This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Dryer Vent Warning Signs: Does Your Dryer Pose a Fire Hazard?

Clogged Dryers Start Fires! There are over 15,500 dryer fires ever year!


Is your Dryer Vent Safe? Here are Potential Dangers of Dryer Vents

Are you noticing any of the following warning signs?

  • Slow dry time?
  • Dryer shutting off before cycle has ended?
  • Flapper vent not opening when dryer is on?
  • Burning smell?
  • Dusty laundry area?
  • Wet or damp clothes after cycle has finished?
  • All of these signs are indicators of a lack of airflow due to lint build up.  Lack of maintenance is the leading cause of dryer fires, and lint is the leading material to ignite. Dryer fires can be caused by insufficient airflow and lint build-up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct. Reduced airflow and lint build-up cause overheating of the exhaust environment, demanding excessive cycling of the high temperature limits switch and eventual failure. Overheated clothes dryers can cause fires. Fires can spread to the wall or other combustible materials through the plastic hose melting and the lint inside igniting.

    Find out what's happening in Woodbury-Middleburywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

    The use of proper venting materials is the first step to ensure safe and efficient dryer operation. Avoid flexible plastic venting material which is combustible. To achieve optimal air-flow and reduce lint build-up use the shortest distance with all-metal dryer venting material.

     

    Find out what's happening in Woodbury-Middleburywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

    Are you noticing any of the following warning signs?

    If you would like more information or have any questions regarding the safety of your dryer vent contact Stephen Braun, owner/operator of Brauny Home Services, at steve@braunyhomeservices.com.

    We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

    The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?