If you’re a homeowner, you probably rely on your dryer every day to complete chores. Did you know that clogged dryer vents cause over 15,000 residential fires each year in the United States?
Mistakes happen, but you can prevent dryer fires by being aware of common errors and knowing the correct ways to use your machine. Today, the pros at Superior Air Duct Cleaning look at 5 mistakes often made with your dryer.
1) Drying the Wrong Items
Before drying your next load, be sure to remove everything from your pockets. Plastic, rubber, and foam materials left in the dryer can cause fires. Also, pens can leak on your clothes and metal objects such as paper clips may damage the inside of the dryer. It’s best to air dry bathroom rugs as well. If you’re uncertain about whether drying an item is safe or not, lean on the side of caution.
Related Post: 4 Signs That You Need a New Dryer
2) Ignoring the Dryer Vent Pipe
When you leave lint in the dryer, you can cause a multitude of problems. First, lint slows down the drying process, which lowers the appliances’ efficiency. Lint buildup also affects airflow and may cause the dryer to overheat, creating a risk for dryer fires. Check your dryer vent pipe for lint that accumulates and have your pipes cleaned every 6-12 months. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you can use a vacuum to do this yourself.
Related Post: Why Professional Dryer Duct Cleaning Is Necessary
3) Not Cleaning Moisture Sensors
While you are cleaning out lint, it’s equally important to clean the moisture sensors in the dryer drum. The more you use dryer sheets, the greater the chances are for a chemical layer to develop on the sensors. Simply use soap and a towel to clean the sensors.
4) Not Cleaning the Area Around the Dryer
As dryers pull air from the surrounding area, it’s important to keep the floor around a dryer clean. Dusting or vacuuming regularly can eliminate lint that lands behind the dryer. You never know — you may discover a missing pair of socks back there too.
5) Neglecting to Sort Clothes
Instead of crowding many washing loads at once in your dryer, sort out your sweaters and jeans. Check labels on the tags of your clothes to ensure the correct drying cycles. For example, cotton t-shirts will likely shrink on high heat. Also, avoid overloading the dryer. The extra weight can wear down your machine.
Contact Us About Dryer Duct Cleaning
Has it been a while since your last dryer duct cleaning? At Superior Air Duct Cleaning, we’ll make sure your dryer ducts are safe and clean. Our complete, thorough cleaning will put your mind at ease knowing your house is safeguarded. Don’t let lint build up your vents. Contact us in western PA or eastern OH for your next dryer duct cleaning service.
