Dryer Vents Can Be A Fire Hazard

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

If you experience a fire caused by a dryer, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are nearly 17,000 reported home clothes dryer fires every year. The fires caused by dryers results in around 51 deaths, 380 injuries and $236 million in property loss. The leading cause of these fires is failure to clean dryer vents. Follow these tips below to prevent a potential dryer fire in your home.

Signs Of A Clogged Dryer

• A musty odor on the clothes following the drying cycle.
• Clothes unusually seeming too hot to touch.
• Excessive heat in the room where the washer and dryer are located.
• The dryer vent flap doesn't open properly when using the dryer.
• Debris on the outside dryer vent opening.
• Large amount of lint build up in the lint trap after each cycle.
• Odor from dryer sheets used in each cycle.

How To Prevent A Dryer Fire

• Read the manufacturers' instructions and warning before installing. Have your dryer installed by a knowledgeable professional and ensure that the correct electrical plugs an outlets are used.
• Clean out the dryer lint filter before and after each load of laundry.
• Clean the filter with a nylon brush at least once every 6 months or more if it becomes clogged.
• Clean the lint out of the vent pipe every 3 months.
• Occasionally check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure it is not damaged.
• Put a cover on outside wall dampers.
• Make sure the outdoor vent cover is open when the dryer is on.