Dyers and lint build-up are a lethal combination. It causes thousands of residential fires across the U.S. and Canada every year.
Fortunately, there are simple ways to keep your family safe and prevent a fire in your home.
1. Replace white vinyl dryer tubing with aluminum tubing.
Flexible white vinyl tubing is highly restrictive and does not meet federal fire safety standards.
2. Remove lint from the lint filter (a.k.a. lint trap or lint screen) after every cycle.
Yes, every cycle. It’s important. Also, 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 the 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 good about removing lint from the filter after every load, it’s common for lint to build up within the dryer, too. 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 and a thorough cleanout should happen a.s.a.p.
If you have a gas dryer, 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
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Have a safe and happy autumn!
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