FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2022
Clothes dryers cause numerous fires every year. These fires start for various reasons. They can be due to an electrical malfunction. More commonly, they are due to poor maintenance.
Your home insurance will not cover damage related to poor maintenance. It also does not cover damage related to normal wear and tear. For this reason, homeowners need to be vigilant about maintaining their dryer. When you do, you reduce the risk of a fire occurring.
Know the Risks
Besides fire risks, dryers can also cause risks related to carbon monoxide poisoning. If the vent on the dryer fails, this might allow these dangerous gasses to enter into the home. They are odorless. They have no type of warning. However, this can be very dangerous and life-threatening. Fires are also a risk. The link coming from the dryer is very combustible material. This means it can quickly catch on fire especially when conditions are very dry.
How to Minimize Risks
There are several steps to take to ensure your dryer is safe. Call a professional out to handle any type of repairs and preventative maintenance. This is important to do on an annual basis. The professional will ensure the system is working properly. Here are some steps you can do yourself.
- Clean the lint trap with every load you run. This is one of the most important tools for catching that combustible material.
- Lint can also build up within the clothes dryer. Those who are handy can remove a panel to expose the drum. Around it, lint and debris buildup, putting the home at risk. Have a professional take care of this if possible.
- Be sure the dryer vent is properly attached. You do not want it to have too many bends. You also want to ensure it fits securely on the exterior wall vent and on the dryer itself.
- Be sure there is ample space between the dryer and the wall. This minimizes risk to the vent. It also improves airflow in this area.
- Keep the space clean. You do not want to overcrowd the dryer area with debris, clothing, or other items.
Take these steps to reduce the risk of a fire. In some cases, you cannot prevent them. An electrical fire is one example. Here, your home insurance may offer some help to recover the damages from a sudden, unpreventable loss.
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