Did you know there are approximately 25,000 dryer fires every year in North America, and most of them occur because lint builds up in the dryer or the exhaust duct?

A lint-clogged exhaust duct can also push warm, moist air into your wall cavities and attic, encouraging mold growth and potentially starting a fire! Here are some tips for preventing lint fires.

 Remember to clean the lint screen before or after drying each load of laundry.

 Using a vacuum attachment, vacuum out the lint screen housing.

 Carefully pull the dryer away from the wall and remove the duct that connects your dryer to the duct in your wall. Vacuum out the back of the dryer, the dryer duct, and the wall duct as much as possible, using a long vacuum attachment. Take care when reattaching the duct and pushing the dryer back into place that the duct does not detach from the wall or dryer, and that it doesn’t kink or crush.

 Clean the dryer vent cover on the outside of your home by removing any blockage and lint. Vacuum out the vent as far as you can using a long vacuum attachment. Turn the dryer on when you are finished and make sure that you feel the exhaust air from the dryer exiting your home.

 Keep the area around the dryer clean and free of clutter. If you suspect the vent has built up lint that you can’t get out, remove and replace the vent with a new piece.

To view and download my September Newsletter full of great tips and articles click here:  september-newsletter-matt