire. Many stores offer in-home installation; always take advantage of that whenever possible. 

You need to plug your dryer into a 240-volt electrical outlet. Plugging a dryer into a 120-volt outlet could cause several problems. You need to make sure the ventilation duct is attached securely to the dryer and to the exterior exhaust vent. When placing your dryer in your home, make sure it is not too close to other appliances or shelves. 

Clean The Lint Filter After Each Use: 

Heat can build up in a dryer if there is not adequate or proper airflow. The lint filter is the primary place blockages occur. When you don't clean the lint out of the filter, lint builds up in the filter and creates a tinder bundle that can cause a fire. Always clean the lint filter out after every load of laundry. 

Clean The Vent and Duct: 

Over time lint can sneak past the lint filter and build up inside the duct between the dryer and exterior vent outside your home. If you notice your clothes are taking longer to dry or they aren't drying completely, you may have an obstruction in your venting system. Additionally, if you smell a burning smell coming from your dryer or if you notice that your clothes and the outside of the dryer are too hot, stop the dryer immediately, unplug the dryer and check the duct and vent after they have had a chance to cool down. It is recommended you clean the dryer duct once every three months. You should regularly check your outside vent for clogs or other obstructions. 

Use Your Dryer Correctly: 

Pay close attention to product labels and instructions for washing a drying. Not only could you ruin the item, but you could cause a fire. Your clothes that are soiled with flammable compounds like gas, oil, or alcohol do not need to go in the dryer, as the heat can set them on fire. Wash them multiple times in the washer and then dry them on a clothesline or drying rack. Finally, never run your dryer while you are sleeping or are out of the house. 

If your dryer starts a fire in your home - don't panic! After the first responders leave, call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855 - 3993. We will make it "Like it never even happened."