Dryer fires are not common, but they do occur. Dryer fires can be caused by faulty appliances, but lint buildup or improper venting are more common causes. Dryer lint can also be flammable, which can cause more damage to a dryer. We will discuss how to extinguish a dryer fire, as well as the most common causes. We also explain how to prevent them with the help of our fire damage experts at 911 Restoration of Washington DC.
How to Light a Dryer Fire
An ABC fire extinguisher is the best way to extinguish a dry fire. Pull the pin, then move the nozzle around the fire until it is out completely.
What to do if your dryer sets on fire?
These steps can be taken immediately if your dryer starts to catch fire.
- Transfer children and pets to a safe area
- You should not open the dryer as this could spread the flames.
- To put out a fire, use an ABC fire extinguisher
- If it is safe, unplug your dryer or turn off the power.
Call 911 immediately if the fire spreads to other rooms or it is impossible to put out. Then, close the laundry room door and leave the house. Keep at least 50 feet from your home while the fire department extinguishes the flames.
How to Prevent Dryer Fires
1. After every use, clean the lint trap
To prevent dryer fires, empty the lint trap at the end of each load. Before you start another one, make sure that it is empty. The lint trap should be cleaned out every few months.
2. The Filter should be inspected in the Rear
A majority of dryers have a lint trap at the back of the dryer, near the exhaust vent. Although the lint trap doesn’t require as much cleaning, the filter should be removed from the dryer and vacuumed.
3. Each year, clean the exhaust ductwork
The ductwork allows exhaust and moisture to vent. Lint can build up over time and cause ductwork to become clogged. It is time to take it apart and clean out all lint.
4. Clean the exterior exhaust hood
The exhaust hood is located outside your home and can also collect lint. You should inspect the vent at least once per year and clean it with a vacuum.
5. Do not overload your dryer
Overloading your dryer can make it work harder and build up heat. This can cause it to wear out quicker and increase the risk of sparks and overheating.
6. Don’t run your dryer when you aren’t at home or sleeping.
Although they are generally safe, it is best to not start your dryer before you leave the house or go to bed. A smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector should be installed and tested regularly.
7. Replacing Accordion Style Ductwork
Although accordion-style, ducts made from vinyl, foil, or plastic are very common and affordable, they are much more likely to ignite a dryer fire. Because there are fewer places where lint can collect, rigid metal ductwork works better.
8. Make sure you use the right materials
A four-inch diameter vent pipe made of metal is recommended for dryer ductwork. Duct tape is a better choice than screws that can collect lint. To increase airflow and reduce heat buildup, you can also use a 4-inch square exhaust hood.
9. Reduce the length of exhaust ductwork
When venting dryers, you should use the shortest ductwork length possible. Also, limit the number bends. This will increase airflow and decrease lint accumulation.
10. Avoid kinking the ductwork
Allow enough space behind the dryer to accommodate the ductwork. Avoid kinking it or crushing it. This can restrict airflow and cause the dryer to heat up. Install a recessed dryerbox if you want the dryerbox to be flush against your wall.
11. The Dryer can be vented outside
Exhaust ductwork should always be vented outside. Your dryer should never be vented to your basement or any other part of your home. Moisture vapor can lead to mold and the exhaust could contain carbon monoxide.
12. Get your Dryer Serviced
Your dryer should be serviced every couple of years. An inspection by a professional will verify that it is working correctly and help prevent dryer fires.
What are the signs that your clothes dryer could be starting a fire?
There are many signs that your dryer might start a fire. The biggest is a dryer drying for longer than usual. This is often caused by lint buildup. You may also notice other signs such as:
- After drying, clothes are hotter than normal
- After drying, your clothes will have a smokey odour.
- When it runs, sparks or sizzling sound are produced
- Any time there is gas around the dryer, it will smell.
- When the dryer is running, smoke will come out.
What causes dryer fires?
The majority of clothes dryer fires occur when the dryer overheats from lint buildup. Lint can buildup inside dryers and in the ventilation ductwork. Dryer lint can reduce airflow and is also flammable. It can ignite dryer lint if it is too hot. The flames could spread throughout your house.
What Are the Commonest Dryer Fires?
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that there are more than 5,100 clothes dryer fires each year. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 5,100 dryer fires occur each year. A dryer fire can happen at any moment, even though the likelihood of it is very low. It is possible to have a dryer fire if the dryer is old or damaged, and if you don’t regularly empty your lint trap.