Clothes Dryer Safety and Energy Tips
Amy Newcomer • May 2, 2024
Did you know that dryers are the second highest energy-consuming appliance in most homes? And lint build-up is one of the major causes of the over 15,000 dryer fires that occur each year.
This article gives you tips for keeping your dryer safe and for saving energy too.
Why Is Dryer Care So Important?
Washing and drying clothes is not typically a task that most people enjoy. It never ends, and if you have a large family, your washer and dryer are likely running constantly. And a dryer takes a lot of energy to operate. The annual cost for operating a clothes dryer is about $85 a year and can go up to $170 a year depending on the frequency of its usage. In most homes, the only household appliance consuming more energy is the refrigerator. Further, your dryer is an expensive item to replace, and as we mentioned above, the risk of a dryer fire is all too real.
The good news is that there are things that you can do to keep your dryer operating safely, reduce energy consumption and extend its useful life. So read on.
Safety Tips
You may have heard the truly scary stories of clothes dryer catching fire because of lint accumulation. Here are some things you should do for the safety of your dryer.
- The first is to clean your dryer's lint filter trap after each load. In addition to helping keep your dryer safe, it also helps keep it performing efficiently.
- Clean your vent pipe of lint. Also, check your vent pipe. It is recommended that you use the straightest and shortest duct available. Flexible ducts can be a potential safety concern as they can be crushed or restrict the airflow, and may not be able to withstand high temperatures from the dryer.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in the same room as the clothes dryer, near the door where you can access easily in an emergency.
- If you are not confident of how to properly clean your dryer, check your vent pipe, etc., then do not hesitate to call in a professional to give your clothes dryer a thorough cleaning and inspection.
When designing your home, each room requires its own lighting approach — and the dining room is no exception. Choosing the Right Light for Your Dining Table Start by deciding where your dining table will sit in the room. Positioning the fixture above the table is far easier than trying to adjust the furniture later. In many cases, the lighting should be centered over the table, even if that means it isn’t centered within the room itself. Good lighting enhances both the function and style of your dining space. With the right placement and fixture, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements your décor.
Keeping your home in good condition requires staying on top of routine maintenance — and changing your air filters is one task you shouldn’t overlook. When filters go too long without being replaced, your HVAC system becomes less efficient, leading to higher heating and cooling bills. It can also put extra strain on the system, increasing the risk of clogs or breakdowns. To prevent these problems, be sure to replace air filters regularly and schedule professional HVAC servicing at least once a year. Need guidance on maintaining your system? Contact us for help.
If you’re preparing to sell your home, adding features that raise its value is always a smart move. One upgrade many sellers overlook is installing a fireplace. In today’s real estate market, fireplaces are highly appealing, and homes that include them often list for about 13% more than the national median sale price. Gas fireplaces, in particular, are especially popular right now thanks to their convenience and modern style. Choosing a gas option could give your property an even stronger advantage when it hits the market. Not sure if a fireplace is the right investment for your home? Reach out to us for guidance.
Wishing you and yours a relaxing and Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Cloud's Home Inspections.
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