Lint Control for Fire Safety

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Lint Fire Prevention Steps

Not only does lint buildup reduce the effectiveness of your dryer, it can pose a serious fire hazard. Residents of Belleair, FL, should be aware of the following lint fire prevention steps.

1. Cleaning the Trap

The first and most effective piece of advice is to maintain the dryer itself. Clean the lint trap after every use by scraping a small piece of lint into a ball and dragging the clump into every corner of the trap. Moistening your hands or the trap can help to reduce the number of lint particles that get into the air. Also be sure to check the lint trap slot, as this can be another source of fiber accumulation that can result in a dryer fire. Use detergent or alcohol periodically to clean these crevices within the dryer as well as the surrounding floor.

2. The Hose Connection

Around once a year, you should unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall in order to maintain the hose and outlet. Lint can become trapped after it exits the dryer, creating another potential source of ignition and fire damage. Remove the screw-on clasps connecting the flexible hose to the dryer and the wall. Inspect the hose for damage, and replace it if the outer metal coating shows holes or other obvious wear and tear. Otherwise, simply clean the hose with a wet cloth or wide brush to remove buildup that could result in lint fire.

3. The Wall and Exterior

The final step is tricky, but still needs occasional attention. Since the wall pipe that leads outside is fixed, the usual cleaning method involves a power drill attachment with a rotating brush. These are available at most hardware stores. The exterior vent should be cleaned by hand to remove any residue.

A thorough inspection of the various pieces of your home dryer system can prevent a lint fire and the need for professional fire restoration.