Saturday, January 10, 2009

Dryer Vent Cleaning to Increase the Life of Your Clothes Dryer

By Mory Matias

Over 15,000 fires, caused by clothes dryers, are reported annually; most of these dryer fires are due to failure to clean the dryer duct and venting system. When lint is allowed to accumulate in the dryer ducts, air flow is restricted, causing overheating and making the dryer work harder to perform its job. Proper maintenance of the dryer vent system will greatly reduce the risk of fire and help to save on energy bills.

Some useful tips for properly maintaining dryer and dryer vent systems follow:

The lint trap should be pulled and cleaned after each load of laundry

Wash the lint screen with warm, soapy water, every month or two, to remove residue build-up caused by dryer sheets

Do not dry fabrics soaked in combustible substances, even if they have been washed; line drying is recommended

All flammable materials and liquids should be stored well away from the clothes dryer

Order professional dryer vent cleaning and maintenance at least once a year

Have your dryer duct and vent system inspected to be sure it is up to UL Safety Standards

Use only semi-rigid or solid metal material for venting systems

Frequently check outside vent cover for signs of blockage, freezing, or damage

Following these guidelines will ensure safety from a dryer fire and help to save on energy costs. When a clothes dryer runs efficiently, clothes dry quicker; therefore, the dryer is not overworking and consuming extra energy. Proper maintenance also helps to increase the life of your clothes dryer and prevents breakdowns. - 14915

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