How does a dryer work?
A clothes dryer works by forcing hot air through a turning drum. Wet clothes are placed in the drum and then dried by moving hot air.
Lint, consisting of small fibers from the clothes, is created from the clothes as they tumble.
While much of the lint is trapped in the filter, some is carried along through the vent system.
Do your part!
Read the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings and care instructions for your dryer.
Have your clothes dryer installed by qualified personnel. Professionals can ensure the proper installation of your dryer and will be knowledgeable about the different kinds of units.
Clean the filter before and after each cycle. Do not forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up. In addition, clean the lint filter every 6 months with a nylon brush.
The interior of the dryer and venting system should be serviced and cleaned periodically.
Check occasionally to make sure nests of small animals and insects are not blocking the outside vent.
Do not...
Do not store cleaning products, boxes and baskets of clothing around the dryer because they can cause a fire to start.
Do not dry anything containing foam, rubber or plastic like bath-room rugs or tennis shoes.
Do not leave a clothes dryer running if you leave home or when you go to bed.
Do not run a dryer without the lint filter, as this is your built-in defense against lint build up.
Do not overload. A heavy load of clothing is too hard on the dryer. It can cause parts to work overtime producing higher than average temperatures which can cause a fire.
A fire will change your life in ways that you cannot even begin to imagine. Fire safety starts with you, so practice fire safety every day.
Cinda Seamon is the Fire and Life Safety Educator for Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue.
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