Clean the Dryer Lint Filter to Prevent Fires

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can even cause injury or death.

To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your home, SERVPRO can help clean vents and ducts that may have lint build-up.

Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) include cleaning the lint filter before and after each load and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not restricted by obstacles. Do not use a dryer that does not have a lint filter.

Your first hint that you need to check your vents is when your clothing doesn’t dry after a normal drying cycle.

Other hints include a musty odor in the clothing following the drying cycle, clothes that seem unusually hot to the touch, or excessive heat in the laundry room.

If you would like your dryer vent cleaned to minimize risk of fires or you have sustained smoke or file damage from a dryer fire, call SERVPRO today to schedule a free inspection!