Is Your Dryer A Fire Hazard

Maintain Your Dryer

Every year, approximately 15,000 fires* are caused by lint buildup in dryers. Lint, which is highly combustible, must be cleaned from the lint filter after each load to allow air to circulate freely through the dryer.  

Some tips to avoid lint and dust buildup:

• Periodically clean the back of the dryer where lint can be trapped in the venting system as well as around the electrical outlet twice a year.
• Occasionally remove the lint filter and clean it with a nylon brush and hot, soapy water.
• Keep the area around and on top of the dryer clean and free of clutter.
• Have a qualified service person clean the interior of the appliance and venting system once a year.
• Thoroughly clean the vent system if you notice your drying times have increased.
• Use rigid or semi-rigid sheet metal venting material, never plastic.
• For best dryer performance, use the shortest, straightest vent length possible, and use a louvered or box hood style to cap your vent outside.
• All dryers should be vented to the outside and be sure you can feel air flowing out of the vent to the outdoors when the dryer is on.
• Inspect the venting system behind the dryer and replace any pieces that are damaged or crushed.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the dryer and vent system.