How to Ensure a Safe and Efficient Clothes Dryer
Always have dryer installation carried out by a licensed professional.
A quality clothes dryer ensures clean, dry clothes, usually within an hour. However, these machines only work efficiently when they're well-maintained. Furthermore, homeowners should always remember that dryers are a fire hazard, but proper maintenance greatly reduces this risk. Whether gas or electric, a dryer works safely and effectively with the following steps and routines.
Hire quality dryer installation
Always have dryer installation carried out by a licensed professional. These experts ensure the electrical or gas supply, ductwork, and ventilation comply with the most up-to-date building codes. If these installation steps aren't given adequate care, the dryer is unlikely to work correctly, waste energy, and even become a safety hazard. When the installation is complete, check that ductwork is made of a smooth metal with a short and direct route to the outside air to ensure the job has been done correctly.
Take care with fabrics
The type of fabrics used in a dryer can pose a fire safety hazard, as some fabrics are flammable, and dryers provide heat. Never dry fabrics that have been in contact with combustible liquids, even after washing; once contact has been made, the garment should never enter the dryer. Additionally, every dryer should have a lint screen, which should be cleaned after every load, as lint is flammable.
Regular maintenance
Check the outdoor dryer vent flap in the winter and summer for potential blockages, such as piles of snow, leaves, shrubbery, or nests, as these blockages can damage the machine, cause energy inefficiency, and may even cause the dryer to overheat, posing a significant safety risk. Have a professional inspect and clean dryer ducts and the dryer cabinet's interior annually to ensure all parts function correctly and efficiently.
Pay close attention to cycles
Be aware of changes in the length of time the dryer takes for an average load. If the dryer takes too long for a drying cycle or isn't producing sufficient heat, stop using it immediately, as this could be a sign of a blockage or an electrical issue. Book an inspection and repair to ensure the issue is not a safety hazard.
It's easy to forget the risk dryers pose, as they're a common household appliance often used daily. However, homeowners should never forget the amount of energy dryers consume and that they can quickly become a threat to fire safety. Following these maintenance tips ensures that a dryer is safe and running efficiently so homeowners can do their laundry worry-free.
Freedom Appliance of Tampa Bay has 13 years experience in professional repair and installation of all laundry and kitchen appliances and dryer duct cleaning. Call 813-302-7672 today!