Halifax firefighters respond to an average of 10 dryer fires every year. Although some fires result in minor smoke damage, others can destroy entire homes. Maintaining and caring for your dryer can help prevent you from making a home insurance claim that could increase your future premiums. Here are seven dryer maintenance tips.
1. Keep the lint screen clean Remove and clean the dryer’s lint screen before every load. Preventing lint buildup in and around the dryer is crucial because most dryer fires start when lint clogs the motor, thermostat or other electrical components. Moreover, every month, use a vacuum to clean the space inside the dryer where your lint screen goes. 2. Clean the interior Every few months, unplug your dryer and wipe down the inside of the drum, the door and the appliance’s exterior with a damp cloth. 3. Vacuum underneath and around the dryer Keep the area around your dryer clean and free from dirt and dust. Regularly sweep or vacuum around and underneath your dryer. 4. Ensure your dryer is level If your dryer shakes or moves while operating, it may not be level. Adjust the feet at the dryer’s base until it sits level. A dryer that’s off-balance can cause the machine to prematurely wear out. 5. Check the exterior exhaust Go outside and check your dryer’s exhaust vent to ensure it’s clear of debris and lint. Additionally, ensure there aren’t any flowers, shrubs or snowbanks blocking it. 6. Dry clothes while you’re home Don’t put a load of wet clothes in the dryer before going out or going to bed. A dryer fire can happen at any time and, if not caught early, can lead to catastrophic damage. 7. Keep the dryer duct clean Ensure the flexible metal hose that connects your dryer to the exterior exhaust vent is clean and allows hot air to flow through. Remove any sharp bends or kinks in the duct where lint can accumulate. Replace the duct if necessary. A clogged dryer duct is a high-risk factor for house fires. Follow these tips to reduce the risk of a dryer fire. Home insurance in Nova Scotia At Eisenhauer Insurance Inc., our brokers can set you up with a comprehensive home insurance policy that’ll protect you against the financial impacts of a house fire. We work with several respected insurance companies to offer Nova Scotia homeowners the best policies for any budget. We also offer automobile and travellers insurance. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.