Is your dryer a fire hazard?

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 17,000 clothes dryer fires are reported yearly.  These dryers, on average, cause about 51 deaths, 380 injuries, and $236 million in property loss.  The leading cause of these types of fires, 34%, is failure to clean the dryer vents.

Why are dryer vents the leading cause of clothes dryer-related fires? 

While cleaning the lint filter in your dryer does lower the risk of starting a fire, it doesn't abolish it completely.  Despite common belief, lint filters don't catch everything.  Lint tends to get trapped in the vent connected to your dryer.  This vent heats up every time your dryer is being used and with nowhere for the trapped lint to escape the heat, it becomes a fire hazard.  That is why professionals recommend getting your dryer vents cleaned at least once a year.

How do I know when my vents need to be cleaned?

There are a few obvious signs that appear when your vents need to be cleaned.  This includes: 

• Clothes taking longer than normal to dry
• Clothes are unusually hot to the touch when cycle is over
• The laundry room heats up when the dryer is in use
• Burning smells
• Dryer stops working
• Vent flap isn't opening

If any of these signs occur when partaking in your normal laundry routine, it may be time to call in a professional to make sure everything is clean and clear.  Fortunately, our team at SERVPRO of Parker and Northeast Hood Counties is trained and experienced in this field.  If you notice any of these things happening or if it has been over a year since your last vent cleaning, give us a call! 817-596-8714