Dryers are one of the most commonly used appliances in American homes. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryers are responsible for an average of 15,000 fires per year, resulting in 5 deaths, 100 injuries and over $100 million in property damage. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips on how to prevent a dryer fire from happening in your home.
One of the best ways to prevent a dryer fire is to have your dryer vent cleaned on a regular basis. Lint and other debris can build up in the dryer vent over time, causing a blockage. This blockage can cause the dryer to overheat, which can lead to a fire. In order to keep your dryer vent clean, you should have it cleaned by a professional at least once a year.
Another way to prevent a dryer fire is to perform routine maintenance on your dryer as you use it. This includes making sure that the lint screen is clear of lint after each use, that the transition hose in the back is not crimped and that the exterior vent cover isn't blocked. And FYI... You should also clean the dryer’s drum on a regular basis.
Also (and we can't stress this enough) PLEASE do not overload your dryer! When you overload your dryer, it has to work harder to dry the clothes, which can lead to overheating. We recommend splitting large loads whenever possible. You can also use dryer sheets to help lessen a dryer fire risk. Many people don't know that dryer sheets actually help to reduce the static electricity that builds up in clothes, which can also lead to a fire.
There are a few other dryer fire risks that you should be aware of. One is using an extension cord to power your dryer. You should never power a dryer this way. Also leaving your dryer running when you leave the house is a "no-no" for two reasons: first, if there is a fire, you won’t be there to stop it; and second, if the dryer is running when the clothes are already dry and doesn't need to be, it is using electricity, which can add up over time.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent a dryer fire from happening in your home. Remember, dryers are one of the leading causes of house fires, so it is important to be aware of the risks and take steps to prevent a fire from occurring. If you have any questions about dryer safety, or if you would like to schedule a dryer vent cleaning, please contact us today. We would be happy to help you keep your home safe from fire hazards!
Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post! We hope that it has been helpful in teaching you some of the ways you can prevent a dryer fire!
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