Poorly Installed Dryer Vent Systems are Fire Hazards

Proper dryer vent installation is essential to promote air flow and keep the dryer operating safely and efficiently. Poorly installed dryer vent systems are fire hazards.

Marlborough, MA: A poorly installed dryer vent system was the cause of the fire that caused extensive damage to a two-family home. Whoever installed the dryer left a gas valve open; gas escaped into the home and ignited.

Ware, Mass: An improperly installed dryer vent system caused a fire that left five people homeless. The call came in shortly after 1:00am, but firefighters remained on the scent until around 8:00am. The volume of the fire and concerns for the safety of the crew resulted in the fire department calling a second alarm and receiving aid form neighboring communities. Damages were estimated to be over $150,000.

Dryer vent cleaning is the number one preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of dryer related fires. The US Fire Administration reports over 15,000 dryer fires annually. Failure to clean dryer vents is the leading contributor to clothes dryer fires. Here are some tips for maintaining your dryer vent system:

• Keep the lint screen clean between loads
• Wash lint screens monthly with soap and water to remove residue buildup from dryer sheets
• Avoid drying fabrics soaked in combustible substances
• Do not store flammable items near your dryer
• Have professional dryer vent cleaning done annually
• Make sure the dryer vent system is up to code according to city, state, and manufacturer requirements
• Replace vinyl or flexible foil dryer ducts with aluminum
• Frequently check outside vent cover for signs of blockage, freezing, or damage

Have you ever had your dryer vent cleaned? If not, then it would be a good idea to have a dryer exhaust specialist inspect your dryer vent system to be sure it is safe and efficient. Besides being a fire hazard, a faulty dryer vent system can increase your energy bills and lead to premature appliance breakdown. Dryer vent cleaning extends the life of your clothes dryer and ensures that it is working safely and efficiently.

Webb Dickson of Dryer Vent Wizard provides dryer vent cleaning, dryer vent repair, dryer vent installation, dryer vent inspections and all dryer vent services for homes and businesses in New Hampshire, Nashua, Manchester, Concord, Portsmouth, Derry, Bedford, Keene, Milford, Middlesex and Essex County, Massachusetts, Billerica, Burlington, Westford, Concord, Stow, Marlborough, Natick, Hopkinton, Framingham, Gloucester, Middleton, Newburyport, Haverhill, Lawrence, Beverly and neighboring cities and communities.

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