Dryer lint fires cause thousands of fires annually. But how do you prevent these clothes dryer fires? Learn more about dryer lint fire prevention and the proper way to maintain your washer and dryer
Doing laundry is pretty mundane. Whichever day is laundry day in your household, it follows the same basic routine. Once the wash cycle is through, flipping the laundry to the dryer comes next. But there's an aspect of dryers that people need to be aware of: the lint catcher. You can unwittingly start a dryer lint fire if you're not careful. These clothes dryer fires are surprising and emphasize the need for good maintenance, vigilance, and fire safety.
What are the best ways to prevent a dryer lint fire? Let's find out.
Grease fires, creosote buildup, and unattended space heaters are often leading causes of house fires. However, clothes dryer fires are prevalent, too.
"2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss...Failure to clean the dryer (34 percent) is the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires...More home clothes dryer fires occur in the fall and winter months, peaking in January."
While we're focusing primarily on the dryer and its hazards, it doesn't mean that washers can't cause fires, too. Along with possible water damage, washing machine fires are common. They occur for a few reasons.
Wear and tear can present many issues with any household appliance, from simply not working anymore to coating your home in harmful soot.
In short, treat your washer like any other home electrical appliance. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets, and schedule an annual washer maintenance check with a professional.
It comes as no surprise that dryer lint causes these household fires. Or, rather, not regularly cleaning or checking the lint catcher and dryer duct. Poor maintenance alone
Likewise, using a dryer without a lint catcher or a damaged filter can increase the fire risk.
Dryer lint fires are easily preventable. Here are some simple ways to prevent any potential clothing dryer fires.
Doing things yourself can be a rewarding endeavor. However, having a professional familiar with the proper wiring, installation process, and more is crucial to your safety. You can't afford to cut corners with heavy-duty equipment like your washer and dryer.
The same goes for washer installation. If your washer isn't properly grounded, it can leave you at risk for flooding and fire.
You must read the manuals that come with your dryer. They will provide specific safety information regarding your dryer.
You should clean the lint catcher after and before every load of clothes to limit the chance of fire. Now and then, ensure you're giving the filter a detailed cleaning. This in-depth cleaning prevents clogging and lint buildup.
However, simply cleaning the lint filter in your dryer won't cut it; you must also clean the duct.
You must pay attention to the dryer duct and clean it every few months. When cleaning, see if the dryer vent airflow is obstructed by anything that could pose a danger in the future.
Although many fires center around lint, ducts, and maintenance, it's important to be mindful of your clothing before putting in a load. For example, having chemicals, oils, and other flammable materials covering clothing is a massive fire hazard. Instead of doing a normal laundry cycle with these soiled clothes, wash them and hang them to dry.
Overloading your dryer with clothing is both inefficient and potentially dangerous. The dryer doesn't work as efficiently when you cram your dryer full of clothing rather than splitting it into manageable portions.
By that same token, it makes your dryer work harder. It's a strain on the dryer's motor, which can present a fire hazard.
If you're looking to prevent fires and clean up fire damage in the Inland Empire, Five Star Restoration has you covered.
Since 2016, Murrieta home repair and reconstruction experts at Five Star Restoration have made it their mission to help homeowners protect their properties.
Whether an unexpected ceiling leak, unchecked mold, or severe damage in the wake of a wildfire, Five Star Restoration aims to help clients thrive.
Through education, assistance, and a general sense of community, we help clients stay safe and rebuild their lives.
For more information, give us a call at 951-368-2227!
If you are not sure your location is in the areas we cover, or if you'd just like to chat or ask a question, give us a call.
We are committed to an excellent finished product and even better customer service. Rest assured that when we show up for your restoration needs, you'll be informed, confident and stress-free.
