3 Tips to Help You Prevent Your Dryer From Catching on Fire

Have you noticed a smoky smell coming from your clothes after you’ve removed them from your dryer? If you answered yes, your dryer may be on the verge of causing a fire and in need of appliance repair. Improper ventilation, lack of cleaning, and over-packing are some of the most common elements that lead to an appliance overheating. According to Statistics estimated by the National Fire Protection Association, in 2010 there were 16,800 fires that started in a dryer or washing machine. Out of 16,800 fires, 92% of them were in clothes dryers. While the structural damage from these fires can be dire, the true devastation comes from the 380 injuries and the 51 deaths that occurred from fires that originated in dryers. Below are 3 tips that can prevent your dryer from overheating and causing a fire.

Improper ventilation due to lint buildup

Even when you thoroughly clean the lint from your lint trap, small particles can cause your vent ducts to become clogged. A vent that is blocked can turn into a serious hazard. The buildup of lint causes a decrease in airflow, which means the hot air that is supposed to escape from your vents becomes trapped inside your appliance. The intensity of the heat inside the dryer can lead to a substantial fire. It is imperative that you check and clean your vent ducts on a regular basis to prevent a fire from breaking out in your home.

The dangers of inadequate venting material

You may not realize it, but the material used to vent your dryer may be increasing your chances of a fire erupting. Dryer’s with vent hoses made out of white plastic or foil run a higher risk of becoming clogged. These materials are known for trapping lint more easily and should be replaced by rigid metal hoses, which do not accumulate as much lint.

Overloading the dryer

Stuffing your dryer full of clothes may not seem like a big deal, but in reality this simple act can be the cause of a fire. Overloading the appliance leads to excess lint, which translates into poor ventilation. Poor ventilation equals an overheating dryer which can turn into a fire hazard. Before using your dryer read the appliance manual to find out the maximum load size, and make sure to stay within those limits when you use the machine.

If you have noticed your dryer is overheating or it’s performance has begun to decline, please contact us, and we will send one of our trusty technicians to inspect and fix the problem.