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Top 3 Signs Your Dryer Has Become a Fire Hazard
Top 3 Signs Your Dryer Has Become a Fire Hazard
When your dryer gets the job done, it can be easily taken for granted. But what can turn a dryer into a fire hazard? It’s easier than you might think.
The terrifying statistics are rather clear. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 15,970 home fires were started by washers and dryers between 2010 and 2014 (92% of those being caused by dryers). In those fires, 13 people perished and 440 people were injured in addition to $238 million in total damages.
So how can you tell if your dryer represents a fire hazard in your home? Below are three of the most common causes of dryer fires.
1. Dirty and Clogged Vents
Have you ever put your washed clothes into the dryer, turned it on, and returned an hour later to find that your clothes were still damp? The problem could lie with sensors, but the more likely problem is that your dryer vent is clogged with lint.
Dryers work by utilizing heated air to remove moisture from clean clothing. This moist air exits the dryer through the vent and outside the home after passing through a dryer vent that catches lint. When this vent becomes clogged with lint, the heated air can no longer pass through. As lint collects more and more in the vent, it can come into contact with the dryer’s heating or electrical system and catch fire.
If your clothes aren’t drying or feel unusually hot, clean your vent right away; this should be done every six months.
2. No Lint Screen/Clogged Lint Screen
The single most important thing to do before you put in a load of laundry is to clean your dryer’s lint screen. In a way, the lint screen is your first line of defense against dryer fires (not to mention a vital component of your dryer’s proper function).
Fortunately, your lint screen has a way of alerting you to clean it: your dryer’s efficiency will drop significantly within only two to three uses. Continued use without cleaning the screen (or worse, having no lint screen) will have the same effect as a clogged vent. Unfortunately, lint is amazingly flammable, and regular cleaning should never be neglected.
3. Your Dryer Has Aged Beyond Safe Use
Like any household appliance, dryers have a limited lifetime. Regular wear and tear will eventually cause your dryer to break down. From the wiring to the rotating drum, a dryer on its last legs is guaranteed to present a greater risk of fire than a brand-new machine.
If your dryer fails to dry your laundry, even with all vents cleared and possible maintenance done, consider upgrading your appliance sooner rather than later.
Avoid Fire Hazard Risks with Brand New Vents From Ziggurat Products
The best way to protect your home from dryer fires is to ensure the installation of new and reliable parts. Shop today with Ziggurat Products for industry-leading vents and accessories. If you are looking for the right items or have any questions, feel free to contact us. Shop with confidence with Ziggurat Products!
When your dryer gets the job done, it can be easily taken for granted. But what can turn a dryer into a fire hazard? It’s easier than you might think.
The terrifying statistics are rather clear. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 15,970 home fires were started by washers and dryers between 2010 and 2014 (92% of those being caused by dryers). In those fires, 13 people perished and 440 people were injured in addition to $238 million in total damages.
So how can you tell if your dryer represents a fire hazard in your home? Below are three of the most common causes of dryer fires.
1. Dirty and Clogged Vents
Have you ever put your washed clothes into the dryer, turned it on, and returned an hour later to find that your clothes were still damp? The problem could lie with sensors, but the more likely problem is that your dryer vent is clogged with lint.
Dryers work by utilizing heated air to remove moisture from clean clothing. This moist air exits the dryer through the vent and outside the home after passing through a dryer vent that catches lint. When this vent becomes clogged with lint, the heated air can no longer pass through. As lint collects more and more in the vent, it can come into contact with the dryer’s heating or electrical system and catch fire.
If your clothes aren’t drying or feel unusually hot, clean your vent right away; this should be done every six months.
2. No Lint Screen/Clogged Lint Screen
The single most important thing to do before you put in a load of laundry is to clean your dryer’s lint screen. In a way, the lint screen is your first line of defense against dryer fires (not to mention a vital component of your dryer’s proper function).
Fortunately, your lint screen has a way of alerting you to clean it: your dryer’s efficiency will drop significantly within only two to three uses. Continued use without cleaning the screen (or worse, having no lint screen) will have the same effect as a clogged vent. Unfortunately, lint is amazingly flammable, and regular cleaning should never be neglected.
3. Your Dryer Has Aged Beyond Safe Use
Like any household appliance, dryers have a limited lifetime. Regular wear and tear will eventually cause your dryer to break down. From the wiring to the rotating drum, a dryer on its last legs is guaranteed to present a greater risk of fire than a brand-new machine.
If your dryer fails to dry your laundry, even with all vents cleared and possible maintenance done, consider upgrading your appliance sooner rather than later.
Avoid Fire Hazard Risks with Brand New Vents From Ziggurat Products
The best way to protect your home from dryer fires is to ensure the installation of new and reliable parts. Shop today with Ziggurat Products for industry-leading vents and accessories. If you are looking for the right items or have any questions, feel free to contact us. Shop with confidence with Ziggurat Products!