As realtors in the Denver area, we have made many friends. It is not uncommon to have past clients reach out, share updates, and become part of our lives. Sometimes the stories are wonderful and uplifting, but other times they can be sad. As we approach spring I wanted to highlight an item that often gets overlooked in our cleaning lists: the dryer vents. While most of us hear that we need to clean out the dryer lint, rarely do we actually do it. This can be a very dangerous oversight.
Your Family is the Most Important
In 2010, the National Fire Prevention Agency announced that nearly 16,800 dryer and washing machine fires caused 51 deaths, over 380 injuries and approximately $236,000,000 in property damages. Yes these statistics are almost six years old, but when is the last time you cleaned, let alone checked, your dryer vents? Lint is one of the most flammable items in your house and combined with our low humidity environment it is literally a volatile situation.
What You Need to Do
First and foremost, ditch the white plastic dryer vents and replace with metallic vent pipes with UL listing. While the white plastic is easy to install and control, it allows more buildup and restricts airflow. In addition, if there is a fire the plastic starts on fire as well, spreading it more quickly. When replacing the pipe to the wall vent, make sure you don’t use extra pipe. The shortest pipe is the safest.
Clean your vents and dryer at least once a year and spring is a great time. During the fall and winter we tend to do larger and more loads of laundry. This creates more lint, especially from heavier sweaters, ski gear and cold weather gear. Remove the vent pipe and clean it out. You should also reach into the hole in the back of your dryer and clean or vacuum it out as well. Make sure you unplug the dryer first.
Go Outside to Protect the Inside
You will also want to go outside and check to make sure the dryer is venting properly. The vent flap should be opening wide when the dryer is in operation and there should not be a lint build up. If there is a lint build up, you may want to hire a professional to clean the vents or do it yourself. Never use a dryer without a lint trap, and make sure it is cleaned after every load. Also wash the lint trap in soapy water at least once a month to reduce fabric softener build up.
So Now I have ALL this Lint
We have you covered. Stuff the lint in used toilet paper rolls and put inside a plastic storage bag. Then bring it when you go camping. If you haven’t already figured it out, it is a great fire starter because it burns hot and lights easily and is quicker than finding twigs. You can also make dryer link clay – see how here. This may help get the kids involved in the cleaning process. In fact, make some dryer lint clay creations and email them to us and we may use them in a future post. You could be famous!
We Love our Clients
I will admit, cleaning out a dryer vent pipe is not my idea of fun, but when I look at my children I know that it is important. We want you and your entire family to be safe and I hope this post will help you understand the value of this little chore. An added benefit is if you keep track of your cleaning schedule, it can be an additional positive attribute added to your home when it’s time to sell. So be safe, get it done, and keep on enjoying your Denver home.