Maintaining your dryer and dryer vent system is of utmost importance to prevent dryer fires. The US Fire Administration lists clothing dryer fires as the cause of over 15,000 fires annually. Such fires cause structural damage, injuries, and around 15 deaths per year. "Failure to clean" is the leading contributor to clothes dryer fires. Proper dryer and dryer vent maintenance ensures your household will not fall victim to fires resulting from "failure to clean".
Here are some dryer vent maintenance tips:
The lint trap should be pulled and cleaned after each load of laundry
Residue can build up on the lint screen over time; it should be washed with soap and water about once a month
Avoid putting rags soaked with oil, gasoline or other combustible substances into the dryer, even if they have been washed
All flammable materials and liquids should be stored well away from the clothes dryer
Have your dryer professionally inspected and cleaned annually
Have a dryer vent specialist inspect your system to be sure it is up to state, local and manufacturer's codes.
Do not use vinyl or plastic material for your dryer ducts; use only semi-rigid or solid metal
Check the outside vent often to be sure it is not blocked or damaged
These tips are useful in preventing dryer fires and saving on energy costs. When your clothes dryer is working efficiently, and is properly maintained, it has less chance of breaking down. The cost of annual professional dryer vent cleaning is little compared to the damages suffered after a fire. The service fee will quickly pay for itself in energy savings and increasing the life of your clothes dryer.
Here are some dryer vent maintenance tips:
The lint trap should be pulled and cleaned after each load of laundry
Residue can build up on the lint screen over time; it should be washed with soap and water about once a month
Avoid putting rags soaked with oil, gasoline or other combustible substances into the dryer, even if they have been washed
All flammable materials and liquids should be stored well away from the clothes dryer
Have your dryer professionally inspected and cleaned annually
Have a dryer vent specialist inspect your system to be sure it is up to state, local and manufacturer's codes.
Do not use vinyl or plastic material for your dryer ducts; use only semi-rigid or solid metal
Check the outside vent often to be sure it is not blocked or damaged
These tips are useful in preventing dryer fires and saving on energy costs. When your clothes dryer is working efficiently, and is properly maintained, it has less chance of breaking down. The cost of annual professional dryer vent cleaning is little compared to the damages suffered after a fire. The service fee will quickly pay for itself in energy savings and increasing the life of your clothes dryer.
About the Author:
This article was written by Mory Matias, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard of Chicago, Il. Many people are not aware that annual dryer vent cleaning and maintenance is required to keep the dryer running efficiently and to prevent fires. Additionally, annual maintenance help conserve energy. Dryer Vent Wizard specializes in dryer vent cleaning, repair and installation.
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