Every year across the nation, roughly 13,820 home fires are reported to have been caused by dryers. These fires annually lead to seven deaths, over 344 injuries, and $233 million in property damage. Of these fires, 27 percent are caused by a buildup of lint within the dryer’s vent system, which leads to combustion and later a home fire. Save your home and your loved ones from the risk of a fire. The Air Duct Cleaning Experts of Chandler are here to provide you with some tips and tricks that will keep your dryer vents clean and unobstructed.
- Schedule Annual Dryer Vent Cleanings
Booking a dryer vent cleaning at least once a year can effectively clean your vents of any built-up lint. Depending on the ductwork of your dryer, some vents can be difficult to access and clean out, in which you will need to hire a professional. A trained technician can eradicate your vents of clogs and blockages, saving you from the risk of a fire, while also improving the efficiency of your dryer.
Since an accumulation of lint can make it hard for heat to travel, blocked vents can lead to high monthly energy bills. Improve your safety and your energy usage when you book a yearly dryer vent cleaning. For peak efficiency, or for those with large households, scheduling cleanings even more frequently can be a great decision for your home.
2. Clean Your Lint Filter After Use
Dryers come with a lint screen that catches lint and prevents it from entering the ventilation system. Clean out this filter after every load of laundry. If this lint filter is not cleaned regularly, it can clog up, causing damage to your dryer and potentially causing a fire. Cleaning this filter is easy- simply scoop up the excess lint, throw it away, and slide your filter right back into its place. Easy-peasy!
3. Don’t Put Flammable Substances in The Dryer
Laundry that has been soaked in oil, gas, or other flammable substances must be washed thoroughly before being placed in a dryer. Even if there are just a few stains, douse it in soap and water several times. We recommend hand-washing these items beforehand but running them in a washing machine several times can also do the trick.
4. Prevent Items from Blocking Your Vents
The area around your dryer should be clean and unobstructed. If you notice boxes, clothes, cleaning supplies, or other items unnecessarily close to your unit or are blocking your ducts, remove them and place them elsewhere. Check on your outside vent as well. Sometimes toys, machinery, or debris can block this duct as well.
5. Keep an Eye Out for Warning Signs
Learning and becoming aware of these warning signs can prevent a home fire from happening:
- Something in your laundry room smells like it’s burning
- Your laundry smells musty and moldy after a cycle
- Your laundry is unusually hot to the touch
- The laundry room feels warmer than normal
- You find yourself having to run multiple cycles for your clothes to dry properly
After noticing these signs, unplug your dryer and contact a professional. Usually, a dryer vent cleaning will be able to solve these problems, but occasionally, additional repairs will be needed. Becoming aware of the dangers of dryer fires can save your home from damage and even potentially save your life! The Air Duct Cleaning Experts of Chandler want to keep you safe from harm. If you’re located in the Chandler, Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, or Gilbert area and in need of a dryer vent cleaning, give us a call! Our experts can quickly rush to your aid.
