Dryer vents have a very bad history of causing fires in homes. Thus, cleaning them correctly with the right air duct cleaning equipment is very necessary. Further, dryers have a narrow vent that helps remove the hot and moist air from homes. Sadly, many people neglect this part and do not pay much attention to it while cleaning. So, understanding and covering its needs is important. Or else, an exhausting vent can cause some severe problems. Keep reading to identify the dangers and threats of dryer vents.
Dangers of Dryer Link
If people quickly notice and instantly locate the issues behind dry times, then most of the fires will not even occur. For example, if the dryer suffers from a blocked vent, the lint will not get removed to the outdoors but form and accumulate inside the dryer vent itself. With time, the lint formed further builds another blockage inside the vent leading to excessive heat.
So, now, if this lint comes in contact with any heated element like a gas burner or flame, imagine the explosion it will cost. The lint in your vent can ignite very quickly and expand faster because of the trapped air. Further, after igniting, it extends and follows the entire path.
Many expert cleaners route the lint well before completing their cleaning process. It is because they understand the danger and house fire a lint can ignite. Also, even if the fire does not spread, the lint itself will miserably damage the vents and ducts’ internal parts.
How can you prevent a dryer fire?
Preventing a dryer fire is not very difficult. All you require is proper assistance and guidelines to get fine results.
Proper Installation
A dryer that is inappropriately installed is at a higher risk of fire. Thus, never experiment and always consider expert installations to keep your dryers safe.
Ensure all the wires and ducts are properly attached. So not leave any space for mishaps and accidents. Taking care of your dryer vents is very necessary.
Clean the lint screen
Dryers depend and function well when they get proper airflow. So, when a vent is blocked, it causes the formation of excessive heat. Further, the primary part that is susceptible to lint build-up is the filter. The lint filter collects the random particles and prevents them from entering the vents or causing blockages. Thus, if you do not clean this filter, there will be excessive lint formation and lead to a fire.
The most potent way is cleaning the filter after every use frequently. Do not let lint build up and put your life at risk. Instead, check on this crucial part regularly and help your machine function efficiently.
Clean your ducts and vents
You may be cleaning your filter regularly. However, that is not sufficient. You also need to ensure that your ducts and vents are clean at all times. Filthy ducts and vents also lead to lint accumulation. Thus, it is important to ensure proper cleaning of these parts.
So, if you notice any changes in your dryers working, for instance, your clothes take longer than usual to dry. Then recognize it is time for duct cleaning. Also, you may notice a burning smell or any other such indications of a damaged vent. Further, it is also suggested that you clean the ducts once in three months for better safety.
Replace the ducts
Some ducts are plastic-made and easily flammable. Further, many ducts have foils and other folds that trap scraps. Thus, ensure you take care and replace ducts when needed.
Also, ensure you use a duct that meets all guidelines and needs to get accurate results. Not just cleaning but also keeping your ducts in place is necessary.
Take an inspection
Electric dryers are not prone to catching fires. However, gas dryers have gas lines. Thus, it is vital to check and ensure every fitting is in place. Also, inspecting leaks and other issues is a must for proper safety. Further, to be safe, you can also take up a regular professional check-up for best outcomes.
Correct Use
Using a dryer can make your laundry simple. However, that does not make the machine suitable for all uses. Further, you may also risk a fire in some instances if you are not using it properly. Thus, it is important to check on the instructions and labels to get fine results.
Also, incorrect use can ruin your machine and instantly catch fire. So, ensure you are using the machine as mentioned and not experimenting. Also, prevent adding flammable substances like oil into the dryer to wash your clothes. Instead, use suitable chemicals and softeners to get fine results.
Conclusion
Dryer lint accumulation is certainly very dangerous for your residence. Thus, ensure you keep it away at all times. Take all preventions, and do not let any lint build up in your vents to keep your homes safe.