The unknown fire hazard lurking in your Dutchess County home

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

A clogged dryer vent is more dangerous than most would think!

The weekly (or daily) task of getting the laundry done is not something we give too much thought to other than getting it out of the way, but according to Consumer Reports (2018), every year firefighters across the country respond to around 17,000 home fires caused by clothes dryers, according to the Building Performance Institute.

A whopping 34% of these fires is caused by an accumulation of lint, the simple task of cleaning the lint trap can set you up for a dangerous situation that can be far more serious than decreased performance caused by constricting a dryer's duct work.

Take a look at these best practices to ensure safety in the laundry room:

• Read the manufacturers’ instructions and warnings upon installation and be sure that your dryer is installed by a knowledgeable professional and that the correct electrical plug and outlet are used
• Clean the dryer lint filter before and after each load of laundry
• Clean the filter with a nylon brush at least once every six (6) months or more often if it becomes clogged.
• Completely clean lint out of the vent pipe every three (3) months.
• Check occasionally through the venting system behind the dryer to ensure it isn’t damaged.
• Put a cover on outside wall dampers to keep out the elements.
• Ensure the outdoor vent cover opens when the dryer is on.

• Consider having SERVPRO of Western Dutchess County clean your dryer venting. It’s easy, reasonably priced and will help ensure safety.

If you’re interested in scheduling a cleaning or if your family has experienced a fire of any kind and needs help restoring your home, SERVPRO® of Western Dutchess County can help 24/7! Give us call at 845-831-3600 to learn about our fire restoration services. We’ll make it Like it never even happened.