Washer/Dryer Safety Tips!
The Brian Worrell Team, Realtors has seen lots of home issues and many inspection reports in Galveston and Harris Counties. Is it important to maintain dryer vents? Only if you don't want your house to burn down!! I'm not an inspector or fire expert, but I've seen and heard many stories of fires that didn't come from the kitchen! Here are a few tips to help avoid a fire.
•The leading cause of home clothes washer and dryer fires is failure to clean them.
• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter. Clean the lint filter before or after each use. Remove accumulated lint around the drum.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating.
• Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a professional to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
• Avoid overloading a washing machine or dryer. Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
• Do not leave a dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed.
• Washing machines and dryers should be properly grounded.
• Never dry items that have come in contact with flammable substances, such as cooking oil, gasoline, paint thinner or alcohol.
• Keep the dryer area clear of things that can burn, such as boxes or clothing.
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