In America, there are over 15,000 dyer fires a year. Failure to complete routine maintenance and inspections is a leading contributor in dryer fires across the nation.
Dryer vents clogged with dust, fiber, and lint are responsible for nearly 30% of all dryer fires, making it a top contributor to dryer fires. To reduce this risk, clean lint screens and traps before and after every use. Carefully wash lint screens with soap and water at least once a month to remove residue buildup from dryer sheets. Also, be sure your dryer vent system is up to code according to city, state, and manufacturer recommendations. Replace foil or plastic vents with vent made from semi-rigid or solid metal material. Check the path of the dryer vent. Be sure it is as straight and short as possible. This helps prevent buildup at the elbows of vent systems. Check out the outside hood of the venting system. Make sure it is free from blockages, freezing, or other damages. In addition to these actions, have the vent system and your dryer professionally inspected and cleaned seasonally.
To enhance dryer fire prevention methods, be sure to keep a working fire extinguisher that is designed for use in laundry rooms near the washer and dryer. Test and replace the batteries on all smoke detectors frequently. Do not store flammable or combustible materials near the dryer and refrain from drying clothing covered in such materials. Develop a fire safety/emergency plan for the family and rehearse it often.
Warning signs of Failing Ventilation or Lint Buildup:
•· Clothes take more than one cycle to dry, especially jeans and towels.
•· There is no lint visible on lint screen.
•· Dryer repeatedly stops during a cycle.
•· Clothes have a moldy smell after a dry cycle.
•· Clothes are very hot after a dry cycle.
This article was written by Chris Wiley, owner of Dryer Vent Wizard in Maricopa County, Arizona. http://www.dryerventwizard.com specializes in dryer vent cleaning, repair and alterations, and serves consumers in Dryer Vent Wizard services Maricopa County, Arizona including Anthem, Avondale, Buckeye, Desert Hills, El Mirage, Fountain Hills, Goodyear, Gilbert, Glendale, Litchfield Park, Circle City, Mesa, New River, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City, Surprise, Temple, Tolleson, Wittman, Youngtown and neighboring cities and communities.
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