Clothes Dryers Are Major Engergy Hogs
A clothes dryer is one of the major energy consumers in most homes. If it, or its venting system, is not working properly, it can really increase your utility bills year-round. It uses energy for heat and to operate the motor, plus it draws already-heated air from your home.
It sounds as though the old outdoor dryer vent is the first place to check. If it does not close completely when the dryer goes off, this may cause chilly, drafty conditions in your laundry room. When it does not close during winter, there is a direct path for cold air (warm, humid air during summer) into your house. This may also allow allergens and insects into your home.
If the dryer vent cover is stuck in a partially opened position, it restricts the necessary air flow through the dryer. This increases the drying time significantly. Also check the path of the flexible duct from the dryer to the outdoor cover. If you have pushed your dryer too far back against the wall, the duct may get crimped. Just a sharp bend can reduce air flow.
Reduced air flow through the dryer duct can result in a build up of lint which further reduces the air flow. With the reduced air flow, the air temperature can increase to the point of starting a lint fire. While you are inspecting the duct and outdoor cover, clean out any lint to be safe.
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Dryer Lint Filter Safety Concern
Cleaning the lint filter after completion of a dryer load is part of the regular care and maintenance of your appliance. This will not only ensure continued optimum performance, but will reduce the risk of fire in your home.
When your lint filter becomes plugged, it restricts the outflow of heated air, which can cause your dryer to become overheated. This can increase the risk of fire starting in your dryer.
The remedy of course, is to ensure the lint filter is cleaned out regularly, and that there are no obstructions to the outflow of heated air.
However, according to Fire Chief Ken Benoit of the Terrace Bay Fire Department, another fire concern related to dryer filters has recently surfaced. Even though the lint has been removed and the filter appears to be clean, certain fabric sheets used in the drying cycle, can cause a thin clear film to develop on the filter, forming a barrier which restricts the air from properly exhausting from your dryer.
A quick test to see whether this film exists, is to take your filter to a sink and run water into it, while observing whether the flow can easily pass through the mesh, or just pools in the filter. If the flow is unable to pass through – a thorough filter cleaning is required.
Use a very soft nylon brush and warm soapy water to clean your filter, and repeat the above test – the flow should no longer be restricted. Repeat this cleaning every six months.
Just a simple test and a few minutes of cleaning can go a long way to keeping your family safe.
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Call 301 871-2250 now to schedule a dryer duct inspection.
Call Toll Free 1 866 4AIRWIZ ( 1 866 424-7949 )
In Virginia Call 703 297-8200
