Did you know that fires can occur when lint builds up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct? Lint can block the flow of air, cause excessive heat build-up that could result in a fire in some dryers. Here are 5 tips to help prevent dryer fires and keep your home and family safe:
1. Clean the lint trap before and after drying each load of clothes
If clothing is still damp at the end of a typical drying cycle or drying requires longer times than normal, this may be a sign that the lint filter or the exhaust duct is blocked.
2. Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct periodically
Check the outside dryer vent while the dryer is operating to make sure exhaust air is escaping. If it is not, the vent or the exhaust duct may be blocked. To remove a blockage in the exhaust path, it may be necessary to disconnect the exhaust duct from the dryer. Remember to reconnect the ducting to the dryer and outside vent before using the dryer again.
3. Clean behind the dryer, where lint can build up
Clean the interior of the dryer chassis periodically to minimize the amount of lint accumulation. Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter.
4. Check the venting system behind the dryer
Make sure it is not damaged, crushed or restricted. Most dryer manufacturers specify the use of a rigid or corrugated semi-rigid metal duct, which provides maximum airflow.
5. Take special care when drying clothes soiled with gasoline, cooking oils, cleaning agents, or finishing oils and stains
If possible, wash the clothing more than once to minimize the amount of volatile chemicals on the clothes and, preferably, hang the clothes to dry. If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that has a cool-down period at the end of the cycle. To prevent clothes from igniting after drying, do not leave the dried clothes in the dryer or piled in a laundry basket
Dundas Jafine is a leader in dryer safety accessories and offers homeowners
tools specifically designed to keep clothes dryers and ducts lint free and safe. For more information check out the ProClean Series Accessories.
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