Did you know there are over 2,900 homes fires each year caused by dryers? And that there is an increase during the fall and winter months? It is during these cooler months when we wash heavier items like blankets that create more lint.
Here are some dryer maintenance tips to help you prevent a dryer fire:
- Clean the lint trap after and/or before every load. This may be located inside the dryer or at the top, check your owner’s manual if you are not sure where this is located on your appliance.
- About two times a year you should perform a cleaning of the exhaust vent. Before doing this, UNPLUG the dryer and if gas fueled, turn off the gas line to the appliance.
- Detach the exhaust vent from the back of your dryer (the silver tube that comes out the back of your dryer and vents to the outside). You can use tools sold at a local hardware store designed to clean these vents out or use a ShopVac to clear the lint that is inside. Be sure to reattach the exhaust vent correctly before using the appliance.
- Clean and inspect the vent on the outside of the house. The flaps should open when the dryer is running and are not blocked.
CHECK OUT THIS HELPFUL VIDEO FROM LOWE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT THAT SHOWS HOW TO CLEAN THE EXHAUST VENT:
By cleaning the exhaust vent and the lint trap you will minimize the amount of lint build up which allows for better air flow for the appliance.
