We often hear about fires in Montreal caused by running dryers. But what causes these fires and how can you avoid being a victim of such an unfortunate event?
How does a dryer work?
First off, a dryer is a spinning tub that heated air flows through to remove moisture from the various types of textiles inside. Air is vented through the machine and exits through the air ducts at the back of the machine into the vent of your home leading to the outside of your house. The air is heated by an element similar to the ones you see in your oven.
How can this process cause a fire?
Washing and drying your clothing causes a lint build-up that is expelled through the ventilation system of your dryer and its attached duct leading to the exterior of your home. As more lint accumulates and blocks the path of ventilation, more lint accumulates inside the dryer as well, eventually piling up near the element. When the circumstances are right, the lint catches fire and the fire can easily spread to surrounding walls and ceilings.
How can you avoid a dangerous fire in your home?
Always clean out the lint trap of your dryer before every use. This reduces the chance of build-up inside the dryer.
Get the dryer ducts that lead to the outside of your home cleaned out yearly.
Request that your appliance repair technician does full maintenance of your dryer, which includes opening it up and vacuuming the lint build-up inside the mainframe.
How can you tell if you have a clogged dryer vent?
Clothes are taking longer to dry or don't fully dry in one cycle
Clothes are hotter than usual at the end of the drying cycle
The outer shell of the dryer gets very hot
Outside exhaust vent flapper does not open very much because of low airflow
There is a burning smell during drying cycles
If you aren’t sure, a technician at Flash Repair will be able to let you know if your dryer vent is having problems. Call our friendly receptionists for more information.