To prevent a lethal laundry room, replace flexible white vinyl dryer tubing with aluminum tubing, which meets federal fire safety standards. Clean the dryer venting system at least once a year from inside the dryer to the outside vent cap; you can use this 20-foot cleaning brush to remove lint. Regularly clean the interior of the dryer, focusing on the motor and heat source, with a long vacuum hose attachment to prevent fire risks from lint buildup. Also, monitor drying times and consider using a Lint Alert for potential airflow restrictions, as recommended by Consumer Reports, and always ensure your smoke detectors are tested periodically.
During this busy holiday season, it’s important to take steps to keep your home safe.
1. Replace white vinyl dryer tubing with aluminum tubing.
Flexible white vinyl tubing is highly restrictive and does not meet federal fire safety standards. Additionally, use straight vent tubing in lieu of elbowed pieces as much as possible.
2. Remove lint filter (a.k.a. lint trap or lint screen) from the lint filter after every cycle.
Every season, use a long-handle brush or vacuum attachment to remove lint from the filter’s chute, too.
3. Clear the dryer venting tube.
Your dryer’s entire venting system should be cleaned out from inside of the dryer to the outside vent cap at least once per year. Professionals can be hired for this job. But it’s usually a simple do-it-yourself job. Our bestselling 20-foot cleaning brush enables you to easily remove lint buildup from within the entire tube.
4. Clean the dryer’s interior.
Even if you’re a dedicated to lint filter maintenance, it’s common for lint to build up within the dryer, too. Lint buildup on the motor and heat source is a fire risk. Once per year, disassemble the dryer and use a vacuum and a long vacuum hose attachment to clean out the lint.
5. Pay attention to drying time.
If it’s taking longer for clothes to dry, it’s likely that lint is clogging the venting system. A thorough cleanout should happen a.s.a.p.
For extra precaution, consider Lint Alert. It monitors for lint build-up and other blockage – alerting you if there is air flow restriction in your dryer. Does it work? Consumer Reports says yes.
P.S. Of course, it’s ALWAYS important to periodically test your home’s smoke detectors.
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