A 2012 report by the U.S. Fire Administration found there are nearly 3,000 dryer-caused house fires each year. The leading cause? Failure to maintain a clean dryer!
There are some important steps to take to maintain a safe and functional dryer. Not only will the below tips keep your dryer safe, but they will also reduce drying time (and your electric bill!)
“Is my dryer running properly?”
- Keep an eye on drying time. If you notice your laundry is taking longer than usual to dry, or if you need to run multiple cycles to dry a load of laundry, it is likely you have an airflow restriction.
- Check your exterior vent. Step outside to where your dryer vents to the exterior of your home. You should feel air flowing freely during a drying cycle. If you do not feel air flow, there is an airflow restriction in your dryer.
So, how do you keep your dryer safe and running efficiently? Read on for tips to maintain a safe, healthy dryer.
- Clean the lint screen. The lint screen should be cleaned after each use.
- Clean the dryer’s interior. Every six months to a year, vacuum any accumulated lint inside the dryer, especially around and inside the lint filter area. Be sure to unplug your dryer prior to vacuuming.
- Clean the dryer ducts. At least once a year, disconnect the venting behind your dryer and remove any accumulated dust and lint. Be sure to clean the ductwork all the way through the wall/roof. There are local professionals who specialize in duct cleaning. If you are unable to clean your ducts, call a professional.
- Replace ducts. Replacement ductwork is inexpensive and readily available. Instead of cleaning, replacing the ductwork is a quick option to improve airflow.
- Ensure your dryer vents to exterior. Your dryer should vent to the exterior of your home. If your dryer vents to your attic or an interior space, call a professional to reroute your dryer vent.
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