Clean your Dryer Vents

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

A clothes dryer is one of those household conveniences most of us can’t imagine living without. But, if you’re not taking a few simple steps to ensure your dryer is safer, the machine could become a veritable tinder box.

Dryer lint is extremely flammable and if you’re not keeping your dryer clean and well-ventilated, you’re putting your home and yourself at risk.

According to FEMA 2,900 home dryer fires are reported yearly. Those fires cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries and $35 million in property damage each year.

FEMA says 34% of those fires are caused by failure to properly clean the dryer.

Luckily there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent dryer fires.

FEMA advises:

• Have the dryer installed by a professional in the first place.
• Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry and in between cycles, if it needs to run more than once.
• Clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe once every three months.
• If it’s taking longer than normal for clothes to dry, have a professional inspect it.
• Ensure the venting system behind the dryer is connected and un-damaged.
• Check regularly to make sure things like animal nests are not blocking the outside vent.
• Keep anything flammable away from the dryer.
• Do not leave the dryer running when you leave home or go to bed.

Something as small as a little bit of lint can be easy to overlook, but it can also have big consequences if you do.

So please keep your dryer clean and your home safe!

And should you experience a fire of any kind, remember, we are here to help with cleaning, recovery and reconstruction. Simply give SERVPRO of Brown County a call at 920-434-8224.