Laundry is a weekly task in many households, and having a washer and dryer at home helps to make life much more convenient. However, it’s important to be aware that if a dryer isn’t properly used or maintained, the risk of a house fire significantly increases. According to the U. S. Fire Administration, about 2,900 dryer fires are reported every year, leading to $35 million in property damage. As such, in addition to scheduling regular service with a dryer repair and maintenance expert, it’s critical to follow the tips below to keep your home and family safe. 

How to Prevent a Dryer Fire 

1. Get a Professional Installation 

Whether you use an electric or gas dryer, it must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. This is vital for avoiding a fire. For this reason, it’s best to have a dryer repair and maintenance professional handle your installation needs. They’ll ensure you have the right electrical hook-ups or that your gas line is intact, as well as confirm you have adequate ventilation. 

2. Keep It Clean 

The leading cause of dryer fires is a failure to keep them clean. A thorough cleaning should be performed each year by your dryer repair and maintenance technician. Aside from this, it’s essential to clean the lint filter before or after every use and clean out the ventilation system periodically. Lint screens are meant to prevent lint from building up in a dryer’s vent and exhaust duct where it can become flammable. A clogged screen won’t be able to do its job.  

3. Avoid Overloading

The more clothes you put in the dryer, the longer it will need to run to fully dry them. As a result, your dryer will continue to get hotter and may reach a dangerously high temperature, which can cause a spark to ignite. Make sure you’re being cautious about how much you’re loading in the dryer at one time, and if necessary, split your laundry into smaller piles.  

Ensure your dryer is working at peak performance and reduce the risk of fire with the help of Expert Appliance Solutions in Elyria, OH. Their dryer repair and maintenance specialists can save you a great deal of time, money, and headache with high-quality workmanship. Backed by extensive industry experience, they provide effective and affordable solutions for extending the life of your current appliances or installing new ones. For an appointment, call (844) 423-9737, or visit them online to learn more about the services they offer residents throughout Lorain, Medina, and western Cuyahoga counties.