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7 Ways to Avoid Dryer a Fire

Dryer problems cause thousands of fires every year. The leading cause of dryer fires is a failure to clean. We've responded to thousands of fire-damaged homes over the years, many of them listing the home's dryer as the source. 

Routine maintenance will help extend the life of your appliance and reduce energy usage. Not only will your clothes dry faster, saving you time and money but also reducing the likelihood of a fire. These 7 tips will help keep your home and family safe and thwart dryer fire damage.

Dryer Fire Prevention Tips:

  • Clean the lint trap before and after each load of laundry. Lint buildup is one of the quickest ways to start a fire
  • Regularly vacuum the lint and debris from the damper, exhaust ducting, and inside your dryer. If you notice the time it takes to dry a load of clothing is longer than usual or coming out hotter than normal, it may be time for a deep clean!
  • Don't overload the dryer with clothes. This takes the load longer to dry and puts additional strain on the appliance, potentially overheating the unit. 
  • Never run the dryer when you are not home or sleeping. 
  • Electrical issues are also a contributing cause of dryer fires. Plug only the dryer into the outlet to avoid overloading the circuit (the same goes for all major appliances). 
  • Gas dryers should be inspected and maintained by a licensed professional.
  • Check venting tubes for cracks and leaks that could decrease the airflow.
  • Keep the exterior vent and damper clear of landscaping debris and snow buildup.

To prevent dryer fire damage, regularly clean and maintain your appliances. But if the worst does happen, ServiceMaster Dynamic Cleaning is here to help. Call (800) 865-5157 or contact us now. Our fire damage restoration services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We have the professional expertise, technology, and resources to clean and restore your property after a fire.

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