There are many items that we use everyday which could be a potential hazard in our health and home. One of these appliances that we use regularly that may cause risk is the dryer. Many people are not aware of the possible dangers that dryers may impose to their lives. It is necessary to inspect your dryer regularly of excessive heat or blockage to spotting basic indications of your dryer’s poor performance. Two indications that your dryer may be clogged are clothes are hotter than normal after every cycle and heavy items like towels and pants take longer time to dry. Dryer fires may also happen due to unclean vents, lint build up and obstruction with the dryer.
Follow these safety guidelines to keep your dryer risk free:
- If you are not 100% sure of how to install your dryer, hire a professional to install it for you. This is the best way to ensure that everything is done correctly, properly and safely. If you persist on installing them by yourself, follow the manual that comes along with the dryer and make sure you do everything it says.
- Keep your dryer vent clean. Avoid lint build up as well as other debris as this may cause a fire. Clean the lint filter regularly after every use and put it back properly always. Disconnect the duct and then clean it using a vacuum or you may hire a professional to do the cleaning to ensure that everything has been taken care of.
- Never dry clothes that have oil spill or anything flammable. The heat inside the dryer may cause it to spark even after washing them. Air-dry them instead to prevent dangers.
- Ensure that you plug the dryer to an outlet that can carry the total load. Avoid using extension cords for dryers.
- Maintain a clean area near your dryer and do not stack clothes and other items on top of the dryer.
- Avoid leaving your dryer unattended while operating.
- As much as possible, install a smoke detector in your laundry area to know if fire has started.
- Always turn off your dryer as soon as you finish working with them.