Personal Insurance Blog

Resulting damage from dryer fires are a major type of homeowner claim. They can also pose a safety hazard since they are a type of ‘set it and forget it’ appliance. According to Underwriters Laboratory, 15,000 dryer fires occur each year in the United States.

A common cause of dryer fires is a full lint filter. A full lint filter can cause the dryer to work harder and run hotter, causing a fire to the clothes inside. The lint filter or trap should be cleaned after every laundry load.

Another cause is dirty vent systems. Lint that collects in the vent system, (the ducts) can block the airflow and also cause a fire.

Dryer fires can also occur if the wrong item is placed inside a dryer. Always make sure that clothes pockets are emptied before placing in the dryer. UL Laboratories advises against rubber soled shoes, plastic items, foam-backed rugs, and clothing that have been soiled with flammable materials (even cooking oil).

Some words of caution and helpful tips:

•          Use metal dryer ducts, either solid or flexible. Do not use plastic ducts. Plastic ducts are even not permitted in certain states.
•          Clean the duct regularly, in its entirely from the dryer to the outside of the house. Home improvement stores sell lint wands and duct cleaning tools. If this is not possible, have your ducts professionally cleaned, it’s a great investment!
•          Clean the lint trap after every laundry load.
•          Clean all around the dryer (outside and in) where lint can potentially build up
•          Use caution drying clothes stained with chemicals such as gasoline, paints,etc.   

Following the above tips can save you energy, insurance claims and even your life.

Contact us with any questions, we love hearing from you! For more info on home safety and fire claim tips, check out our website! Check out these hot blogs on fire prevention and homeowners insurance:

-Adding Fuel to the Fire

-House Insurance: Fire Damage