Last Updated on August 10, 2022 by Gardens Home Management Services
Clothes dryer fires are one of the most common causes of household fires. Each year there are over 15,000 dryer fires, costing over $90,000,000 in damages. Lint buildup is the most the most common cause of fires. The average homeowner cleans the inside of the lint trap, but most do not think about cleaning the lint ducts. The average home or condo has more than 20 feet of ducts that run through the house to the outside access. Lint and debris build up over time restricting airflow. Vent system blockages cause the dryer motor to work harder and possibly overheat. The excessive heat can result in the ignition of trapped lint resulting in fires.
Higher energy bills are also the result of inefficient working dryers due to lint accumulation. One of the first signs of lint accumulation is the clothes take more than one cycle to dry. Often this is the first sign of a problem with a dryer venting system.
Important Dryer Safety Tips Include:
- Clean lint trap after every load of laundry.
- Never leave your home or sleep while the dryer is running.
- At least annually have your dryer vent ducts cleaned and inspected by a professional. Only a professional can clean the lint accumulated inside the ducts.
Another important aspect to look at is your rubber washing machine hoses. The rubber on these hoses gets old and can burst causing a flood in your home. To alleviate this issue you can install metal washing machine hoses That will not break and ensure you will not have a flood.
If you would like to have your dryer vents cleaned, please contact Gardens Home Management Services at 561-625-5700, email us at services@homecarepro.com or Request a Free Consultation.