Regularly clean dryer vents to prevent a fire hazard

Posted September 10, 2012 at 7:50 PM, Filed Under: Community News, Front Page, Village Mill

October is National Fire Prevention Month and dryer vent expert George Hostetler advises homeowners to play it safe and be vigilant about checking their clothes dryer vents as part of their home fire prevention plans, especially if you live in an older home.

“When an older home was built, and the appliances were installed, there were very different safety codes in place,” says Hostetler. “Back then vinyl or flexible foil vents were commonly used for dryer vent systems. Over the years it has been determined that these flammable materials are not safe for venting your clothes dryer.”

A dryer exhaust specialist can inspect your dryer vent system and make necessary upgrades to ensure your dryer is operating safely and efficiently.

In 2006, an estimated 17,700 reported U.S. home structure fires involving clothes dryers resulted in an estimated 15 deaths, 360 injuries, and $194 million in direct property damage.

Here are some tips to consider for dryer basics.
• Never leave home or go to bed with the dryer running.
• Ensure that the dryer has access to air leaving doors open so air can freely move into the dryer.
• Ensure that you know where the dryer vent exhausts to the exterior and that the dampers are work-
ing properly.
• Clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you at least once a year, or more often, if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry.

Editor’s note: George Hostetler is owner of Dryer Vent Wizard.