Clothes dryers pose a major fire hazard in homes. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, over 3000 clothes dryer fires are reported across the country every year. A lint-clogged dryer starts this fire hazard in your system. As a result, the dryer can overheat and catch fire.
However, if you are searching for an answer for “How to avoid a fire hazard when using your clothes dryer”, then read this blog further.
How To Prevent Dryer Fires Or Dryer Sheets Fire Hazard?
There are various steps you can take to prevent clothes dryer fires. Learn here some tips to avoid the chances of the dryer catching fire.
Avoid Attaching A Dryer Vent Screen
Do you usually place a screen over the exterior vent opening to prevent birds and other creatures from nesting inside? Never do this. Covering the exterior dryer vent with a screen is risky and encourages lint buildup. It is also necessary to clean the dryer lint trap slot.
So, how can you safely keep the vent covered? Follow the tips below.
♦ Use A Louvered Tent
Louvered tents typically have single-hinged flaps or multiple horizontal flaps. These flaps remain closed until the air from the dryer duct makes them open.
The flaps ensure that air flows freely inside the vent and, at the same time, keep small animals and birds from accessing the opening. The vents keep cold air in during summer and out in winter.
♦ Use A Recessed Dryer Vent Box
You can use a recessed vent box to save space and safely vent the dryer inside the laundry room. The vent box is usually installed into the wall while the hose is left undisturbed inside. This installation ensures that the dryer is pushed to the back against the wall but does not constrict airflow inside the hose. The result? You will save time, and the vents will be unrestricted and safe.
♦ Inspect the Exhaust Vent Pipe
One of the most common causes of dryer fires is clogged vent hoses. When lint accumulates in the hose, it restricts airflow and makes the dryer vent overheat. This increases the risk of fires.
Clean the exhaust vent regularly to ensure that air can escape properly. If the vent is clogged, disconnect the pipe and clean it. Avoid using the dryer until you have connected the vent pipe.
♦ Avoid Installing an According-Style Vent Hose
Avoid the use of according-style vent hoses. These hoses have tiny ridges and bumps over their entire length, which make them suitable hosts for trapping and holding lint into the exterior.
Use other better and safer options for your dryer vent duct instead of accordion-style vents. There are many different types of dryer vent tubing available.
♦ Install a Rigid Metal Vent
Ideally, you should install a metal vent for your dryer. The smooth interior of metal ducts makes it difficult for lint to attach and build up. During installation, make sure you use metal duct tape instead of screws as the latter are known to catch lint.
♦ Choose a Ventless Dryer
Want a clothes dryer but are concerned about potential fires in the future? If so, your best option would be to get a ventless dryer. This type of dryer recycles hot air instead of extracting it out. Therefore, it is more efficient than a vented dryer.
Is It Time To Clean The Dryer? Contact ABC Home Services Today!
Our team has years of experience in cleaning dryer vents and knows the best models that would be suitable for your budget. Do not gamble with the health and safety of your family at home. Get a dryer vent with a proven safety record and that will work to optimum levels.