A few years ago I went through a survivor class and the instructor shared a few must haves to carry in a survivor pack in the event we were ever lost or stranded in the woods. Along with the obvious tools he encouraged us to pack dryer lint into a waterproof container in case we needed tender to start a fire. I started to think about the volume of laundry our home processes annually… and the dryer lint and debris associated with all that laundry. The truth is that the lint and fabric debris from our clothes dryers is HIGHLY FLAMMABLE and can build up over time in the dryer vents. As vents gradually clog the air flow to the dryer can be reduced and exhaust gases can back up potentially creating a hidden fire hazard.
As a parent I continually look for ways my son can contribute to the daily chores and laundry duty was one of the first jobs we entrusted him with. I would encourage parents to check behind their children regularly to insure lint traps are cleaned out after every cycle. Lint and debris fills traps quickly and in short order can begin lining the exhaust vents restricting the air flow. Adult supervision also insures acknowledgement of the warning signs associated with dryers not working and venting properly. Some of the laundry room “red flags” to inspect dryers include:
- Unpleasant, musty odors in clothing and dryer sheets after the drying cycle.
- Drying times exceed 40 minutes or manufacturers suggested drying time.
- Clothing is extremely hot after the drying cycle.
- Clothing fails to completely dry.
- Excessive build up of lint and debris inside the dryer or lint trap.
- Excessive heat in the laundry room.
Knowing the warning signs help prevent the fire risk clogged dryer vents can create in our homes. Cleaning dryer vents annually will reduce the risk of gas leaks and prevent fires. Heavy loads can cause appliances to shift and potentially damage or disconnect transition vents. I recommend posting a service log near the dryer as a record and reminder of dryer vent cleanings.
