Your clothes dryer makes doing laundry quicker and more convenient. Unfortunately, without proper maintenance, you could end up with wet clothes and the need for professional dryer repairs. Follow these guidelines to keep your appliance in optimal condition.

Do: 

Keep the area around the appliance clear.

The dryer creates a large amount of heat during each cycle, so clear any fire hazards away from the appliance. Store flammable items like chemicals, pressurized cans, cleaning supplies, and paint far away from the area.

Sweep up dust, pet hair, and other debris from the open spaces between the appliance and the wall. This will allow plenty of airflow around the machine and avoid overheating. 

Clean often.

Just because you throw freshly washed clothes into the dryer doesn’t mean it never needs cleaning. The appliance collects lint during every cycle, and you should clean the screen after every use by pulling off the accumulated debris.

Lint buildup will cause the dryer to work harder and decrease its efficiency, which can inflate utility bills. It can also pose a fire hazard. 

You should also clean the duct system at least once a year. Over time, the ducts will collect dust, dirt, and debris, and clogged areas trap heat and moisture, which can lead to mold growth. A severely clogged system requires professional dryer repairs.

Don’t:

Add restricted items.

Avoid adding items containing foam, rubber, or plastic, as these materials can melt from the high heat. Don’t add articles that contain instructions to hang-dry them or clothing that has come into contact with flammable materials such as alcohol, gasoline, or oil.

You shouldn’t add items that are heavily soiled because the dirt can clog the system and require dryer repair. Always wash clothes before throwing them into the dryer.

Overload the dryer.

The clothing in your dryer needs plenty of room to tumble and spin with consistent airflow to dry properly. Avoid filling the appliance more than halfway to make sure there’s plenty of space. Heavy loads force the machine to work harder, diminishing the lifespan of the appliance and increasing utility bills.

If you need dryer repairs, contact Carolina Appliance Service in Matthews, NC. They’ve provided quality service and easy fixes since 1993. They work with a variety of appliances, including dryers, washers, refrigerators, and stoves. Visit them online to see their full list of services, or call (704) 847-0004 to speak with a professional.