Unexpected Fire Hazards: Part 1 - The Ticking Time Bomb in Your Laundry Room

What would we do without our clothes dryer? It's just so convenient, yet many of us take it for granted, and forget about it once we are done using it. This neglect can cause your home's dryer to become a hidden fire hazard! That's right, the very appliance that keeps your clothes warm and fluffy can also be a source of serious danger if not properly maintained.

This is the first installment in our series, "Unexpected Fire Hazards," where we'll delve into the everyday items and situations that can pose a fire risk. Today, we're focusing on one of the leading causes of home fires in the USA: dirty dryer vents.

The Silent Threat: Lint Buildup

Think about it, every time you dry a load of laundry, lint is produced. This lint is light and fluffy, and while your dryer's lint trap catches some, lint will still escape and accumulate in the dryer vent. Over time, this buildup can become significant, and even clog your dryer vent. Creating a perfect situation for a fire.

Why Dryer Vents Start Fires

The accumulated lint in your dryer vent acts as a highly flammable fuel source. The lint buildup also will begin to restrict the airflow, causing your dryer to work harder and generate more heat. (This also can cause your energy bill to increase too!) The trapped heat can then ignite the lint, leading to a fire. Which will quickly spread through the vent and into your home. 

The Fire Department's Recommendation: Annual Inspections and Cleanings

US Fire Departments respond to around 13,820 home fires caused by clothes dryers a year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Because of this Fire departments across the country strongly recommend having your dryer vents inspected and cleaned if needed annually. This simple maintenance task can significantly reduce the risk of a dryer fire.

Signs Your Dryer Vent Needs Cleaning:

  • Your clothes take longer than usual to dry.

  • You notice a burning smell while the dryer is running. If you notice this, stop the dryer immediately!

  • Higher energy bills than usual.

  • Laundry is still wet after completing a cycle

  • The dryer vent hood flap doesn't open properly.

  • You notice lint accumulation around the outside vent.

  • You haven't had yours cleaned in over a year.

The Added Bonus: Energy Savings

Cleaning your dryer vent can also help you save money on your energy bills. A clean vent allows your dryer to operate more efficiently, reducing drying time and energy consumption. This translates to lower utility bills.

Tips to Keep Your Home Safe:

  • Clean your lint trap after every load.

  • Know where your vent exits too, and make sure it is not blocked.

  • Have your vent inspected with a camera to ensure it is in good working order. With no blockages, parts crushed, detached, and/or protrusions through it.

  • Schedule an annual professional dryer vent cleaning.

Don't let your dryer become a fire hazard. Take the necessary steps to keep your home safe and your energy bills low. Stay tuned for the next installment of our "Unexpected Fire Hazards" series, where we'll explore another common household risk.

Remember: Prevention is key. A clean dryer vent is a safe dryer vent. If you are in the Greater Phoenix (AZ) area and need an inspection or cleaning. Give us a call at (480) 813-9494, or send us a work request HERE.

Fire Safety, Healthy Home TipsJoe FilterDryer Vent CleaningComment